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.
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.
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.
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.
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