Bithynia

Bithynia, a region in Asia Minor, where Paul attempted to go but was prevented by the Holy Spirit.

Bithynia was a region located in the northern part of Asia Minor, bordering the Black Sea. In Act.16.7, Paul and his companions attempted to enter Bithynia during his second missionary journey, but the Holy Spirit prevented them from doing so. The region is also mentioned in 1Pe.1.1 as one of the areas where the recipients of Peter's letter, the "elect exiles," were scattered. Bithynia was known for its fertile land and was a significant province in the Roman Empire.

A province in Asia Minor, to the south of the Euxine and Propontis. Christian congregations were here formed at an early time (1 Pet. 1:1). Paul was prevented by the Spirit from entering this province (Acts 16:7). It is noted in church history as the province ruled over by Pliny as Roman proconsul, who was perplexed as to the course he should take with the numerous Christians brought before his tribunal on account of their profession of Christianity and their conduct, and wrote to Trajan, the emperor, for instructions (A.D. 107).