Antioch, in the biblical context, refers primarily to a significant city in ancient Syria, known for being a pivotal center for early Christianity. The name "Antioch" is derived from its founder, Seleucus I Nicator, who named it after his father, Antiochus. The city is mentioned multiple times in the New Testament, notably in Acts 11:19-26, where it becomes the first place where the followers of Jesus were called "Christians." This reflects Antioch's role as a melting pot of diverse cultures and ideologies, facilitating the spread of the Gospel beyond Jewish communities to Gentiles.Additionally, Antioch served as a base for Paul’s missionary journeys (Acts 13:1-3), highlighting its importance in the early church's expansion. The church in Antioch was characterized by a strong leadership and a vibrant community of believers, which played a crucial role in shaping the theological and missional direction of early Christianity. The mention of Antioch in the context of the early church is significant for understanding the transition from a predominantly Jewish faith to a global movement, as it was there that the church began to embrace its mission to all nations (Matthew 28:19-20).