“For he himself is our peace, who has made the two groups one and has destroyed the barrier, the dividing wall of hostility, by setting aside in his flesh the law with its commands and regulations. His purpose was to create in himself one new humanity out of the two, thus making peace, and in one body to reconcile both of them to God through the cross, by which he put to death their hostility.” – Ephesians 2:14-16
Our fifth destination was an important port city in Asia Minor where western and eastern traders met. You will have the opportunity to get a taste of Ephesus’ many impressive ancient structures such as a large temple to Diana (Roman goddess of fertility) and an outdoor theatre that could seat 24 000 people.
Ephesus was Paul’s first stop of his third journey and stayed for about two years. Once again, Paul, who was in his fifties at the time, was rejected when he tried preaching at the Jewish synagogue; so he began teaching Gentiles at the lecture hall, which you will see as well. The many travelers visiting this city worked to Paul’s advantage, as they helped spread word of his teachings and miracles throughout the Roman province of Asia.
Although his spreading of the Word was quite successful, Paul made many enemies in Ephesus too. Ephesian magicians who claimed to be healers were jealous of Paul’s genuine miraculous abilities. Local silversmiths were also angry because the demand for their silver statues of the Greek god Diana plummeted when people converted to Christianity. Finally, the silversmiths and magicians’ protest became too overwhelming and Paul was forced to leave this Christian community and head west by boat, just as you will!
Other places included in the tour:
· The Church of St. John
· The Church of the Virgin Mary
· The Celsus Library
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