Mysia
Mysia is a region mentioned in the New Testament, located in the region of Asia Minor in modern-day Turkey. It appears across 2 verses in Scripture.
Biblical History
Mysia is mentioned in the New Testament during Paul's second missionary journey, as recorded in Acts 16:7-8. After the Holy Spirit prevented Paul and his companions from preaching in the province of Asia, they attempted to enter Bithynia to the northeast, but "the Spirit of Jesus did not allow them." So they passed through Mysia and went down to the port city of Troas on the Aegean coast. It was at Troas that Paul received the Macedonian vision, the pivotal call to cross into Europe with the gospel (Acts 16:9-10). Mysia thus functions in the narrative as a transit region through which the Spirit directed Paul toward a momentous turning point in early Christian mission. The passage highlights the sovereign guidance of the Holy Spirit, who closed certain doors so that the gospel would reach the continent of Europe. While no church planting is recorded in Mysia during this passage, the region contained cities like Pergamum and Troas that would become significant Christian centers, with Pergamum later addressed as one of the seven churches of Revelation (Revelation 2:12-17).
Archaeological & Historical Notes
Mysia was a region in the northwestern corner of Asia Minor, corresponding to the modern Balikesir, Canakkale, and parts of Bursa provinces in Turkey. It bordered the Propontis (Sea of Marmara) to the north, Bithynia to the northeast, Phrygia to the southeast, and Lydia to the south. The region contained major ancient cities including Pergamum, with its famous acropolis, library, and Asclepion healing center, and Troas (Alexandria Troas), Paul's port of departure for Macedonia. Extensive archaeological work at Pergamum has uncovered the Great Altar of Zeus, theaters, temples, and early Christian basilicas. The site of ancient Troas has been partially excavated, revealing Roman baths, harbor structures, and city walls. The region's rich archaeological record illustrates the urban and cultural landscape through which Paul journeyed.
Verse Appearances (2)
Sources: ISBE Encyclopedia · OpenBible Geocoding (CC BY) · Pleiades Gazetteer View all →