Papa, Uncle Scot and Church History

The same day my mom, sister Steph and nieces left, Marsha’s dad and our brother-in-law Scot arrived in Istanbul. While it was very difficult to say goodbye to the Drakes, we were excited to see “Papa” and “Uncle Sockey.” They did come, though, with a group from Midwestern Seminary, so they unfortunately did not get to spend a lot of time in Istanbul. I joined them and the rest of the group as we toured the sites of the seven churches of Revelation and some other historical biblical sites near the Aegean Sea. Below are some pictures from our time together, both at home in Istanbul and on our tour.

Noah and Levi can never get enough quality time with their Papa Tony.

Noah had fun both playing with his Uncle Scot and wearing Scot's glasses.

Noah was trying to look like Papa with his shirt, glasses and pen in the shirt.

Dr. Tomlinson (from MBTS) was acting like Jesus and cursing the fig tree.

The steepest seating of any known theater in the ancient world.

Standing on the ancient road in Ephesus leading to the Library of Celsus.

Pondering life, education and religion in front of the Library of Celsus.

Looking down into an ancient latrine and imagining 1st Century life.

This 44,000-seat theater is the location of the persecution in Acts 19:29ff.

Once one of the ancient wonders of the world, this is all that remains.

Scot enjoying an ancient latrine (pretending, of course) in Sardis.

These ancient hot springs and travertines in Pamukkale were incredible.

Once the focal point of Aphrodisias & later a Christian basilica.

No, this is not an ancient trash can, but it's always nice to have them around.

This ancient stadium was, in my opinion, the most impressive of all remains.

Dr. Wilder (MBTS, Lifeway) and our tour guide posing for a pic in Thyatira.