Day 04 - Aphrodisias, Philadelphia

RESTORING OUR IDENTITY.

We started our day in Aphrodisias, a place not mentioned in the Bible but it’s where the waters of Roman identity flow from. We explored the vast city, comparing the Roman version of image-bearing to what Jesus says, framing our discuss through two questions: Who are you and who told you that? In the temple of Aphrodite, we talked about how the best thing Rome had to offer in the area of love was lust (eros). Love is the standout difference between Christianity and Rome! We wrapped up our time in the city by teaching in the stadium. Why does our culture worship entertainment and sport so much? Maybe that’s why the apostle Paul, who is ministering in this Roman context, uses so many sports analogies. We had a meaningful conclusion around Hebrews 12:1-2 as some of our team ran in the stadium while the rest of us cheered them on. It was a touching time of confession and care with a significant reminder that the image of Christ is our identity.

After a wonderful lunch where we had live entertainment and even a dancing parrot, we made our way to our second of Seven Churches of Revelation—Philadelphia. The team tenaciously climbed to our teaching spot overlooking the modern city as we discussed a local church whom received only commendation from Jesus! They were persecuted and oppressed, yet the Lord vindicated them, kept them, and rewarded them in the most personal ways. Again, the Lord knows His church intimately. We concluded by praying over the modern city as well as for our local churches we get to be part of.

We’re now headed to the hotel where we’ll get showers and relax a bit. The team is healthy, well, and soaking everything in beautifully! Keep praying; tomorrow is hump day which typically brings some weariness. Pray for sustained strength and ongoing eyes to see.

Thanks so much!

Tommy