Map of the Roman Empire in Bible times.
Jesus told the disciples, “I have been given complete authority over heaven and earth. And here’s what I want you to do. Go and make believers out of people everywhere. Go to all the nations. Baptize the people; and do it on behalf of the Father, Son, and the Holy Spirit. Teach the people to do everything I told you to do. And remember this. I am with you every day and all the way to the last day of this age.” (Matthew 28:19-20)
The Roman Empire was much of the known world for the disciples. Spreading the story of Jesus meant taking the news throughout the Empire and beyond. Paul, who came later, wanted to go as far as Spain, beyond the Empire.
