What Was Perga in the Bible?
Perga: A City in the Missionary Journeys
Perga is a city mentioned in the Bible in the book of Acts. Specifically, in Acts 13:13, it states: “From Paphos, Paul and his companions sailed to Perga in Pamphylia, where John left them to return to Jerusalem.”
Historical and Geographical Context
Perga was an ancient city located in the region of Pamphylia, in what is now modern-day Turkey. It was a significant urban center in the Roman province of Asia Minor, known for its strategic location and prominent harbor. As a bustling center of trade and commerce, Perga played a crucial role in the region’s economy and cultural exchanges.
Perga in the Biblical Narrative
In the book of Acts, Perga is highlighted as a key location in the missionary journeys of the apostle Paul. During their first missionary journey, Paul and his companions, including Barnabas and John Mark, traveled to Perga after leaving Paphos on the island of Cyprus. The journey is described in Acts 13:13, where it mentions that John Mark left Paul and Barnabas in Perga and returned to Jerusalem. This departure of John Mark would later become a point of contention between Paul and Barnabas, as recorded in Acts 15:36-41.
The Departure of John Mark
The departure of John Mark in Perga is significant for several reasons. Firstly, it marks a moment of disagreement and tension within the early missionary team. John Mark’s decision to leave and return to Jerusalem was later cited by Paul as a reason for his reluctance to take him on subsequent missions. In Acts 15:36-41, we read about the sharp disagreement between Paul and Barnabas over John Mark’s participation in their next journey, ultimately leading to their separation. Barnabas took John Mark with him to Cyprus, while Paul chose Silas as his new companion.
Lessons for the Modern Christian
Navigating Disagreements
The incident involving John Mark’s departure from Perga teaches modern Christians about navigating disagreements within the faith community. Despite the sharp contention between Paul and Barnabas, both continued their missionary work, albeit separately. This teaches that while disagreements may arise, they should not hinder the overall mission of spreading the Gospel. Ephesians 4:2-3 encourages believers to maintain unity: “Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace.”
Perseverance in Ministry
Paul’s continued missionary efforts, even after the disagreement, exemplify perseverance in ministry. Challenges and setbacks are inevitable, but commitment to God’s calling must remain steadfast. 2 Timothy 4:7 reflects Paul’s dedication: “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.”
Connection to a Loving God
God’s Sovereignty in Mission
The events at Perga demonstrate God’s sovereignty in mission work. Despite human disagreements, God’s plan for spreading the Gospel continued to unfold. This reassures believers that God’s purposes will prevail, even amid human imperfections. Proverbs 19:21 states: “Many are the plans in a person’s heart, but it is the Lord’s purpose that prevails.”
Redemption and Second Chances
John Mark’s later restoration to ministry shows God’s grace and the possibility of redemption. Despite his earlier departure, he eventually became a valuable companion to Paul, as seen in 2 Timothy 4:11, where Paul writes: “Get Mark and bring him with you, because he is helpful to me in my ministry.” This highlights God’s ability to restore and use individuals for His glory, despite past failures.
Connection to Jesus Christ
The Call to Discipleship
The experiences of Paul, Barnabas, and John Mark in Perga reflect the broader call to discipleship that Jesus extended to His followers. Discipleship involves challenges, disagreements, and growth. Jesus called His disciples to follow Him, knowing they would face various trials. In Matthew 16:24, Jesus says: “Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me.”
The Spread of the Gospel
The missionary journey through Perga and the subsequent spread of the Gospel align with Jesus’ Great Commission in Matthew 28:19-20: “Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you.” The work in Perga is part of the broader narrative of taking the message of Christ to all nations.
Conclusion
Perga, though briefly mentioned in the Bible, plays a significant role in the narrative of early Christian missions. The events in Perga involving Paul, Barnabas, and John Mark offer valuable lessons on handling disagreements, persevering in ministry, and experiencing God’s sovereignty and grace. These accounts encourage modern Christians to remain faithful to their calling, navigate conflicts with love and humility, and trust in God’s ultimate plan for His mission. Through the story of Perga, believers are reminded of the enduring call to discipleship and the transformative power of the Gospel, rooted in the love and redemption found in Jesus Christ.