2. IntroductionIntroduction In our last episode, the Alexandrian ship Paul had been on was wrecked on a sandbar off the coast of Malta.In our last episode, the Alexandrian ship Paul had been on was wrecked on a sandbar off the coast of Malta. All hands made it to shore safely.All hands made it to shore safely. In this episode, the final installment of our story, Paul spends three months on the island healing the people and preaching the gospel.In this episode, the final installment of our story, Paul spends three months on the island healing the people and preaching the gospel. Then he and his company will catch a ship to Italy.Then he and his company will catch a ship to Italy. In our last episode, the Alexandrian ship Paul had been on was wrecked on a sandbar off the coast of Malta.In our last episode, the Alexandrian ship Paul had been on was wrecked on a sandbar off the coast of Malta. All hands made it to shore safely.All hands made it to shore safely. In this episode, the final installment of our story, Paul spends three months on the island healing the people and preaching the gospel.In this episode, the final installment of our story, Paul spends three months on the island healing the people and preaching the gospel. Then he and his company will catch a ship to Italy.Then he and his company will catch a ship to Italy.  Malta, where Paul was shipwrecked

3. Acts 28:1-4Acts 28:1-4 28:1 Once safely on shore, we found out that the island was called Malta. 2 The islanders showed us unusual kindness. They built a fire and welcomed us all because it was raining and cold. 3 Paul gathered a pile of brushwood and, as he put it on the fire, a viper, driven out by the heat, fastened itself on his hand.28:1 Once safely on shore, we found out that the island was called Malta. 2 The islanders showed us unusual kindness. They built a fire and welcomed us all because it was raining and cold. 3 Paul gathered a pile of brushwood and, as he put it on the fire, a viper, driven out by the heat, fastened itself on his hand. Acts 28:1-4Acts 28:1-4 28:1 Once safely on shore, we found out that the island was called Malta. 2 The islanders showed us unusual kindness. They built a fire and welcomed us all because it was raining and cold. 3 Paul gathered a pile of brushwood and, as he put it on the fire, a viper, driven out by the heat, fastened itself on his hand.28:1 Once safely on shore, we found out that the island was called Malta. 2 The islanders showed us unusual kindness. They built a fire and welcomed us all because it was raining and cold. 3 Paul gathered a pile of brushwood and, as he put it on the fire, a viper, driven out by the heat, fastened itself on his hand.

4. Acts 28:4-6Acts 28:4-6 4 When the islanders saw the snake hanging from his hand, they said to each other, "This man must be a murderer; for though he escaped from the sea, Justice has not allowed him to live." 5 But Paul shook the snake off into the fire and suffered no ill effects. 6 The people expected him to swell up or suddenly fall dead, but after waiting a long time and seeing nothing unusual happen to him, they changed their minds and said he was a god.4 When the islanders saw the snake hanging from his hand, they said to each other, "This man must be a murderer; for though he escaped from the sea, Justice has not allowed him to live." 5 But Paul shook the snake off into the fire and suffered no ill effects. 6 The people expected him to swell up or suddenly fall dead, but after waiting a long time and seeing nothing unusual happen to him, they changed their minds and said he was a god. Acts 28:4-6Acts 28:4-6 4 When the islanders saw the snake hanging from his hand, they said to each other, "This man must be a murderer; for though he escaped from the sea, Justice has not allowed him to live." 5 But Paul shook the snake off into the fire and suffered no ill effects. 6 The people expected him to swell up or suddenly fall dead, but after waiting a long time and seeing nothing unusual happen to him, they changed their minds and said he was a god.4 When the islanders saw the snake hanging from his hand, they said to each other, "This man must be a murderer; for though he escaped from the sea, Justice has not allowed him to live." 5 But Paul shook the snake off into the fire and suffered no ill effects. 6 The people expected him to swell up or suddenly fall dead, but after waiting a long time and seeing nothing unusual happen to him, they changed their minds and said he was a god.

5. What statement had Jesus made that was fulfilled in this verse (Acts 28:5)? What statement had Jesus made that was fulfilled in this verse (Acts 28:5)? Mark 16:18;

6. In what other incident had the people thought Paul was a God (28:6)? In what other incident had the people thought Paul was a God (28:6)? Acts 14:8-16 11 “When the crowd saw what Paul had done, they shouted in the Lycaonian language, "The gods have come down to us in human form!" 12 Barnabas they called Zeus, and Paul they called Hermes because he was the chief speaker.”

