Historical Details Lesson 6 Sample

by Glenn
(Prince George)

Historical Details gleaned from Acts 8-10 Students: Do not read until you have completed your Lesson 6.

The Christians were all Jews at this time. Rome was not persecuting the Church, but non-believing Jews were. Paul/Saul was one of the chief instigators. Because of the persecution in Jerusalem, Christians were scattered to other towns. The High Priest/chief priests supported this persecution. The High Priest had the authority and power to have people arrested and put into prison. After Saul converted, the Jews in Damascus plotted to murder him - it was a time violence against any who opposed Judaism. After Saul as converted and removed from the scene the persecution died down for a time.

Jews maintained or had access to prisons in Jerusalem.

Paul/Saul originally came from Tarsus and returned there after his conversion.

Christianity was known as the Way.

There were Jewish synagogues in Damascus. There was street in Damascus called Straight Street which had some residences on it. Damascus was a walled city with, at least, one hole in the wall.

The apostles, as the leaders of the church, kept their headquarters in Jerusalem.
Christians went to and preached in: Samaria, many Samaritan villages, Azotus, Caesarea and many towns in the region, Lydda, throughout Judea, Galilee, Sharon, Joppa - near Lydda.

Many miracles were done at this time by believers - not just the apostles.

Sorcery was practiced and accepted in some cities.

Gaza is south from Jerusalem along the desert road.

Caesarea was a seaport. The Roman Italian Regiment, with a centurion named Cornelius, was stationed at Ceasarea.

A Roman soldier, at least at the centurion level, was able to maintain his own house, have his family with him, and employ servants. He also appears free as to his religious beliefs.

Candace is queen of the Ethiopians, her treasurer is a convert to Judaism. High officials in Candace?s court were eunuchs. High officials could read.

At least some houses were two stories. Roofs were flat and designed so people could go on them.

Hide tanning was one of the professions practiced at Joppa. 1/2 - 1 1/2 day trip from Joppa to Ceasarea. Simon the tanner and Tabitha /Dorcas lived in Joppa. Joppa was by the sea.

Some Romans were respected by the Jewish people.

Christian Jews still followed the dietary and other laws.

Jews did not associate with or visit Gentiles.

Gentiles were baptized in water and the Holy Spirit for the first time.

Jews buried and mourned their dead. Jews were able to read.