The Birth of the Christian ChurchSample

Paul arrived in Rome and was allowed to live in a home by himself, with a soldier guarding him. It has been years since he was arrested in Jerusalem, held captive in Caesarea, and then sailed on his journey to Rome. Paul knows that God has made his presence in Rome possible and chooses to honor God’s will and calling on his life, regardless of the consequences. Paul, the apostle to the Gentiles, has brought the gospel message to the most important city in the world.

If I am to go on living in the body, this will mean fruitful labor for me. Yet what shall I choose? I do not know! I am torn between the two: I desire to depart and be with Christ, which is better by far. (Philippians 1:22–23)