The city of Derbe was located in the Lycaonian region of Asia Minor (modern Turkey), near the border with Galatia. It was visited by Paul on his first missionary journey after being stoned in Lystra, and revisited on his second journey.
Derbe stands as a monument to apostolic perseverance. After being stoned and dragged outside Lystra (Acts 14:19), Paul got up and walked the 60+ miles to Derbe — and preached the gospel there. This city became the home of Timothy's companion Gaius and represents the principle that God's messengers do not retreat in the face of persecution but press forward. The church planted at Derbe under such extreme circumstances is a living testimony to Paul's declaration: 'I can do all things through him who strengthens me.'