Paul arrives in Europe: Philippi

Visited 5/22/24

Written 5/23/24

Dear Family and Friends,

Welcome to Philippi

Acts 16

Paul had a desire to leave Asia minor and expand his missionary work into Macedonia (Europe). Luke tells us that he was prevented for a time from leaving his work in Asia. Going to Europe was on God’s timing.

Paul went preaching in towns arriving at Troas and there he had a vision of a man from Macedonia, probably in identifiable dress, to come over to help him.

Luke in Acts chapter 16 relates the events in order when Paul reaches Philippi. 

On the Sabbath, Paul and his companions go out of the city Walls for prayer by the stream. There they meet a group of women, praying, including Lydia, a seller of purple cloth. Lydia believes and worships God. So her heart has been prepared for Paul’s message. Through her faith and baptism, she becomes the first Christian convert in Europe. While in Philippi, Paul, Silas, Timothy and Luke stay at Lydia’s house.

The missionary work was successful in Philippi. A possessed slave girl follows Paul, Silas and Timothy around town until Paul asked the demon to leave her alone.

This totally upset her owners who are making money from her predictions so they had Paul and Silas arrested, stripped and beaten, and put into the probably only prison that this town had.

And earthquake hits Philippi and the gates of the cells were opened and the shackles released. The jailer plans to commit suicide and Paul stops him and says … “we’re all here.”

All afternoon and evening the jailer had been listening to Paul and Silas witness about Jesus through singing and prayers. We don’t know their actual words, but it was enough for the jailer to ask “what much I do to be saved!”

When the city fathers (magistrates) found out that Paul and Silas were Roman citizens they became deeply concerned and wanted them to be released quietly. Paul insisted on a public release from the magistrates however Paul, Silas & Luke were asked leave town so they went on to Thessaloniki.

Archaeological Philippi

Early Christian Basilica (church) from the sixth century A.D.

Philippi is an active archaeological dig site. Earthquakes that happen to release Paul and Silas have been occurring throughout the centuries. Shifting mountains and the release of soil to cover the ancient ruins provide work for archaeologist and opportunities for Christians to walk in the steps of Paul.

Thanks for reading to the end!

Ellen