Paul’s Third Missionary Journey
Carousel of images for this Bible Exhibit
The Baptism of Jesus
Jesus’ baptism is depicted in the 19th-century painting. John the Baptist is wearing traditional robes made of camel hair, pouring water over Jesus, who stands before him. The dove from heaven has descended on Jesus, representing the Holy Spirit's presence.
The Spirit Descending on Jesus
This painting from 1895 shows John the Baptist pouring water over Jesus, whose head is illuminated, representing his divine nature. The Holy Spirit, represented by the dove, is descending on Jesus.
The Baptism of Christ
This Renaissance painting from 1591 imagines the scene at the Jordan River where John the Baptizer is pouring water over Jesus as the dove descends from God the Father, pictured in the clouds.
The Baptism of Christ
This Baroque period painting from 1622-1623 imagines the scene of John pouring water over Jesus while the Spirit descends in the form of a dove.
The Baptism of Christ
This 19th-century painting depicts God’s light shining down on Jesus as he rises up out of the water.
Bethany Beyond the Jordan
The baptism site known as “Bethany Beyond the Jordan” ruins on the eastern side of the Jordan River across from Jericho. This location has been preserved as the place where John the Baptist baptized Jesus.
The Baptism Site of Jesus
This is a side view of Jesus’ baptism site, known as “Bethany Beyond the Jordan,” on the eastern side of the Jordan River, across from Jericho.
The Modern Jordan River
This picture is of the modern Jordan River near the traditional baptismal site. In Jesus' day, the river would have been significantly wider with a greater water flow.
A Monument Marking Jesus’ Baptism
A cross marking the area of Jesus' baptism site overlooking the Jordan River.
St. John The Baptist Greek Orthodox Church
This is one of several churches or chapels rebuilt in this area, marking Jesus’ baptism.
Listen to this Bible Exhibit
After a period of rest in Antioch, Paul’s third missionary journey began by traveling through Galatia and Phrygia, strengthening his previously planted churches Acts 18:23. His primary concern on this journey was the missionally strategic city of Ephesus, where he stayed for over two years, teaching, performing miracles, and establishing a strong Christian community Acts 19:8-10.
In Ephesus, Paul encountered a group of disciples who had only received John’s baptism. He explained the full message of Jesus, and when they were baptized in His name, they received the Holy Spirit Acts 19:1-7. Extraordinary miracles marked Paul’s time in Ephesus, as even handkerchiefs and aprons that touched him were used to heal the sick and drive out demons Acts 19:11-12. His ministry was so effective that many people abandoned their magic and publicly burned their sorcery books Acts 19:18-19. However, his success also led to opposition. A silversmith named Demetrius, who made idols of the goddess Artemis, saw his business threatened and stirred up a riot against Paul. Though Paul was not harmed, the uproar demonstrated the impact of his ministry, making inroads throughout the pagan Roman Empire Acts 19:23-41.
After leaving Ephesus, Paul traveled through Macedonia and Greece, visiting churches in Philippi, Thessalonica, and Corinth. He wrote letters to the Corinthians and the Romans during this time, encouraging them in faith and addressing concerns within their churches. His letter to the Romans laid out foundational Christian doctrines, explaining salvation by faith in Christ and God’s plan for both Jews and Gentiles Romans 3:21-24; 9:6-8.
Paul’s journey continued with a return through Macedonia, where he met with believers and strengthened them. In Troas, he preached until midnight, and a young man named Eutychus fell from a third-story window and died. Through God’s power, Paul brought him back to life, strengthening the faith of those present Acts 20:7-12.
As he traveled toward Jerusalem, Paul met with the elders of the Ephesian church in Miletus. He warned them about false teachers who would try to lead believers astray and reminded them of his dedication to preaching the gospel despite hardships Acts 20:28-31. The elders wept as they said their final goodbyes, knowing they would not see him again Acts 20:36-38.
When Paul arrived in Caesarea, the prophet Agabus warned him that he would be arrested in Jerusalem. Despite his companions’ pleas, Paul was determined to complete his mission in the footsteps of his Lord, saying that he was ready to not only be imprisoned, but to die for the name of Jesus Acts 21:13. His journey ended as he arrived in Jerusalem, where believers warmly welcomed him Acts 21:17.
This third missionary journey was instrumental in strengthening the early church’s foundation. Paul’s efforts in teaching and correcting false beliefs and his unwavering commitment amidst opposition exemplify the resilience and dedication required to spread the Christian faith during its formative years. His journey reinforced existing communities and facilitated the spread of Christianity into new regions, laying the groundwork for ongoing ministry and church growth as Jesus commanded the gospel message go to the “ends of the earth.”
This Bible Exhibit is one of the several hundred found on the Bible Compass within the Bible Ventures app
