Paul’s Journey to Rome
God arranged a remarkable journey for Paul. He was sent to Rome at the Empire’s expense. As Acts 25:20-21 explains, “Since I was at a loss how to investigate this controversy, I asked if he were willing to go to Jerusalem… But when Paul appealed that he be held in custody for the Emperor’s decision, I ordered him held until I could send him to Caesar.” (Paul used his Roman citizenship to advance the Gospel.)
Paul’s mission continued despite imprisonment. Every step fulfilled God’s will.
Preaching Under Guard
Upon arriving in Rome, Paul lived under guard but not in chains of silence. Acts 28:16 tells us, “When he entered Rome, Paul was allowed to live by himself with the soldier who was guarding him.”
Three days later, he gathered the Jewish leaders. He began his defense, “My brothers, although I had done nothing against our people or our ancestral customs, I was handed over to the Romans as a prisoner from Jerusalem.” (He appealed directly to their shared heritage and faith.)
His message was clear and respectful, rooted in truth.
The Hope of Israel
Paul continued, “But when the Jews objected, I was obliged to appeal to Caesar, even though I had no accusation to make against my own nation. This is the reason, then, I have requested to see you… for it is on account of the hope of Israel that I wear these chains.” (He revealed the heart of his mission: proclaiming the Messiah.)
That hope was Jesus Christ. Paul boldly testified in the heart of the Empire. His presence stirred tensions, eventually leading the Emperor to expel the Jews from Rome. Among them were early Catholics who carried the Gospel even farther.
The Rock and the Church
Paul’s work laid foundations, but the Church was built on another rock. As Jesus said, “And so I say to you, you are Peter, and upon this rock I will build my church, and the gates of the netherworld shall not prevail against it. I will give you the keys to the kingdom of heaven.” (Matthew 16:18-19)
With Peter in Rome and Paul preaching nearby, the early Church’s structure took form. Paul’s obedience and courage supported Peter’s primacy and Christ’s command.
The true Church began spreading through persecution and grace, from the heart of the empire outward.
