Corinth

This map shows Corinth and its strategic location on the narrow Isthmus of Corinth, between the Gulf of Corinth to the west and the Saronic Gulf to the east. Because Corinth sat between two seas, it became an important center for trade, travel, and communication, with nearby ports at Lechaion and Cenchrea connecting it to both western and eastern routes. The map also shows the Diolkos, an ancient paved track used to move ships or cargo across the isthmus, helping Corinth become wealthy and influential. Corinth is especially important because the Apostle Paul ministered there during his second missionary journey, worked as a tentmaker, and helped establish the church to whom he later wrote 1 and 2 Corinthians. The city’s busy, prosperous, and morally complicated setting helps explain many of the spiritual challenges Paul addressed, including divisions, immorality, misuse of spiritual gifts, and the need to live faithfully for Christ in a worldly culture.