Bible Verse: When in Rome Do As the Romans Do
The phrase “when in Rome do as the Romans do” comes from the fourth-century Bishop of Milan, St. Ambrose. The phrase is a play on words, rhyming with the phrase “if in alibi.” Whether you’re in the city to celebrate the Pope’s birthday or to fight an uprising, “when in Rome, do as the Romans do” will keep you from being arrested or jailed.
Paul’s time in Rome
Paul’s time in Rome is described in the Bible. Luke recounts Paul’s journey and his meeting with brethren in the region. He stayed with these people for about a week. A centurion was assigned to guard Paul and to take him to Rome. An imperial officer, Festus, also accompanied him.
As Paul travelled to Rome, he began by writing to the church at Corinth, where he had been living. He had a burning desire to visit Rome, but he had no idea how he would use his time there for evangelism.
Romans’ relationship with Judaism
The history of Roman relations with the Jews can be seen in many different ways. While the Roman authorities tried to suppress Judaism throughout the empire, they also protected the Jewish religious practices elsewhere. Several senatorial decrees were issued at the end of the Republic, guaranteeing Jewish religious practice in different parts of the empire. However, the most salient feature of Roman policy toward the Jews is that there were no universally accepted rules. Rather, magistrates reacted according to the circumstances.
In the late 2nd and early third centuries, the relationship between the Romans and Judaism underwent a dramatic change. Many Jews believed that the Roman Empire was the fourth empire appointed by God to rule Judea. This led to a rise in Messianic hopes. Antipater helped the Jews receive legal status under the Roman Empire and allowed the Jewish people to enjoy certain rights. At the same time, many Jews were unable to find a Messiah. This conflict in the relationship between the Roman Empire and Judaism led to the deterioration of the relationship between the two.
Their fear of Jesus
This bible verse asks Christians to be humble and to show respect for those who are more powerful than themselves. It tells them to return to the state the taxes they owe, custom duties, and honor. It also calls on Christians to live in such a way that they will be accepted by the society and be respected.
At first, Paul is not spoken of favorably. They fear he will be killed, but Paul is able to declare the gospel message. The Old Testament reference is from Philippians 2:17).
Their fasting customs
“When in Rome, do as the Romans do” is an old saying and the closest biblical equivalent to this phrase is Matthew 22:21. This cliche is often used to describe how to act in a foreign country. While Rome is considered a Christian nation, the phrase is applicable in many situations.
In the 4th century AD, the Roman Empire was on the brink of collapse, with two separate parts. The young Christian saint St Augustine, who had been studying rhetoric in the eastern Roman city of Milan, discovered that many members of his congregation did not fast on Saturdays. He was impressed and wrote down his experiences in a letter, and today, modern scholars can point to this event as the origin of the phrase.
Their misunderstandings with Paul
The Romans have several misconceptions about Paul and his mission. This leads to suspicions about Paul’s gentile mission. In the letter, Paul explains that God has invited non-Jews to share in the kingdom of God, without requiring them to follow Israel’s law.
Paul wanted to get the support of the Roman Christians, but they had heard rumors about what he was preaching. So, he explains his gospel in detail, hoping to prevent misunderstandings.