Day 04 - Hieropolis & Laodicea

The day began with amazing joy, a hot air balloon ride over the Lycus river valley. Below we could see not only the white lime cliffs near the 1st century city of Hieropolis but also the general location of two other major New Testament cities of Colossae and Laodicea. The green of the valley surrounded by snow-capped mountains was majestic and reminds of the greatness of God who watches down on all of us.

Next, a short bus ride took us to the city we had just seen from above, Hieropolis. Just like today cities have cemeteries but then they surrounded the city and were called the necropolis (city of the dead). An amazing variety of tombs revealed both the history and diversity of the city, including and inscription of a Jewish menorah. Moving on we went through the city gates and saw where travelers could get cleaned up from their journey. Then up a hill to the tomb of Philip the apostle who, along with the apostle John ministered in this city. Then off to an amazing theater where thousands would be entertained. Our time in Hieropolis ended with a shoeless walk through refreshing pools of water formed by the white lime cliffs.

Our next major stop was the overwhelming biblical city of Laodicea (pronounced LaodiKea. There we saw a water tower showing the effect of the poor and lukewarm water of the city reflecting the spiritual condition of the church there. The overall impact of the city shows a thriving culture that thought they had it all, when in reality they had nothing of lasting value in the eyes of God. Archeologists have uncovered what may have been an early house church. This could have been the meeting place of the believers who Jesus chided for having in essence taken on the flavor of the surrounding culture (Revelation 3:14-22).

Both cities reflect the overwhelming power of the pagan government and culture. In the face of such odds what hope for meaningful impact could be had for the new Jesus movement? Yet we, just like they, have the Holy Spirit. And we, just like they, can transform our culture.

The day ended with a totally quick stop at an upside down house where you can take crazy fun pictures. What an amazing, productive, joy filled day!

Al Hester