Where Is Antioch Today—And Why Is It Important to Christians?

Question: Where is the ancient city of Antioch located today, and what spiritual lessons can we learn from it?

Answer:
The city of Antioch, known today as Antakya, is located in the southern region of modern-day Turkey, near the border of northern Syria.

A City of Great Spiritual Significance

Antioch holds a central place in early Church history. It was the first major city where Gentiles (non-Jews) embraced the gospel of Jesus Christ in large numbers. While the Church began in Jerusalem, it was in Antioch that the followers of Jesus were first called “Christians.” This title wasn’t just a name—it reflected a new identity, one centered on belonging to Christ.

Acts 11:26
“And when he had found him, he brought him to Antioch. So it was that for a whole year they assembled with the church and taught a great many people. And the disciples were first called Christians in Antioch.”

This shows us that Christianity, though born in a Jewish context, quickly expanded into the wider world. The Church in Antioch became a spiritual gateway for the gospel to reach the nations.

Moreover, Antioch was a hub of spiritual activity. It hosted apostles, prophets, and teachers, and was the launching point of Apostle Paul’s first missionary journey—a mission that would eventually bring the gospel to Europe and beyond.

Acts 13:1–2
“Now in the church that was at Antioch there were certain prophets and teachers: Barnabas, Simeon who was called Niger, Lucius of Cyrene, Manaen… and Saul. As they ministered to the Lord and fasted, the Holy Spirit said, ‘Now separate to Me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them.’”

Paul and Barnabas, empowered by the Holy Spirit, went out from Antioch as pioneers of global missions. After completing one of their journeys, they returned to Antioch to give testimony of God’s grace:

Acts 14:26
“From there they sailed to Antioch, where they had been commended to the grace of God for the work which they had completed.”

Grace, Mission, and Perseverance

Antioch teaches us several key lessons:

Grace extends to all people.
Antioch reminds us that the gospel is not limited by culture or ethnicity. As the Apostle Paul later wrote:

Galatians 3:28
“There is neither Jew nor Greek… for you are all one in Christ Jesus.”
The Church must be mission-minded.
The Antioch church didn’t just focus inward. It sent people out to preach the gospel. True spiritual maturity always leads to gospel action.
Revival can be lost if not guarded.
Sadly, today the city of Antioch is mostly Muslim, and only a small number of Christians remain. A place that once birthed spiritual awakening has now become spiritually dark. This is a stark warning to all believers.

Revelation 3:11
“Behold, I am coming quickly! Hold fast what you have, that no one may take your crown.”
Spiritual greatness does not guarantee permanence.
Jesus warned that some who are first may end up last:

Mark 10:31
“But many who are first will be last, and the last first.”

This applies to churches and nations as well as individuals. A place may begin strong in the Spirit, but without faithfulness, its light can fade.

Recent Tragedy in Antioch

On February 6, 2023, Antioch (Antakya) was struck by a devastating earthquake, one of the deadliest in recent history. More than 55,000 people were killed, and many homes were destroyed. This disaster is a sober reminder of how fragile life is and how vital it is to live with eternity in view.

Hebrews 12:28
“Therefore, since we are receiving a kingdom which cannot be shaken, let us have grace, by which we may serve God acceptably with reverence and godly fear.”

Antioch stands as both an inspiration and a warning:
A city that once sent missionaries to the world is now in spiritual decline. As believers, we must hold fast to our faith, continue spreading the gospel, and finish our race well.