Bible Society of South Africa

Paul’s Third Missionary Journey

Paul’s third missionary journey begins in Antioch in Syria and ends in Jerusalem. In the course of this journey Paul passes through various cities in Asia Minor, Macedonia and Greece. There is a report of this journey in Acts 18:23–21:26.

The journey begins around AD 54 and takes several years.

From Antioch to Ephesus

After a long journey from Antioch, Paul reaches the city of Ephesus. During the course of a long stay there, he instructs the Christians there in the faith and appeals to Jews and non-Jews to be converted. Most of the Jews reject Paul’s message. In addition, many people who believe in the goddess Artemis riot against Paul. The leader of the city council finally takes steps to ensure that the city quietens down again (Acts 18:23–19:40).

In Macedonia, Greece and Asia Minor

By way of Macedonia, Greece and Macedonia once again, Paul reaches the cities of Troas and Miletus in Asia Minor. In Miletus he meets the leaders of the church in Ephesus. He tells them that he is going to Jerusalem and that they will not see him again (Acts 20).

To Jerusalem

On the way, many of Paul’s friends warn him not to go to Jerusalem. But Paul is unwilling to change his plans. In Jerusalem the leaders of the church ask Paul to show the Jews there that he observes the Jewish law faithfully (Acts 21:1-26).

Read more?

With a free BibleSA account, you can:

  • Read other translations in all official languages.
  • Listen to the Bible (11 translations are already available).
  • Compare different Bible translations.
  • Personalise your experience by including your own notes and highlights. You will also be able to view your notes and highlights separately.
  • Access to over 1100+ topics and background articles in English and Afrikaans and 52 full colour maps.

Bible Society of South Africav.4.19.0
Find us on