Day 01 - Smyrna, Pergamum, Asclepeion

Day 1: Walking Through Ancient Pergamum

We began our journey at the Acropolis of Pergamum, a towering city on a hill where kings and gods were believed to dwell. A scenic gondola ride carried us to the top, transporting us back in time to the world of ancient Greece and Rome. As we stepped onto the historic site, we were met with immense retaining walls that once supported grand temple buildings, a vast cistern system, and towering pillars that held up high ceilings.

Walking through the ruins, we got a glimpse of daily life in the ancient world. People gathered here for education and athletic training in the gymnasium, where wrestling matches and schooling were a central part of society. One of the most striking sights was the steep amphitheater, dramatically sloping down the hillside. Climbing the stairs was a challenge, but the breathtaking view was worth it! With 13 different temples spread throughout the Acropolis, it was clear that their gods were deeply woven into every aspect of daily life.

Biblical Significance:

Although there is no record of Paul visiting Pergamum, we know from Revelation 2 that a Christian church existed here. Walking through these ruins helped us imagine the cultural and religious atmosphere Paul was navigating as he shared the gospel.

Jade taught us an interesting historical connection: When Julius Caesar was deified, his nephew Augustus took on the title "Son of God." Because Caesar brought peace and prosperity to the empire, he was said to have brought the "gospel." This introduced a profound contrast: the gospel of Caesar vs. the Gospel of Jesus. Seeing this historical backdrop made us more aware of the tension between earthly kingdoms and the kingdom of God.

Asklepios: The Ancient Healing Center

Our second stop was Asklepios, an ancient healing sanctuary still within Pergamum. This was a famous spa complex dedicated to Asklepios, the Greek god of medicine. However, not just anyone could enter—visitors seeking healing first had to pass a test: they had to prove their strength by carrying stones.

This elite healing center featured thermal baths, a theater, a grand library, and the best medicinal treatments money could buy. Walking through the site, we could imagine the wealthy and powerful of the ancient world seeking cures, hoping for a divine touch to restore their health.

Final Thoughts:

Day 1 gave us a powerful introduction to the world of the early church, where emperors were worshiped, gods were honored in every aspect of life, and the gospel of Jesus stood in sharp contrast to the gospel of Rome.