Turkey, known as Asia Minor in biblical times, has a rich history in the Bible. Many important biblical events took place in cities that are now part of modern-day Turkey. The apostle Paul was born in Tarsus, Turkey and established several churches throughout the region. Turkey is also prophesied to play a key role in end times events according to the book of Ezekiel.
Turkey in the Old Testament
In the Old Testament, Asia Minor or Anatolia (modern-day Turkey) was home to numerous Jewish communities. After the Babylonian exile, Jews settled in the region as they dispersed from Israel. By the 1st century BC, there were thriving Jewish populations in cities like Tarsus, Derbe, Lystra, Iconium, Pisidian Antioch, and Perga.
Parts of Turkey are referenced in the books of Acts, Ephesians, Galatians, and Revelation. Some of the Anatolian regions and cities mentioned include:
- Tubal (Ezekiel 27:13, 32:26)
- Meshech (Psalm 120:5)
- Cappadocia (Acts 2:9)
- Pontus (Acts 2:9)
- Phrygia (Acts 16:6)
- Pamphylia (Acts 13:13)
- Lydia (Acts 16:14)
- Mysia (Acts 16:7-8)
- Cilicia (Acts 21:39)
So even in Old Testament times, Asia Minor or Anatolia (Turkey) had a significant Jewish population dispersed throughout the region.
Turkey in the New Testament
In the New Testament, Turkey grows even more prominent as a center of early Christianity. The apostle Paul was born in Tarsus, an important city in southeast Turkey. After his dramatic conversion, Paul established several churches throughout Asia Minor, including the church at Ephesus.
The apostle John also ministered extensively in Turkey and addressed the book of Revelation to the seven churches located in the region: Ephesus, Smyrna, Pergamum, Thyatira, Sardis, Philadelphia, and Laodicea (Revelation 1:11).
Here are some key biblical events that took place in Turkey
- Paul’s missionary journeys established churches throughout Turkey (Acts 13-21)
- Paul wrote letters to churches he founded in Galatia (Galatians)
- Peter addressed his first epistle to believers living in Turkey (1 Peter 1:1)
- The Jerusalem council confirmed that gentile converts did not need to be circumcised (Acts 15)
- John received his revelation on Patmos, an island off the coast of Turkey (Revelation 1:9)
Turkey in Bible Prophecy
Not only does Turkey feature prominently in biblical history, but Ezekiel 38-39 foretells Turkey’s future role in end times events Ezekiel prophesied that in the last days Turkey (Togarmah) would join a coalition of nations led by Gog of Magog that would invade Israel
“The word of the Lord came to me: ‘Son of man, set your face against Gog, of the land of Magog, the chief prince of Meshek and Tubal; prophesy against him and say: ‘This is what the Sovereign Lord says: I am against you, Gog, chief prince of Meshek and Tubal. I will turn you around, put hooks in your jaws and bring you out with your whole army—your horses, your horsemen fully armed, and a great horde with large and small shields, all of them brandishing their swords…You will come from your place in the far north, you and many nations with you’” (Ezekiel 38:1-4, 15).
While there is debate over the identity of Gog, most scholars agree that “Meshek and Tubal” refer to ancient sites located in central and eastern Turkey. Additionally, verse 6 states that Gomer and “Beth Togarmah” will join the invasion. Gomer refers to Cappadocia in Turkey while Togarmah represents eastern Turkey.
So Ezekiel’s prophecy indicates that Turkey will be a leader in the end times invasion of Israel. Recent developments like Turkey’s more aggressive anti-Israel stance seem to set the stage for Ezekiel 38-39. While the full fulfillment awaits the tribulation period, Turkey’s emergence parallels what Ezekiel predicted thousands of years ago.
From Old Testament times to the early church period to biblical prophecies about the end times, Turkey stands out as enormously important in Scripture. Given its strategic location, Turkey has influenced the direction of history and will continue to do so in the last days according to Ezekiel 38-39. Understanding Turkey’s biblical past provides insight into its crucial future role in fulfilling God’s plans.
A History of Christianity in Turkey
FAQ
What was Turkey called in biblical?
What land was Turkey in the Bible?
What is the ancient name of Turkey?
Why is Turkey so important in the Bible?
Why was Turkey important in Biblical times?
Turkey, known as Asia Minor in biblical times, was a crossroad of civilizations and a center of trade in the ancient world. The biblical events that took place in this land are often overlooked, but they played a crucial role in shaping biblical history.
Did Turkey exist in Biblical times?
Although the name “Turkey” did not exist in biblical times, the historical and archaeological remnants in modern-day Turkey provide a captivating glimpse into the ancient world. Turkey, as we know it today, did not exist in biblical times, but the land that is now Turkey was the location for many of the people and events in biblical history.
What role did Turkey play in the spread of Christianity?
Turkey played a crucial role in the spread of Christianity. The Apostle Paul embarked on several missionary journeys throughout Turkey, preaching and establishing Christian communities. The city of Antioch, located in present-day Turkey, became known as the “Cradle of Christianity.” It was in Antioch that the disciples were first called Christians.
What to see in Turkey if you are interested in Biblical Archaeology?
Ephesus, one of the most important Biblical archaeology places to see in Turkey, where you will be surrounded by archaeologist discoveries. Photo: Sonia Halliday Ephesus is one of the most popular places to go in Turkey for travelers interested in Biblical and historical sites.