This historic book may have numerous typos and missing text. Purchasers can usually download a free scanned copy of the original book (without typos) from the publisher. Not indexed. Not illustrated. 1861 edition. Excerpt: ... CHAPTER IV. The Bbitish Royal Family At Rome.--The Abima TH.EAN, OB FlBST Intboduction OF Chbistianity Into Britain. TTAVING thus established the British king and his -*- family in the Titulus, we turn our attention to St. Paul, who arrived at Rome for the first time on his appeal to Caesar, A.d. 58a. His previous history, as being familiar to every reader of the Scriptures, we omit, taking up its continuation where it becomes connected with that of our British ancestors. A strong Christian Church, celebrated for its zeal and fidelity, existed in Rome before the visit of St. Paul or any other apostle to it. We know, from many passages in the Epistle to the Romans itself, that at the time of its composition and despatch St. Paul had not yet been to Rome. Amongst the members of the Church, however, were some not only of the most intimate fellow-labourers and friends, but relatives of the Apostle. Some of the latter, such as Andronicus and Junia, had been converted before him. Herodion is mentioned as another kinsman. In connection with Rufus Pudens, who is saluted by name, occurs another salutation which originates an interesting question, the right solution of which would throw a flood of light on this part of the history both of Paul and Pudens-- "Salute Rufus chosen in the Lord, and his mother and mine." Does this mean natural or spiritual relationship? "We are inclined to believe the former. A spiritual father or mother is, in Gospel phraseology, the person who converts another to Christ. St. Paul's conversion was effected by Christ Himself by a direct miracle. With respect to him the terms could not be applied to any human being. Was, then, the mother of Rufus the mother also of Paul? Were Rufus and Paul half-brothers--the latter, the...