Sailing the Scriptures: St. Paul’s Mission & St. John’s Revelation

This morning we sail across to Kos, a vibrant island named in Acts 21:1 as a stop during St. Paul’s final journey to Jerusalem: “After we had torn ourselves away from them, we put out to sea and sailed straight to Kos.” On Kos, we explore the remains of early basilicas and the agora, reflecting on how every harbor St. Paul entered became an opportunity to witness. Here,the apostle was a traveler between worlds Jew and Greek, East and West carrying the unchanging Gospel. The island’s blend of cultures reminds us of St. Paul’s words in 1 Corinthians 9:22: “I have become all things to all people so that by all possible means I might save some.” Overnight in Kos harbor.

We return to the Turkish coast to explore Iasos, a once thriving port town. Its agora,bouleuterion, and temple ruins show us the cultural and religious environment into which St. Paul preached. Nearby, the fishing village of Kiyikislacik offers a glimpse of timeless life by the sea. As we wander these quiet shores, we recall Matthew 4:19: “Come, follow me, and I will send you out to fish for people.” Just as the fishermen of Galilee became disciples, St. Paul called men and women from bustling cities and humble villages alike. The waters here remind us that God’s call reaches across every shore. Overnight on board.

A day rich in biblical significance. At Miletus, St. Paul gave his farewell to the Ephesian elders(Acts 20:17–38). Standing in its grand theatre, we recall his words: “I only know that in everycity the Holy Spirit warns me that prison and hardships are facing me… however, my onlyaim is to finish the race and complete the task the Lord Jesus has given me.” His prayerful farewell, filled with tears and courage, inspires us to remain faithful to the mission of Christ.We also visit Didyma, with its immense Temple of Apollo an idol that contrasted sharply with St. Paul’s message of the living God. At Priene, a perfectly preserved Hellenistic city, we walk marble streets that echo the Greco Roman world St. Paul addressed with the Gospel.Overnight anchored near Didim.

Today we sail north to Kusadasi, gateway to the great city of Ephesus, St. Paul’s base of mission. Here he lived and preached for over two years (Acts 19), so that “all the Jews and Greeks who lived in the province of Asia heard the word of the Lord.” We walk the marbleavenues, visiting the Great Theatre where a riot broke out against St. Paul, the Library of Celsus, the Agora, and the aristocratic Terrace Houses. At the Basilica of St. John, were member the beloved disciple’s testimony, and at the site of the Temple of Artemis, were call Acts 19:28: “Great is Artemis of the Ephesians!”Revelation 2:4 warns us: “You have forsaken the love you had at first.” Overnight Kuşadası harbor.

We sail to the sacred island of Patmos, where St. John received the Revelation (Rev. 1:9–11): “I,John… was on the island of Patmos because of the word of God and the testimony of Jesus.On the Lord’s Day I was in the Spirit, and I heard behind me a loud voice like a trumpet,which said: Write what you see and send it to the seven churches.” We visit the Cave of the Apocalypse, where St. John’s vision was received, and the Monastery of St. John, a spiritual beacon above the harbor. Here we reflect on the eternal messages to the Seven Churches words of encouragement, warning, and hope. Evening worship overlooking the island’s rugged coastline. Overnight Patmos.

Returning to Kusadasi, we travel inland to Izmir (ancient Smyrna), one of the Seven Churches of Revelation. In Revelation 2:8–11, Christ says: “I know your afflictions and yourpoverty yet you are rich… Be faithful, even to the point of death, and I will give you life as your victor’s crown.” Smyrna’s church endured persecution and martyrdom, most famously that of Polycarp, who declared at his trial: “Eighty six years I have served Him, and He has done me no wrong. How then can I blaspheme my King?” Visiting Polycarp’s Church and theancient agora, we honor this legacy of courage and steadfast faith. Back in Kusadasi, we share our farewell dinner on board, celebrating fellowship and the journey we’ve shared. OvernightKuşadası.

After breakfast, we disembark in Kusadasi, closing our pilgrimage yacht cruise with St. Paul’s words in 2 Timothy 4:7: “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.” As St. Paul entrusted the Gospel to others, so too we return home with renewed faith, ready to continue his mission in our own lives. Transfer for onward travel.