It’s a reality with a colorful history dating back to ancient empires: Powerful leaders sometimes fall prey to grand delusions.

Competing philosophies put pressure on the early Christian church to change its doctrines and practices. One of these contenders was Gnosticism.

Though Paul is manacled to a Roman guard, he continues his ministry both in person and through letters to fellow believers in outlying provinces.

During the Christmas season, people hear the account of Mary’s role as the mother of Jesus, but little of what is popularly believed about Mary is from the Bible.

The prisoner Paul makes his way to Rome for a hearing before the famous Nero. But what might appear to be the end of the story is really just another beginning.