Bible Geography · Cyprus and Southern Asia Minor (Turkey) · c. AD 46–48
Paul's First Missionary Journey
Description
Paul's first missionary journey (c. AD 46–48) began in Antioch of Syria, traveled by sea to Cyprus, then north to Perga in Pamphylia, and through the southern highlands of Asia Minor visiting Pisidian Antioch, Iconium, Lystra, and Derbe before retracing the route back to Antioch. It was a journey of roughly 2,400 kilometers and resulted in the founding of multiple Gentile churches.
Significance
This first journey established the pattern of Pauline mission: beginning in the synagogue, then turning to Gentiles, enduring persecution, and appointing elders in each new church. The churches founded on this journey — in Galatia — were later addressed in Paul's letter to the Galatians, one of his most theologically foundational epistles.
Key Events
Paul and Barnabas were commissioned by the church at Antioch; they preached throughout Cyprus; Elymas the sorcerer was blinded; Paul's sermon at Pisidian Antioch was his first recorded sermon; Paul was stoned at Lystra and left for dead; churches were established in Derbe, Lystra, Iconium, and Pisidian Antioch.
Modern Context
The cities of Paul's first journey lie in modern Turkey and Cyprus. Pisidian Antioch (near modern Yalvaç), Iconium (modern Konya), Lystra (near modern Hatunsaray), and Derbe (near modern Kerti Höyük) can all be visited in Turkey. Cyprus remains a Christian-majority island with the Apostle Paul's pillar in Paphos still displayed.