4 June 2022
He lived there for two whole years at his own expense 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.
From Acts 28:16-20,30-31, NRSV
Paul finally reached Rome after an extended stay in Malta following a storm at sea and shipwreck. For two years he remained under house arrest but with the relative freedom of being allowed to teach all who came to him. Paul first called together the leading Jews to explain his situation. Some believed in what he was teaching whilst others did not. Although he was not permitted to travel, Paul reached many people, Jews and Gentiles during his time in Rome. We are told that he spoke from morning to night to anyone who came his way. He also wrote letters to churches in other places offering them encouragement and challenge. We are not told of the ending of Paul’s story in the Acts of the Apostles – perhaps that is because his story did not end. The work that Paul and the other apostles started continued and continues through the life of the church.
- How do you suppose Paul felt at being allowed to speak without hindrance?
- What can we take from the way Paul used his time whilst restricted in his movements?
Look for opportunities to follow Paul’s example of speaking with boldness about the Lord Jesus Christ.
Image – St. Paul – Rembrandt, WikiArt
