Day 06 - Priene, Didyma, Miletus

Our last full day In Turkey!

Today we visited the ancient city of Priene and learned about its Hellenistic Architecture, seen most notably in its theatre. Here on the hill also was a temple to Athena, which was funded by Alexander the Great. It was a an incredible location with the valley in front of us and a towering mountain behind.

From here we drove to Didyma. This magnificent structure still has many of the bases of its column still in place. Here we sat as Dr. Henning talked with us about how, in temples like this, people would come seeking questions from the gods. They may wait hours to find out the answer, as well as need to pay money in sacrifices or gold. In 2 Peter 1, Peter in the New Testament tells us that we can be assured of the prophetic word give to us in Scripture.

After this we enjoyed a delicious lunch at a local spot, having fried fish and other local Turkish food. 

After this we went to the ancient city of Miletus. Our guide explained that this was once a bustling city, but is now reduced to ruins and is not much to see. However, there still stands an amazing theater, where Dr. Henning gave his final lecture within. Here we read about Paul’s farewell speech to the elders in Miletus within Acts 20. We talked about the importance of Pauls message in correspondence with his ministry, and considered Paul's final words to those whom he’d ministered to in these amazing places we have been this trip.

We ended our time at a Turkish Delight making plant, where many of us enjoyed the various flavors of Turkish Delight. 

Tomorrow we begin our long journey home. While we are all excited to see our family and friends, we all can assuredly say that this trip changed our lives. It has changed our perspective on the backgrounds of the New Testament. It has allowed us to meet and spend time with amazing people. And it has allowed us to grow closer with Christ.

See you all soon!