For I am not ashamed of the Gospel. (Romans 1:16)

I want you to step into a time machine with me this morning. We're going to spend a few minutes today back in ancient Rome.

We are going to the place they call "the Eternal City." In this year of 54 or 58 A.D., Rome is certainly the most magnificent city this side of China. It is the hub and heartbeat of an empire from Europe to Africa to the edge of Asia. Everything we see in Rome gives the image of power and wealth.

First, we see the Roman army, marching in columns stretching as far as the eye can see. They are marching back into the city, fresh from another conquest in some far-off land. The people are cheering as the army passes by. Trumpets are sounding, swords and helmets glisten in the sunlight, banners wave in the breeze. The soldiers…