Acts 27—28: Paul in Rome!
ROME AT LAST! Paul was innocent. He could have been a free man. But he had appealed to Caesar—and to Caesar he was to go. As we look at these last two chapters of Acts and complete our study of the life of this marvelous servant of God, it might be worthwhile to ask the questions Who was really free, and who were the real prisoners?
Warming Up to God
Sit quietly for a few moments, without trying to force your thoughts to move in any direction. Let silence reign in your heart before you look to Scripture.
Read Acts 27—28. »
Discovering the Word
- Though Paul had every reason by this time to become very self-centered, how do you see him continuing to minister to others throughout these two chapters (27:9-10, 21-25, 31-38, 42-43; 28:3, 8-9, 17-20, 23-31)?
- What do you see of Paul's compassion as he ministers?
- What do you think it says about Paul that Julius let him go see his friends (27:3)?
- What do you see of Paul's confidence in God throughout this passage?
- In conclusion, what from the book of Acts motivates and equips you to be a witness "to the ends of the earth" (1:8)?
Applying the Word
- What are the situations or relationships in your life with non-Christians in which you are tempted to give up on your proclamation of the gospel?
- What truths from this study of Acts encourage you to not give up?
- The words "Boldly and without hindrance he preached the kingdom of God and taught about the Lord Jesus Christ" (28:31) summarize not only Paul's two years in Rome, but his whole Christian life. To what degree would you like this to be a summary of your life? Explain.
Responding in Prayer
Thank God for the ways that he has taught you through the book of Acts. Ask him to continue to teach you as you try to live out the lessons you have learned.
For Further Study
The Message of Acts by John Stott