How many churches were started on Paul’s first journey?
The first missionary journey of Paul, a significant figure in the spread of Christianity, marked the establishment of several churches across the regions of Asia Minor and Greece. This journey, which took place from approximately 47 to 50 AD, was pivotal in the development of the early Christian church. Understanding the number of churches founded during this period provides insight into the rapid growth and expansion of the faith during the New Testament era.
The exact number of churches started on Paul’s first journey is a subject of debate among scholars. However, it is widely accepted that several churches were established during this time. One of the most prominent churches founded during this journey was the Church of Antioch, which played a crucial role in the early Christian movement.
In the book of Acts, we find several instances where Paul and his companions established churches. In Acts 13:44-52, we learn about the conversion of the crowd in Iconium, where many believed and were baptized. However, the persecution of the believers led to Paul and Barnabas leaving the city and heading to Derbe. It was in Derbe that they likely founded another church, as mentioned in Acts 14:21.
Moving forward, Paul and Barnabas traveled to Lystra, where they encountered a man who had been lame from birth. Through prayer and faith, Paul healed the man, leading to a significant number of conversions. The church in Lystra was another result of this miraculous event, as mentioned in Acts 14:19-20.
Continuing their journey, Paul and Barnabas reached the island of Cyprus, where they encountered a sorcerer named Bar-Jesus. Through Paul’s ministry, many came to believe in the Lord, and a church was established in Paphos, as recorded in Acts 13:12.
The journey then took them to Asia Minor, where they visited cities such as Pisidian Antioch, Iconium, Lystra, Derbe, and Troas. In each of these cities, they founded churches, as evidenced by the accounts in the book of Acts. It is estimated that between 10 to 13 churches were established during Paul’s first missionary journey.
These churches, although small in number, played a significant role in the spread of the Christian faith. They served as centers of worship, fellowship, and mission, contributing to the growth of the early church. The success of Paul’s first missionary journey laid the foundation for his subsequent missions and the expansion of Christianity throughout the Roman Empire.
In conclusion, while the exact number of churches started on Paul’s first journey may be a matter of debate, it is evident that several churches were established during this pivotal period. These churches became the cornerstones of the early Christian movement, shaping the faith and influencing the world for centuries to come.
