Roman Empire
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.
Roman Empire
Map Scattered Jews
Map Mark 4
Map of Nazareth, hometown of Jesus
Map for 1 Corinthians 16
Map for 1 Corinthians 16
Map for 1 Corinthians 16. Paul says he's going to take an offering. Not a 10% tithe. He says, "Give what you're able." Christians taught that Jewish laws, such as those requiring circumcision, tithing, and ritual cleansing for sin were no longer valid:
"Rules the Jews observed are now obsolete" (Ephesians 2:15). "God called this a new agreement. It replaced the old agreement, which became obsolete and is already on the verge of disappearing" (Hebrews 8:13).
"Give as you're able."
Bible Map of Paul’s Persecution
Bible Map of Paul's Persecution
Bible Map of Paul's Persecution. Paul's beatings, imprisonment throughout the Mediterranean world from Jerusalem to Rome.
Ministry, a dangerous business
Roman Empire
Map of Rome’s Mediterranean world
Map of Rome's Mediterranean world
Map of Rome's Mediterranean world in the time of Jesus, around AD 30.
Rome's Mediterranean world