Paul's Second Imprisonment in Rome (aug 25, 64 – apr 30, 67)
Description:
Most of what we know about Paul's second imprisonment in Rome is found his second letter to Timothy.
Paul appeared before Nero some time during his first imprisonment in Rome. Soon after his release, Paul embarked on a fourth missionary journey, and was likely arrested again in Nicopolis. Though the exact reason for his arrest is uncertain, it is likely connected to the Great Fire of Rome, caused by Emperor Nero in July of AD 64 - for which the Christians were wrongfully blamed. Paul's second imprisonment is much different from his first, because this time, he is treated like a common criminal. After a preliminary hearing, he awaited his final trial; he expects to die soon as a result.
Before he dies, Paul asks Timothy, who is currently ministering in Ephesus, to come and visit him in Rome. He is to bring with him John Mark as well. He is also to make a stop in Troas to pick up his cloak and books and parchments that he left there with Carpus.
During his final imprisonment, Paul is visited/accompanied by a number of followers:
a. Luke, the doctor
b. Eubulus
c. Pudens
d. Linus
e. Claudia
f. Onesiphorus, who searched for Paul in prison and encouraged him; he later returned to Ephesus
g. it is possible that Timothy visited Paul
h. it is also possible that John Mark visited Paul as well
Paul did suffer loneliness, as many people either went to minister elsewhere or had deserted him altogether:
a. Erastus stayed in Corinth
b. Trophimus was left sick at Miletus
c. Titus had gone to Dalmatia
d. Crescens went to Galatia
e. Tychicus had been sent to Ephesus
f. Demas had deserted him and gone to Thessalonica
Paul was tried and found guilty, and was sentenced to death. He was led out of Rome and beheaded at the command of Emperor Nero.
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