Ephesus: Heart of Early Christian Mission

Ephesus was one of the greatest cities of the ancient world, a bustling harbor, a center of trade and philosophy, and home to the magnificent Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.

But in the first century A.D., this thriving metropolis became one of the most important centers of early Christianity, because two apostles, Paul and John, both lived and ministered here. Their work transformed Ephesus into the spiritual heart of Asia Minor and the first of the Seven Churches addressed in the Book of Revelation.

The Apostle Paul in Ephesus

Around A.D. 52, Paul arrived in Ephesus during his third missionary journey, marking the beginning of a transformative period for the early church. He dedicated nearly three years to this vibrant city, teaching daily in the lecture hall of Tyrannus, where the Gospel message spread throughout Asia Minor. Paul's ministry was characterized by fearless preaching in the synagogue, miraculous healings, and confrontations with the local idol worship of Artemis, which ignited a significant riot among silversmiths reliant on pagan practices. His time in Ephesus culminated in the writing of the Letter to the Ephesians, reminding believers to live in unity and love — and to “put on the full armor of God” (Ephesians 6:11).Through his efforts, Ephesus emerged as a beacon of faith, standing resilient against the backdrop of the Roman Empire.

Apostle John and Virgin Mary in Ephesus

Years later, John the Apostle, “the disciple whom Jesus loved,” made Ephesus his home after the crucifixion.

According to early Christian tradition, John cared for the Virgin Mary here, honoring Jesus’ words from the cross:

“Woman, behold your son.” (John 19:26)

Nestled in the hills above Ephesus, Mary’s House is believed to be the place where she spent her final years, a sanctuary of peace and prayer still visited by pilgrims from around the world. During the later persecution under Emperor Domitian, John was exiled to the island of Patmos. There he received the visions recorded in the Book of Revelation. In that book, Christ addresses seven real congregations in Asia Minor—Ephesus, Smyrna, Pergamum, Thyatira, Sardis, Philadelphia, and Laodicea, churches John already shepherded from Ephesus. Which you will also visit.

After his exile, John returned to Ephesus, where he continued to guide believers until his death. His tomb rests beneath the ruins of the Basilica of St. John (6th century). The Basilica of St. John is located in Selçuk, just a few minutes north of the ancient ruins of Ephesus.

The Council of Ephesus: Proclaiming the Divinity of Christ

In 431 AD, the Council of Ephesus convened, marking a pivotal moment in Christian history. This ecumenical council was primarily called to address the teachings of Nestorius, who controversially suggested a distinction between the divine and human natures of Jesus. The council ultimately affirmed the belief in the unity of Christ's nature, declaring Him fully God and fully man. This proclamation not only solidified the doctrine of the Trinity but also reinforced the significance of Mary as Theotokos, or 'God-bearer.' The decisions made here shaped the future of Christian theology and continue to resonate in the faith today. Visiting Ephesus allows you to walk the very paths where these monumental discussions took place, deepening your understanding of early Christianity and its foundational beliefs.

The Sacred Significance of Ephesus in Christianity

Ephesus is the only place in the world where the lives of Paul, John, and Mary intersect, a sacred meeting point of faith, courage, and divine love.

It is a city where the early Christian message of perseverance and hope was tested and ultimately triumphed.

When you walk its marble streets today — past the Library of Celsus and the Great Theater,  you stand where:

• Paul preached to thousands

• Mary prayed in her final home, and
  

• John shepherded the early Church and wrote the final words of the Bible.

The Third, Fourth and Fifth Churches of Revelation: Pergamum, Thyatira and Sardis

Pergamum (The Compromised Church)

Located where pagan temples dominated, Pergamum is praised for loyalty but warned against false teachings. (Revelation 2:12-17)

“Hold fast to My name.”

Thyatira (The Corrupted Church)

A church known for love and service, yet challenged to reject moral compromise. (Revelation 2:18-29)

“I am He who searches minds and hearts.”

Sardis (The Dead Church)

Despite an appearance of life, Sardis is urged to wake up spiritually. (Revelation 3:1-6)

“Wake up! Strengthen what remains.”

The Sixth, and Seventh Churches of Revelation

Philadelphia (The Faithful Church)

Small but strong in faith, Philadelphia receives no rebuke — only promise. (Revelation 3:7-13)

“I have placed before you an open door that no one can shut.”

Laodicea (The Lukewarm Church)

Wealthy but complacent, Laodicea is called to passionate faith and true riches in Christ. (Revelation 3:14-22)

“Behold, I stand at the door and knock.”

Together, these messages form a spiritual map of devotion, endurance, and renewal, guiding believers then and now. Visiting the Seven Churches in Türkiye allows travelers to walk through the living pages of Revelation, experiencing the faith stories that shaped Christianity’s earliest communities.