Acts 19:10

And this continued for the space of two years; so that all that dwelt in Asia heard the word of the Lord, both Jews and Greeks.

Paul previously had wanted to preach in Asia but was forbidden (Acts 16:6); now it was different, and tremendous success attended his efforts. De Welt believed that "The seven churches of Asia referred to in Revelation 1:4, as well as the church as Colossae (Colossians 1:2), were doubtless established at this time."[19] Joseph Benson agreed, saying:

The fame of the apostle's doctrine and miracles brought multitudes to Ephesus from distant parts; and these, being converted, preached the gospel in their own cities, and founded those churches which the apostle tells the Colossians had not seen him face to face (Colossians 2:1).[20]

Asia ... here means, not the continent, but the proconsular Roman province of Asia, of which Ephesus was the capital.

[19] Don DeWelt, op. cit., p. 258.

[20] Joseph Benson, One Volume New Testament Commentary (Grand Rapids, Michigan: Baker Book House, 1972), in loco.