September 27, 2024 - Acts 22-28

Paul has been arrested at the temple, and he is allowed to speak to the people.  He told about his own training in the Jewish law and his standing among its leaders.  He acknowledged his persecution of the church.  But he also told about his conversion after the stoning of Stephen.  The people screamed at him, he was prepared for a flogging, but escaped the flogging when his jailers discovered he was a Roman citizen.  Brought before the council, he made his defense before the high priest, reasoned with Felix and told him the gospel, came before Festus, testified to Agrippa, and ultimately appealed to Caesar.  And so, he was off to Rome to appear before the emperor.   After embarking on the ship to Rome, Paul faced many trials, but eventually arrived in the great city

Imprisoned in Rome, people began to come to Paul in ever greater numbers (28:23).  For two years, Paul was there “and welcomed all who came to him, proclaiming the kingdom of God and teaching about the Lord Jesus Christ with all boldness and without hindrance” (28:30,31).  It just strikes me that, though the enemies of the gospel did all they could to hinder the servant of the Lord and his message, still the gospel was preached.  And not only in Jerusalem, but all the way to Rome!  Let those who oppose the gospel, today, fight it.  Still, it will be preached to the ends of the earth!

Challenge us, O God, our Father,

to the tasks that must be done

for your Church to find fulfillment

in the way taught by your Son.

With awareness of our purpose,

with commitment to your call,

may we help prepare the time

When Christ will reign as Lord of all.   -- Milburn Price (1970)