Ephesus in the Time of Paul
Paul’s Connection to Ephesus
Ephesus was one of the most important cities in the early Christian story. Located on the western coast of Asia Minor (modern Turkey), it was a major center of trade, culture, and religion in the Roman world. The city was famous for the Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.
The apostle Paul visited Ephesus during his missionary journeys and spent a significant amount of time teaching there. According to the New Testament book of Acts, Paul stayed in the city for about two years, sharing the message of Jesus and helping establish a growing Christian community.
Ephesus later became the destination of one of Paul’s letters in the Bible. The Letter to the Ephesians opens with the greeting, “From Paul… to followers of Jesus living in Ephesus.” This letter encouraged believers and explained how followers of Jesus could live together in unity and faith.
A Key City of Early Christianity
Because of Paul’s work and the strong church that developed there, Ephesus became one of the most influential centers of Christianity in the first century. The city connected the Christian message to major trade routes that stretched across the Roman Empire.
This map highlights the region around Ephesus and the surrounding Mediterranean world. It helps readers understand where Paul traveled and how the early Christian message spread across the Roman world.
What You Get
- Custom-made for The Casual English Bible®
- Map showing Ephesus and the region of Paul’s ministry
- High-resolution PDF image (2000 pixels)
- Available for immediate download
- Licensing available for publication
