Paul Preaches in Rome
Opening Prayer
Dear Father, I praise You for this new day, a page in the present chapter of my life.
Read ACTS 28:17-31
[17]
Scripture taken from the THE HOLY BIBLE, NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION, NIV Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.® Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide.
Meditate
“How long will you people turn my glory into shame? How long will you love delusions and seek false gods?” (Psa. 4:2). We need Paul’s boldness in the face of apathy and rejection.
Think Further
Paul’s mission strategy was to go first to Jews and, once expelled from their synagogues, to turn to the Gentiles. So he called together the Jewish leaders in Rome to defend his innocence of any Jewish infringement of the Law or traditions and to assure them that he was guiltless according to Roman law. He maintained that his appeal to Caesar had been necessary, because of the “hope of Israel” (20). Jerusalem leaders hadn’t bothered to contact them first-hand, nor sent a delegation to present their accusations. They knew it would have no chance of success in the imperial court. Therefore these Jews seem curious as to why the Christians in general, and Paul in particular, were regarded with disfavor.
Later, a larger number met with Paul, who taught at length about Jesus and the kingdom of God, showing how he was the fulfillment of their Law and Prophets. It seems that the majority were not persuaded and in their attitude they embodied Isaiah’s commission (Isa. 6:9-10). They heard and saw but their hard hearts would not understand God’s word of salvation to them through Jesus. They rejected him. Luke concludes his narration by reaffirming to his readers and the Jews in Rome that the salvation of God was to be freely offered to Gentiles, who were already listening and responding.
Paul never gave up preaching the Gospel in spite of threats to his life, lies, injustice, imprisonment, persecution, violence, danger, apathy and rejection. He faithfully fulfilled his calling and boldly proclaimed Jesus as the Hope of Israel, the Savior of the world. How much more should we boldly take the same Gospel wherever we go! It may meet with opposition and we may suffer for our faithfulness, but the world needs to hear: Jesus’ salvation is still Good News for all.
Apply
Who are the people God has put in your life for you to bring the Good News of Jesus to? Pray, love and speak with them as he opens opportunities.
Closing prayer
Loving Lord, I ask for wisdom as I seek to share my faith. Give me a clear perception of those who are open and ready to hear the Good News.
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