To the Heart of the Empire

As Paul approached the outskirts of Rome, he was encouraged by the honor shown by the believers in coming to greet him. Being granted considerable freedom while under house arrest, he quickly called together a meeting of the local Jewish leaders, who were eager to hear from him. Paul seized the opportunity to share the gospel and convince them about Jesus from the Scriptures; some were persuaded, whilst others refused to believe. Paul emphatically declared that, despite Jewish resistance, the gospel would go forth and be received amongst the gentiles, to the very ends of the earth—a declaration that still holds true today.

Read Acts 28:14-31 and then consider:

1. Paul wasted no time in gathering together the local Jewish leaders, a strategy he used throughout his missionary journeys. What was important about this approach? How can you be more strategic in reaching those around you with the gospel?
2. Paul began his address to the Jewish leaders by explaining his arrest in Jerusalem and that he was "compelled to appeal to the emperor." Why had Paul appealed to the emperor? What was he hoping for?
3. Notice how Paul’s language shifted from seeking to connect with the Jewish leaders (e.g., "our people" and "our ancestors" in verse 17) to distancing himself from them (e.g., "your ancestors" in verse 25). What caused the shift? What was the heart of his message to those who refused to believe?
4. The book of Acts ends with Paul proclaiming and teaching "with all boldness and without hindrance." How does this encourage us as we seek to continue sharing the gospel to the ends of the earth?