September 27, 2023 - Acts 26-28

“Then Paul stretched out his hand and began his defense: ‘I consider myself fortunate, King Agrippa, that today I am going to make a defense before you about everything I am accused of by the Jews’” (26:1,2). This is an eternal perspective, no doubt. In chains, pursued by his enemies who are intent on killing him, Paul considers it all a blessing because the situation gives him an opportunity to share the gospel.

After many hardships, Paul finally arrived in Rome: “From dawn to dusk he expounded and witnessed about the kingdom of God. . . . Some were persuaded by what he said, but others did not believe . . . he stayed two whole years in his own rented house. And he welcomed all who visited him, proclaiming the kingdom of God and teaching the things concerning the Lord Jesus Christ with full boldness and without hindrance” (28:23,24,30,31). The gospel got preached (that's not the best grammar, is it?), and that'’ what Paul was all about. That’s what gave him great joy. An eternal perspective indeed!

Jesus, the Savior, reigns,

The God of truth and love;

When He has purged our stains,

He took his seat above;

Lift up your heart,

Lift up your voice!

Rejoice, again I say, rejoice!

His kingdom cannot fail,

He rules o'er earth and heav’n;

The keys of death and hell

Are to our Jesus giv’n:

Lift up your heart,

Lift up your voice!

Rejoice, again I say, rejoice! --Charles Wesley (1744)