19. Caesarea and the Plain of Sharon to Carmel

Looking northward across the ancient seaport of Caesarea and the Plain of Sharon. Also in view along the top of the picture is the Carmel mountain range.

Significant Events: Elijah confronted the false prophets of Baal at Mount Carmel (1 Kgs. 18). The Via Maris (Way of the Sea), an important road in ancient times, lay to the east of Caesarea. After a remarkable vision while in Joppa, Peter began the ministry among the Gentiles by teaching a Roman centurion named Cornelius in Caesarea (Acts 10). Philip preached and lived here and had four daughters who prophesied (Acts 8:40; 21:8–9). Paul was a prisoner in the city for two years (Acts 23–26). He preached to Felix, Festus, and Herod Agrippa Ⅱ, who said, “Almost thou persuadest me to be a Christian” (Acts 26:28). (See BD Caesarea.)