### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **Lykaonía**, represented by `{{G3071}}`, refers to **Lycaonia**, a region of Asia Minor. It appears only **1 time** across **1 unique verse** in scripture. Its sole mention serves to establish a specific geographical setting for key events in the early church's missionary expansion.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G3071}}` is introduced as the apostles are carrying out their ministry. When they "were ware" `{{G4894}}` of a plot against them, they "fled" `{{G2703}}` to find safety. The scripture specifies their destination as "Lystra `{{G3082}}` and Derbe `{{G1191}}`, cities `{{G4172}}` of **Lycaonia** `{{G3071}}`, and unto the region that lieth round about `{{G4066}}`" [[Acts 14:6]]. This passage positions Lycaonia as a region that provided a crucial refuge, allowing the apostolic mission to continue in new territory.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help define the context of Lycaonia's single appearance:
* `{{G3082}}` **Lýstra**: Identified as a place in Asia Minor, it was one of the primary cities within the region of Lycaonia where the apostles took refuge and ministered [[Acts 14:6]].
* `{{G1191}}` **Dérbē**: A place in Asia Minor mentioned alongside Lystra as a city of Lycaonia, further defining the area to which the apostles fled [[Acts 14:6]].
* `{{G2703}}` **katapheúgō** (to flee down (away)): This verb explains the circumstances that led the apostles into Lycaonia, marking it as a sanctuary from immediate danger [[Acts 14:6]].
* `{{G4172}}` **pólis** (a town... city): This word is used to describe Lystra and Derbe, indicating that Lycaonia was a region that contained populated centers suitable for evangelistic work [[Acts 14:6]].
### Theological Significance
The significance of `{{G3071}}` is found in its role as a strategic location in the advancement of the gospel.
* **A Sanctuary for Ministry:** Lycaonia's primary role in the narrative is as a safe haven. The apostles' flight `{{G2703}}` there was not an end to their work but a redirection, showing how God provides places of refuge to ensure the continuation of His mission [[Acts 14:6]].
* **A Field for Growth:** The region of Lycaonia, particularly its cities like Lystra `{{G3082}}`, became fertile ground. After arriving, the apostles "preached the gospel to that city, and had taught many" [[Acts 14:21]]. It was also in Lystra that Timothy, a key figure in the early church, was found [[Acts 16:1]].
* **Geographical Marker of Expansion:** The specific mention of **Lycaonia** highlights the historical reality of the gospel's spread from Jerusalem into the wider world, documenting its entry into a distinct region of Asia Minor.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G3071}}` **Lykaonía** is a specific geographical region whose single mention carries significant weight. It is presented in scripture as the area that provided critical refuge to the apostles, allowing them to escape persecution [[Acts 14:6]]. More importantly, this region of cities became a new center for their ministry, illustrating how God's plan can advance even through circumstances of retreat and danger.
TRV