Come Go with us, April 2027

Why Italy?

Rome was the plan. The Romans built a sophisticated infrastructure to allow them to conquer and control. But God.  God had a need for roads and shipping routes. He goal was to facilitate the spread of the Gospel - in Godspeed. 

Italy, particularly Rome, was a important to this mission.  Paul's journey to Rome, not without drama, was filled with peril and swift transitions, but it demonstrates the determination of early Christians. Like them we too bear witness that faith is the main ingredient in the heart of political upheaval. 

Hebrews 13:24: Salute all them that have the rule over you, and all the saints. They of Italy salute you.

This verse reflects the communication and fellowship among early Christians across the Roman Empire. The mention of They of Italy salute you indicates a connection between the believers in Italy and those elsewhere, highlighting the unity and shared faith among early Christians despite geographic separation.

Journey to Italy
Acts 27:6: And there the centurion found a ship of Alexandria sailing into Italy; and he put us therein.  
Acts 27:27: And when it was determined that we should sail into Italy, they delivered Paul and certain other prisoners unto one named Julius, a centurion of Augustus' band.

The Book of Acts provides a narrative of Paul's eventful journey to Rome. Italy, as the heart of the Roman Empire, held significant political and cultural importance. These passages underscore the logistical realities of ancient travel and the spread of Christianity through major urban centers.

Cornelius the Centurion
Acts 10:1: There was a certain man in Caesarea called Cornelius, a centurion of the band called the Italian band,

Cornelius, a Roman centurion, is a pivotal figure in the book of Acts due to his conversion and subsequent baptism by Peter. His inclusion within the faith community illustrates the breaking of ethnic and religious barriers, emphasizing that the message of Jesus was for all people, including those from the Italian peninsula.

Strangers of Rome
Acts 2:10: Phrygia, and Pamphylia, in Egypt, and in the parts of Libya about Cyrene, and strangers of Rome, Jews and proselytes,

The reference to strangers of Rome at Pentecost signifies the presence of Roman visitors in Jerusalem who witnessed the outpouring of the Holy Spirit. This event marks the beginning of the global mission of the church, with these Romans likely playing a crucial role in bringing the new faith back to Italy.

Early Christians from Italy
Acts 18:2: And found a certain Jew named Aquila, born in Pontus, lately come from Italy, with his wife Priscilla; (because that Claudius had commanded all Jews to depart from Rome:) and came unto them.

Aquila and Priscilla are notable early Christians who were expelled from Rome by an edict of Emperor Claudius. Their story reflects the Jewish diaspora's experiences and the spread of Christianity through personal relationships and relocations.

Paul's Roman Audience
Romans 1:7: To all that be in Rome, beloved of God, called to be saints: Grace to you and peace from God our Father, and the Lord Jesus Christ.

The Epistle to the Romans addresses the Christians in Rome, providing theological instruction and encouragement. This letter is foundational in Christian theology and showcases the importance of the Roman Christian community in the broader narrative of the New Testament. 

(Scripture references: The Digital Bible is powered AI technology. Using GPT-4)