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G490 · Greek · New Testament
Ἀντιόχεια
Antiocheia
Proper noun, location
Antioch (city)

Definition

Antiocheia refers to two cities named Antioch in the New Testament: (1) Antioch in Syria (modern Turkey), the major Gentile church center and the base for Paul's missionary journeys; and (2) Antioch in Pisidia, also visited by Paul. Syrian Antioch was where disciples were first called Christians (Acts 11:26).

Usage & Theological Significance

Syrian Antioch holds enormous theological significance — it was the first major Gentile church, the launching pad for world missions, and the place where the name "Christian" was first used. The church at Antioch represents the breakthrough of the gospel beyond Jewish boundaries and models the sending church. Every missionary enterprise since traces its spiritual DNA to Antioch.

Key Bible Verses

Acts 11:26 The disciples were called Christians first at Antioch.
Acts 13:1 Now in the church at Antioch there were prophets and teachers: Barnabas, Simeon called Niger, Lucius of Cyrene, Manaen and Saul.
Acts 13:2 While they were worshiping the Lord and fasting, the Holy Spirit said, 'Set apart for me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them.'
Galatians 2:11 When Cephas came to Antioch, I opposed him to his face, because he stood condemned.
Acts 14:26 From Attalia they sailed back to Antioch, where they had been committed to the grace of God for the work they had now completed.

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