Rome in Bible History - Trustworthy Prophecy - Continue

 Josephus recorded what happened. In 66 C.E. when a Roman governor seized from the temple treasure taxes that were in arrears, incensed Jewish rebels slaughtered Roman forces and, in effect, declared themselves independent. Later that year, Cestius Gallus, the Roman governor of Syria, marched south with 30,000 troops, arriving at Jerusalem during a religious festival. Gallus penetrated the suburbs ad even began undermining the wall of the temple, where the rebels had taken refuse. Then for no apparent reason, Gallus withdrew! Excited Jews attacked his retreating army. 

Faithful Christians were not deceived by this turn of events.  They realized that they had seen Jesus' amazing prophecy come true: The city had been surrounded by encamped armies!  And now, because these armies retreated, faithful Christians took advantage of this window of opportunity to flee. Many went to Pella, a politically neutral Gentile city located in the mountains across the Jordan. 

Next time: Rome in Bible History -Trustworthy Prophecy - Conclusion

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