After all this had happened, Paul decided to go to Jerusalem, passing through Macedonia and Achaia. “After I have been there,” he said, “I must visit Rome also.”
Acts 19:21
Rome. What does that name conjure up in your mind? To those living around the Mediterranean in the first century AD, it represented the power ruling their world. Caesar ruled from Rome. It was a system that either served you, making you rich and enabling a good life. Or you were an oppressed people that had been conquered and heavily taxed, simply trying to eek out an existence. Or you were a slave going about your master’s business with no rights of your own. Whatever the case, there was a common message that went out to the empire: Caesar is lord.
I’ve been journeying throughout the ancient Biblical world for years, aiming to visit as much as I reasonably can. I’ve been to Israel many times, as well as visiting Jordan, Egypt, Turkey, and Greece. The last few years I’ve been looking for a good tour to Italy; that trip finally arrived. I had intended to write this while on my trip but time did not permit. I’ve now been back a week and able to catch my breath. It’s time to write.
As the Apostle Paul went around the eastern Mediterranean, he had a message to spread. The responses to that message would vary greatly. Some would laugh; others would be angry; still others would threaten or attack; others believed. His message was in stark contrast to what Caesar claimed. Paul declared that Jesus is lord. Those were controversial words then and remain so down to this day.
What was the world of ancient Rome like? What was it like for Paul as he went there? Why did he go? Stay tuned for my journey to the heart of the Roman Empire!
