Topical Encyclopedia IntroductionRome, the capital of the Roman Empire, holds a significant place in biblical history and theology. As the epicenter of political power and cultural influence during the time of the New Testament, Rome is often depicted as a symbol of worldly authority and human pride. The Bible addresses Rome in various contexts, particularly in the New Testament, where it serves as a backdrop for the spread of the Gospel and as a representation of God's judgment against sin. Rome in Biblical Context The city of Rome is mentioned directly and indirectly in several New Testament passages. The Apostle Paul, a Roman citizen by birth, wrote the Epistle to the Romans, addressing the believers in Rome and outlining the core tenets of Christian faith. In Romans 1:18-20 , Paul speaks of God's wrath against all ungodliness and unrighteousness: "The wrath of God is being revealed from heaven against all the godlessness and wickedness of men who suppress the truth by their wickedness. For what may be known about God is plain to them, because God has made it plain to them. For since the creation of the world God’s invisible qualities—His eternal power and divine nature—have been clearly seen, being understood from His workmanship, so that men are without excuse." Rome as a Symbol of Sin and Judgment In the Book of Revelation, Rome is often interpreted as the "Babylon" of the New Testament, a symbol of decadence, idolatry, and opposition to God. Revelation 17:5 describes Babylon as "a mystery: 'Babylon the Great, the mother of prostitutes and of the abominations of the earth.'" This imagery reflects the moral and spiritual corruption associated with Rome, which, despite its grandeur, stands under God's impending judgment. The fall of Rome is seen as a manifestation of divine justice. Revelation 18:2 declares, "Fallen, fallen is Babylon the great! She has become a lair for demons and a haunt for every unclean spirit, every unclean bird, and every detestable beast." This passage underscores the ultimate fate of any power that exalts itself against God and indulges in sin. Paul's Mission and the Spread of the Gospel Despite its association with sin, Rome also plays a crucial role in the spread of Christianity. The Apostle Paul, under divine commission, aimed to preach the Gospel in Rome, recognizing its strategic importance for the dissemination of Christian teachings. In Acts 23:11 , the Lord encourages Paul, saying, "Take courage! As you have testified about Me in Jerusalem, so also you must testify in Rome." Paul's journey to Rome, as recorded in the Book of Acts, highlights the tension between the earthly power of Rome and the divine authority of the Gospel. His eventual arrival in Rome, as a prisoner, symbolizes the triumph of God's Word over human institutions. In Philippians 1:12-14 , Paul writes from his Roman imprisonment, "Now I want you to know, brothers, that my circumstances have actually served to advance the gospel. As a result, it has become clear throughout the whole palace guard and to everyone else that I am in chains for Christ." Theological Implications The narrative of Rome in the Bible serves as a powerful reminder of God's sovereignty and the certainty of His judgment against sin. While Rome represents human achievement and authority, it also exemplifies the futility of opposing God's will. The biblical portrayal of Rome underscores the need for repentance and faith in Christ, who alone can deliver humanity from the bondage of sin and the wrath to come. In Romans 3:23-24 , Paul articulates the universal need for salvation: "For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, and are justified freely by His grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus." This message, delivered to the heart of the Roman Empire, affirms that God's grace is available to all who turn to Him in faith, transcending the power and influence of any earthly city or empire. Nave's Topical Index Romans 2:6Who will render to every man according to his deeds: Nave's Topical Index Romans 3:1 Library Upon the Collections , iv. Epistle Liv. To Cornelius, Concerning Fortunatus and Felicissimus ... Articles of Religion. The Scales of Judgment A Challenge and a Shield Letter Lii. From Theodoret, Bishop of Cyrus, to Leo. (See Vol. Iii ... Luther's Separation from Rome. Luther's Separation from Rome Index of Subjects. Our Status. Resources What does the Bible say about the pope / papacy? | GotQuestions.orgWhat was the Avignon Papacy / Babylonian Captivity of the Church? | GotQuestions.org Who was Gregory the Great? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Rome: Exhorted Humility, Love, and Good Works Rome: God's Judgment Against all Sin Rome: God's Supreme Power Over Everyone Rome: Jews Excluded From, by Claudius Caesar Rome: Justification by Faith in Jesus Christ Rome: Paul Desires to Preach In Rome: Paul Testifies the Gospel of Christ to Them Rome: Paul's Letter to the Christians In Rome: Requested to Greet Various Brethren Rome: The Condemnation of the Gentiles Rome: The Condemnation of the Jews Rome: The Righteousness the Law and of Faith Rome: The Works of the Flesh and the Spirit Related Terms |
    |