Δέρβη (Derbē)
Derbē
Derbe
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 3 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
Derbe was a city located in the region of Lycaonia, situated near the borders of Isauria and within the broader Roman province of Galatia. The name itself is of foreign origin, with ancient sources suggesting it may have meant "tanner" or referred to someone who worked with skins. This etymology hints at a local industry that likely defined the town’s character in the first century.
In the New Testament, Derbe appears exclusively in the Book of Acts, mentioned three times as a key stop on Paul’s missionary journeys. The city is noted as the easternmost point reached during his first journey (Acts 14:6, 20) and serves as a landmark when Paul and Silas travel through the region again (Acts 16:1). Its inclusion highlights the geographical extent of early Christian outreach into Asia Minor.
Although Derbe does not feature in theological discourses or parables, its historical presence underscores the rapid spread of the gospel across diverse cultural and linguistic boundaries. The city’s mention alongside Lystra and Iconium illustrates the network of urban centers through which early Christians moved, establishing communities that would later face both support and persecution.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
Derbe stands as the easternmost marker of Paul’s first missionary journey, a quiet city on the edge of known territory. Its mention in Acts reminds us that the early church did not stay within comfortable boundaries. The gospel moved into new lands, crossing cultural lines to reach people who had never heard the message before.
For believers today, this geographic detail offers encouragement. Your faith is part of a larger story that spans continents and generations. Even when you feel small or isolated, you are connected to a movement that has always sought to share hope across distances. The journey continues through those who carry the message forward.
Paul’s return to Derbe in Acts 16 shows that faithfulness often means revisiting old places with new strength. It was from this region that Timothy emerged, ready to join the team. God uses ordinary locations and unexpected people to build His work. We can trust that our own steps, however small, are part of this enduring plan.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 3 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- Derbe2×
- Derbe.1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- Δέρβην2×
- Δέρβην.1×
Key Verses
-
Acts 14:6
they became aware of it and fled to the cities of Lycaonia, Lystra, Derbe, and the surrounding region.
This verse marks the geographical limit of Paul's first journey, showing how far the message traveled into Lycaonia.
-
Acts 14:20
But as the disciples stood around him, he rose up, and entered into the city. On the next day he went out with Barnabas to Derbe.
Paul’s recovery and immediate return to Derbe demonstrate resilience and commitment despite recent opposition.
-
Acts 16:1
He came to Derbe and Lystra; and behold, a certain disciple was there, named Timothy, the son of a Jewess who believed, but his father was a Greek.
This reference highlights Derbe as the place where Timothy, a key future leader, was found and joined the mission.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Derbe and where was it located?
Why is Derbe important to understanding Paul's ministry?
Does Derbe have any theological significance beyond geography?
Every Occurrence (3 verses across 1 books)
Acts 3 verses
they became aware of it and fled to the cities of Lycaonia, Lystra, Derbe, and the surrounding region.
Acts 14:20But as the disciples stood around him, he rose up, and entered into the city. On the next day he went out with Barnabas…
Acts 16:1He came to Derbe and Lystra; and behold, a certain disciple was there, named Timothy, the son of a Jewess who believed,…