What was Miletum?

Miletum, also known as Miletus, was an ancient city located on the western coast of Asia Minor, near the mouth of the Maeander River in present-day Turkey. In biblical times, it was a prominent port city in the Roman province of Asia. The name Miletum is the Latin form, while the Greek name is Μίλητος (Miletos). Although not of Hebrew origin, the city plays a minor but meaningful role in the New Testament, particularly in connection with the ministry and travels of the Apostle Paul.

Biblical References

Miletum is mentioned directly in 2 Timothy 4:20 (NIV):

“Erastus stayed in Corinth, and I left Trophimus sick in Miletus.”

It is also referenced in Acts 20:15-17, where Paul calls for the elders of the church in Ephesus to meet him in Miletus:

“From Miletus, Paul sent to Ephesus for the elders of the church.” (Acts 20:17)

Other cross-references that help provide context include:

• Acts 21:29 – for background on Trophimus, a companion of Paul.

• Acts 18:23; 19:1 – for the broader missionary travels of Paul in Asia Minor.

Historical and Biblical Context

Miletum was an ancient Ionian city known for its philosophical and cultural contributions in the Greek world long before the New Testament era. By the time of Paul, it was a significant Roman city. It served as a frequent stopping point for ships traveling across the Aegean Sea.

In Acts 20, Paul stopped in Miletus on his third missionary journey. From there, he summoned the Ephesian elders and delivered a heartfelt farewell message, warning them of false teachers and exhorting them to be faithful shepherds (Acts 20:17-38). This address is one of the most emotional and pastoral moments recorded in the Book of Acts.

In 2 Timothy 4:20, Paul, near the end of his life, wrote to Timothy from prison and mentioned leaving Trophimus sick in Miletum. This note illustrates Paul’s humanity and the harsh realities of missionary work. Even though Paul was a great apostle, he could not heal at will and left a beloved co-laborer behind due to illness.

Theological Implications

God’s Sovereignty and Human Limitation

Paul’s reference to leaving Trophimus sick in Miletum reminds us that even apostles had to deal with suffering and limitations. Healing was not always immediate or guaranteed, and Paul’s actions were governed by divine providence. This shows that suffering and setbacks, even among God’s servants, are part of God’s mysterious will.

The Fellowship of the Church

Miletum also represents a place of spiritual transition and relational ministry. In Acts 20, Paul’s farewell to the Ephesian elders in Miletus shows deep love and concern for the church. It affirms the value of pastoral leadership, accountability, and emotional investment in the local church body.

Gospel Advancement Despite Obstacles

Though Trophimus was left behind, Paul continued to focus on spreading the gospel. Miletum becomes a symbol of the perseverance of the early church leaders. Suffering, delay, or illness did not stop the mission of Christ. The church advanced even through weakness and trials.

How Miletum Points to Jesus and the Gospel

Miletum does not have a direct connection to Jesus’ earthly ministry, but its role in Paul’s journeys contributes to the larger gospel narrative. The church’s spread into Gentile regions, the shepherding of local congregations, and the endurance of the saints in hardship all reflect Christ’s continuing work through His body—the Church.

Jesus, the Good Shepherd, laid down His life for the sheep and entrusted His apostles and elders to carry on His mission. In Miletus, Paul’s charge to the Ephesian elders echoes Christ’s call to “feed my sheep” (John 21:17). In Trophimus‘s illness, we see the suffering that believers may endure, reminding us of Christ’s own suffering on our behalf and His power made perfect in weakness (2 Corinthians 12:9).

Broader Biblical Themes

• Mission in Gentile Regions: Miletum is part of the broader narrative of the gospel reaching non-Jewish areas, fulfilling the Great Commission.

• Pastoral Care and Leadership: Paul‘s address to the Ephesian elders from Miletus highlights the importance of shepherding the flock with diligence.

• Suffering and Endurance: Trophimus‘s illness and Paul’s imprisonment serve as reminders that hardship is part of faithful service.

• The Church’s Unity and Love: The emotional parting between Paul and the elders at Miletus reflects the love and unity Christ prayed for in His followers (John 17).

Reflection Questions

1. What does Paul’s farewell in Miletus teach you about spiritual leadership and accountability?

2. How do you respond when plans are interrupted by illness or hardship, as in the case of Trophimus?

3. What role does love and grief play in your relationships within the church, as shown in Acts 20?

4. How can your life reflect the same urgency and dedication to the gospel that Paul displayed, even when facing imprisonment and trials?

5. What encouragement can you draw from the fact that even Paul experienced limitations and suffering in his ministry?

Miletum may only appear briefly in Scripture, but its role in the apostolic mission and its lessons on perseverance, leadership, and grace in weakness continue to speak powerfully to the church today.