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Scripture Mapping

Geography — Acts 15

3 places

Where this chapter stands. The coastline is a schematic outline and the positions are approximate — enough to see how far Hebron is from Dan, not enough to navigate by. 1 of the locations below is not drawn: Syria and Cilicia. It is either not a place on a map, or somewhere scholars still disagree about.

  1. Antioch

    Physical features

    A major city in ancient Syria, located near the Orontes River.

    Historical context

    Antioch was a significant center for early Christianity and the starting point for Paul's missionary journeys.

    Cultural importance

    Known for its diverse population and as a hub of Hellenistic culture, Antioch was where followers of Jesus were first called Christians (Acts 11:26).

    Theological significance

    Antioch represents the spread of the Gospel to the Gentiles and the unity of Jewish and Gentile believers in Christ.

    Key verses
    Connected events

  2. Jerusalem

    Physical features

    A city set on a hill in the Judean mountains, historically the center of Jewish worship and governance.

    Historical context

    Jerusalem was the location of the early church's leadership and the site of the Jerusalem Council, which addressed the issue of Gentile circumcision.

    Cultural importance

    As the spiritual heart of Judaism, Jerusalem was where the apostles and elders gathered to discuss and resolve theological disputes.

    Theological significance

    Jerusalem symbolizes the continuity of God's covenant with Israel and the expansion of His covenant to include Gentiles through faith in Christ.

    Key verses
    Connected events

  3. Syria and Cilicia

    Physical features

    Regions in the eastern Mediterranean, with Syria being a Roman province and Cilicia located in modern-day Turkey.

    Historical context

    These regions were part of the areas where Paul and Barnabas had previously preached the Gospel.

    Cultural importance

    Syria and Cilicia were significant for the spread of Christianity beyond Jewish communities, reflecting the mission to the Gentiles.

    Theological significance

    The inclusion of these regions in the letter from the Jerusalem Council underscores the unity and shared faith among diverse believers.

    Key verses
    Connected events

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