This trip will enrich your understanding of the Scriptures by introducing you to the vivid context in which the New Testament was written.
Done right, a study tour can be relaxing and fun! Together with Dr. Brian Haynes, we'll explore the past and present of Turkey. Each day we'll unpack what we've learned in the context of biblical history as well as our daily faith.
Brian Haynes (D.Min) is Lead Pastor at Bay Area Church and Christian School where he shepherds people, preaches and teaches, and stewards the vision of restoring people, families, and churches. Brian is an avid learner, hiker, and disciple maker having led hundreds of people to experience the ancient paths of the Bible in Israel. He has authored a few books and is a well known conference speaker. He and his wife Angela and their three daughters live in Houston, Texas.
We are only a few months away from embarking on the journey of a lifetime together in Biblical Asia Minor or modern Turkey. I cannot wait! The journey begins now! Welcome to, Restoring Shalom: A Biblical Study Experience in Turkey.
If we have never met face to face, I’m looking forward to it. My name is Brian Haynes. Married for 27 years, three daughters, one dog. I serve as Lead Pastor for Bay Area Church and Christian School in League City, Texas, a suburb of Houston. Since 2006 I have gained extensive training and experience guiding study tours in the lands of the Bible. I experienced Turkey and guided Turkey twice in 2021 so I am well studied and up to date with archaeology. We have the best Turkish guide in the entire country in the opinion of many. His name is Ozan and you will love getting to know him. I have an earned doctoral degree and am the author of three books with a fourth to publish in 2023 titled, “War in the Wilderness.” Leading people to experience the biblical Text in context is one of the most fruitful Kingdom endeavors of my life. I’m a shepherd at heart.
Jesus told his disciples in Acts 1:8, “But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth.” For the first disciples, the end of the earth was Roman Asia Minor. The annals of history and layers of archaeological evidence indicate followers of Jesus brought the gospel of the risen King Jesus into the propaganda, prosperity, identity, security, power, and view of love that was the Pax Romana; the peace of Rome. How do you restore shalom in a land, among a people, and in the face of Caesar who collectively believe they hold the world market on power and peace? That might be a really important case study for us as followers of Jesus living in America, the world’s great super power.
To that end we will study in context the 7 churches of Revelation. You will put your feet on the site of each of the 7 Churches. We will walk in the footsteps of the disciple John and the Apostle Paul along with other biblical “shalom makers” like Epaphras, Phillip, Timothy, and so many more. You will likely be moved both by the might and prominence of Rome and the power of the gospel of Jesus to bring shalom to that chaos.
Rest assured we are going to walk and hike a lot, learn a lot, laugh a lot, cry a little, and experience things you cannot even imagine at this point. I believe studying the biblical text in context will change your walk with Jesus forever. You will never be the same.
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“GTI Tours has been serving, listening to, and learning from their network of leaders and ministries for years—which is why their study tours are exceptional!“
Dr. Mark Strauss
Bethel Seminary Professor
More than simply a statement about pricing, “All Inclusive” describes GTI’s holistic approach to facilitating purposeful travel and experiential learning in cooperation with our Ministry Partners.
Your tour leader, study materials, and even itinerary are biblically focused, creating a journey that will draw you more deeply into God’s Word with each step you take.
Each stop on your itinerary is selected because it provides an experience than brings meaning and emotional significance to the information you will be learning.
There’s no need to worry about wasting time and money haggling or being surprised by hidden costs. Except for souvenirs and optional upgrades, every part of your trip is covered.
Our secure online payment and registration system allows for payment plans and reminders, easy passport and document uploads, and confidence that your money and information is safe.
Friends and family can receive daily updates of text, photos, audio, and video from you and other participants to keep up with where you are and what you’re learning via the GTI Online Tour Journal.
We take care of everything so you can stay focused during your Study Tour, including providing you with a hydration backpack, study guide, passport/ticket carrier, and even a flashlight (when the trip calls for it).
We have spent years developing relationships with experienced guides and drivers because they are an integral part of a study tour. And if you already have a trusted guide/driver you prefer that’s ok too!