Encore Post: St. Paul had a special privilege by birth. He was a Roman citizen. The Roman general Mark Anthony gave his hometown, the city of Tarsus, the right of citizenship, which Caesar Augustus later confirmed. Anyone born in this city was treated as if they had been born in Rome itself. As a Roman citizen, He would have three names — a given name, probably Saulos — Saul — a Roman family name unknown to us and a co-name — Paulos — Paul. He was entitled to a fair trial before any punishment at all. He was exempt from certain punishments — including crucifixion. He had a right to trial by the bearer of imperial authority and to have his case heard before Caesar himself. It gave him status that made travel easier and allowed him influence he would not otherwise have.
The Book of Acts mentions several times that Paul claimed his rights as a Roman citizen. He would say, “civis Romanus sum” — “I am a Roman citizen.” When he was in Philippi and the magistrate, having had him beaten and imprisoned, tried to expel him from the city, Paul demanded the Magistrate show him respect due a citizen. He came personally, apologized and asked him nicely to leave the city. When the Sanhedrin tried to execute him, a centurion arrested him and proceeded to question him, intending to torture him by flogging. Paul asked if it was legal for them to do that to a Roman citizen, and one who was born one. That brought an end to the matter and the Tribune was determined to protect Paul. Paul would remain in the custody of two Roman governors until a trial was formally begun against him. He appealed to Caesar, which brought an end to the trial and sent him to Rome.
In his letters, Paul also talks about being a citizen of Heaven. We live our lives on Earth, but this is not our home. We are citizens of Heaven. One day, we will go home to live with God and all Christians forever. In the meantime, we live in this world, but follow the rules of Heaven.
Rev. Robert E. Smith
Concordia Theological Seminary
Fort Wayne, Indiana
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