I Appeal To Caesar!

As Paul and company walk through the downtown area, on their way to the house of Philip the Evangelist on the outskirts of town, they are impressed by the many styles of dress and different languages, some of which they do not recognize. They also note the large army administrative offices filled with clerical workers; the city has many impressive buildings and warehouses. Merchants from throughout the Roman Empire handle their products in the marketplace. Paul cannot help but reflect on the comparison of this beautiful city with his hometown of Tarsus. This is indeed a Gentile city, and it is filled with ungodly, idolatrous things! Is there any presence of Christ in this Roman metropolis? * * * * * The home of Philip the Evangelist is not within the city itself. His rambling house is situated just outside the eastern city walls but close to one of the main gates. A Samaritan village exists in this area with a mixed population. The location gives the family proximity to the city’s amenities, but also makes it possible to have “house church” meetings without creating a problem with the Roman authorities. Since Philip is expecting guests, he has set up two tents on his back lot for their sleeping shelters. He is quite used to having traveling Christians drop in, and Christian house meetings as well. Phillip has been an active evangelist for thirty years! He is not a wealthy man in worldly goods, but the Lord has established him in a comfortable home where he lives with