### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **Amphípolis**, represented by `{{G295}}`, refers to a specific location in Macedonia. Its name is derived from terms meaning "a city surrounded by a river." The word appears only **1 time** in the Bible, in a single verse, marking it as a geographical reference point rather than a major theological term.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole biblical mention of `{{G295}}` occurs in the book of Acts. It is noted as a city that Paul and his companions **passed through** on their missionary journey [[Acts 17:1]]. The narrative does not record any specific events or ministry taking place in Amphipolis itself. Instead, it serves as a landmark on the way from Philippi to the more strategic city of Thessalonica, where the text notes there was a **synagogue** of the **Jews** [[Acts 17:1]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide context for the journey involving Amphipolis:
* `{{G1353}}` **diodeúō** (to travel through): This verb describes the action taken in relation to Amphipolis, highlighting that it was part of a larger journey [[Acts 17:1]].
* `{{G624}}` **Apollōnía** (Apollonia, a place in Macedonia): This city is mentioned alongside Amphipolis as another location passed through on the same route [[Acts 17:1]].
* `{{G2332}}` **Thessaloníkē** (Thessalonice, a place in Asia Minor): This was the destination of the journey after passing through Amphipolis, and it was a significant center for ministry [[Acts 17:1]].
* `{{G4864}}` **synagōgḗ** (an assemblage of persons; specially, a Jewish "synagogue"): This was the specific destination within Thessalonica, indicating a strategic intent to preach among the Jewish community [[Acts 17:1]].
### Theological Significance
While `{{G295}}` itself carries no direct theological weight, its context within scripture is significant for understanding the progression of the early church's mission.
* **Strategic Missionary Travel:** The mention of Amphipolis helps to map the deliberate path of the apostles. Their journey was not random but a targeted movement toward centers of influence where the gospel could be shared, specifically a **synagogue** of the **Jews** [[Acts 17:1]].
* **Fulfillment of the Great Commission:** The act of passing through `{{G1353}}` places like Amphipolis is part of the broader narrative of the gospel spreading. The travelers **came** `{{G2064}}` to Thessalonica, an action verb used elsewhere to describe Christ's own mission "to seek and to save that which was lost" [[Luke 19:10]].
* **Geographical Marker:** The name serves as a factual anchor, grounding the biblical narrative in real-world geography and history. It demonstrates that the events of the apostles' ministry occurred in specific, identifiable places.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G295}}` **Amphípolis** is a geographical name whose biblical importance comes entirely from its context in [[Acts 17:1]]. It functions as a marker on a missionary journey, showing the path taken by Paul and his companions. Though they only **passed through** the city, its inclusion illustrates the purposeful and strategic nature of the apostles' efforts to bring the gospel to key population centers like Thessalonica.
TRV