Overview
Joppa was a coastal city in the territory of Dan (Joshua 19:46) and served as a major port for ancient Israel. It is most notably remembered as the place where the apostle Peter received his transformative vision on a rooftop, which prepared him to preach the gospel to Gentiles without the requirement of Jewish ceremonial laws.
Key Scriptures
"Peter went up on the roof about the sixth hour to pray. And he became hungry and wanted something to eat, but while they were preparing something, he fell into a trance" (Acts 10:9-10, ESV).
"Joshua allocated Joppa to the tribe of Dan" (Joshua 19:46, NIV).
"Peter stayed in Joppa for some time with a tanner named Simon" (Acts 9:43, NASB).
Application
Joppa reminds believers that God often works through unexpected places and visions to expand our understanding of His inclusive gospel message to all people.