Encounter life as it was known to ancient believers of Asia Minor, and view the ruins and landscapes that played a role in their day-to-day lives.
Two millenia ago, Jesus revealed himself to the Apostle John. The Word given to the Seven Churches of Asia is the same inspired scripture that teaches Christ's churches today.
You'll be accompanied by an expert guide alongside Jim Hamilton, Sam Emadi, and Alex Duke, trusted church leaders and hosts of the Bible Talk podcast, as you explore the depths of Scripture in the places that the Scripture speaks about.
Current students at The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary can earn academic credit by participating in this study tour. If you’re already enrolled at Southern Seminary, please contact Dr. Hamilton for more information about receiving course credit.
Southern Seminary students also enjoy $250 off the cost of the tour. Use promo code SBTSCREDIT when registering.
Not a current student but interested in theological education? Learn more about Southern Seminary at sbts.edu.
James M. Hamilton Jr. is Professor of Biblical Theology at Southern Seminary and Senior Pastor at Kenwood Baptist Church at Victory Memorial, both in Louisville, KY, where he lives with his wife and their five children. In addition to his biblical theology, God’s Glory in Salvation through Judgment, Jim has written Typology—Understanding the Bible's Promise-Shaped Patterns, and his most recent commentary is the two-volume work on Psalms in the EBTC series. With Alex Duke and Sam Emadi, Jim is part of the Bible Talk podcast team.
Sam Emadi serves as the Senior Pastor of Hunsinger Lane Baptist Church in Louisville KY where he lives with his wife Corrie Ann and four children. He is the author of From Prisoner to Prince: The Joseph Story in Biblical Theology as well as What Should I Do Now that I’m a Christian? And Who’s in Charge of the Church? Sam is also privileged and humbled to serve as part of the Bible Talk Podcast team.
Alex Duke (MDiv, The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary) is the editorial manager for 9Marks and the director of training and sending at Third Avenue Baptist Church in Louisville, Kentucky.
Fly to Izmir, Turkey (Ancient Smyrna), where you'll be greeted by your guide.
Overnight in Izmir
Start your journey with a tour of Smyrna, a principal city of the Roman Empire vying for the title "First City of Asia."
Then take a short drive to the sweeping views from the Acropolis of Pergamum, the city of mythological mystery.
After lunch, spend some time in Thyatira, where the Apostle Paul established a strong Christian community through his ministry.
Overnight in Izmir
Enjoy a scenic drive to Hermes Valley where you'll briefly stop to visit Philadelphia, the city of martyrs. Then spend the morning in Sardis, the place of myriad faiths, creeds, and empires.
Spend the afternoon driving through the beautiful countryside to Colossae, where you'll experience the site pre-excavation and get a better idea of what these places have looked like for centuries.
Overnight in Pamukkale
Spend the morning enjoying the beautiful scenery while crossing the Taurus Mountains on your journey north, followed by a tour of the ancient city of Laodicea, a picturesque reminder of the "lukewarm" church.
Later, explore Hierapolis, the land of hot springs, the illusion of snow, and one of the best-preserved ancient theaters in Turkey.
Enjoy a leisurely drive to the coast in the afternoon.
Overnight in Izmir
Spend the morning enjoying the ancient city of Ephesus, where the Apostle Paul’s School of Tyrannus unleashed the gospel of Jesus Christ throughout Asia.
Enjoy Turkish hospitality and culture for lunch with Osman, witnessing history through the craft of carpet weaving.
Then, visit one of the world’s oldest baptismals at St. John’s Basilica. Spend some time in the Ephesus museum, which houses the original statues of Artemis.
Overnight in Izmir followed by August 8 morning airport transfer
Departure from Izmir, Turkey (ADB)
Cancellations
Cancellations made before 60 days of departure: Full refund
Cancellations made within 45 days of departure: 75% refund
Cancellations made within 30 days of departure: 50% refund
Cancellations made within 15 days of departure: 25% refund
Cancellations made within 14 days of departure: No refund
Force Majeure
Enjoy Tours closely monitors the political situation in the Middle East. We are 100% attentive and committed to the safety of our travelers. If there is ever a cancellation of a trip for political or safety reasons, travelers will receive a full refund.
Administration Fee
In addition to the above cancellation policy, we charge a 5% processing fee for all refunds, no matter the date of cancellation. This fee is necessary to cover the costs associated with processing refunds, including bank fees and administrative expenses. We understand that sometimes travel plans change, and we appreciate your understanding of this policy.
Enrich your insight. Enjoy your tour.