7. Malta, an island just south of Sicily, is today a nation composed of Malta, the largest island, and several smaller ones. It is a member of the European Union.Malta, an island just south of Sicily, is today a nation composed of Malta, the largest island, and several smaller ones. It is a member of the European Union.Malta God’s special blessings came to this island because of their unusual kindness and because Paul was there.God’s special blessings came to this island because of their unusual kindness and because Paul was there. When the viper bit Paul, seeing him in chains, they thought he was a murderer escaped from the sea who was now getting what he deserved.When the viper bit Paul, seeing him in chains, they thought he was a murderer escaped from the sea who was now getting what he deserved. Malta, an island just south of Sicily, is today a nation composed of Malta, the largest island, and several smaller ones. It is a member of the European Union.Malta, an island just south of Sicily, is today a nation composed of Malta, the largest island, and several smaller ones. It is a member of the European Union.Malta God’s special blessings came to this island because of their unusual kindness and because Paul was there.God’s special blessings came to this island because of their unusual kindness and because Paul was there. When the viper bit Paul, seeing him in chains, they thought he was a murderer escaped from the sea who was now getting what he deserved.When the viper bit Paul, seeing him in chains, they thought he was a murderer escaped from the sea who was now getting what he deserved.

8. The people knew that the venom of this particular kind of snake was deadly to humans.The people knew that the venom of this particular kind of snake was deadly to humans. They expected Paul to swell up and drop dead.They expected Paul to swell up and drop dead. When they saw that the snake venom did not affect Paul, they changed their minds and thought he must have divine powers, which of course he did, as an Apostle of Christ.When they saw that the snake venom did not affect Paul, they changed their minds and thought he must have divine powers, which of course he did, as an Apostle of Christ. The people knew that the venom of this particular kind of snake was deadly to humans.The people knew that the venom of this particular kind of snake was deadly to humans. They expected Paul to swell up and drop dead.They expected Paul to swell up and drop dead. When they saw that the snake venom did not affect Paul, they changed their minds and thought he must have divine powers, which of course he did, as an Apostle of Christ.When they saw that the snake venom did not affect Paul, they changed their minds and thought he must have divine powers, which of course he did, as an Apostle of Christ. The Viper (snake) hangs on Paul’s hand.

9. Acts 28:7-10Acts 28:7-10 7 There was an estate nearby that belonged to Publius, the chief official of the island. He welcomed us to his home and for three days entertained us hospitably. 8 His father was sick in bed, suffering from fever and dysentery. Paul went in to see him and, after prayer, placed his hands on him and healed him. 9 When this had happened, the rest of the sick on the island came and were cured. 10 They honored us in many ways and when we were ready to sail, they furnished us with the supplies we needed.7 There was an estate nearby that belonged to Publius, the chief official of the island. He welcomed us to his home and for three days entertained us hospitably. 8 His father was sick in bed, suffering from fever and dysentery. Paul went in to see him and, after prayer, placed his hands on him and healed him. 9 When this had happened, the rest of the sick on the island came and were cured. 10 They honored us in many ways and when we were ready to sail, they furnished us with the supplies we needed. Acts 28:7-10Acts 28:7-10 7 There was an estate nearby that belonged to Publius, the chief official of the island. He welcomed us to his home and for three days entertained us hospitably. 8 His father was sick in bed, suffering from fever and dysentery. Paul went in to see him and, after prayer, placed his hands on him and healed him. 9 When this had happened, the rest of the sick on the island came and were cured. 10 They honored us in many ways and when we were ready to sail, they furnished us with the supplies we needed.7 There was an estate nearby that belonged to Publius, the chief official of the island. He welcomed us to his home and for three days entertained us hospitably. 8 His father was sick in bed, suffering from fever and dysentery. Paul went in to see him and, after prayer, placed his hands on him and healed him. 9 When this had happened, the rest of the sick on the island came and were cured. 10 They honored us in many ways and when we were ready to sail, they furnished us with the supplies we needed. Paul heals the father of Publius.

10. As Jesus did during His ministry, Paul healed everyone who came to him, beginning with the father of Publius.As Jesus did during His ministry, Paul healed everyone who came to him, beginning with the father of Publius. I don’t think there was a sick person on the island the three months Paul was there.I don’t think there was a sick person on the island the three months Paul was there. in appreciation for all he had done for them, the Maltese honored Paul and his company and furnished everything they needed for their journey to Rome.in appreciation for all he had done for them, the Maltese honored Paul and his company and furnished everything they needed for their journey to Rome. As Jesus did during His ministry, Paul healed everyone who came to him, beginning with the father of Publius.As Jesus did during His ministry, Paul healed everyone who came to him, beginning with the father of Publius. I don’t think there was a sick person on the island the three months Paul was there.I don’t think there was a sick person on the island the three months Paul was there. in appreciation for all he had done for them, the Maltese honored Paul and his company and furnished everything they needed for their journey to Rome.in appreciation for all he had done for them, the Maltese honored Paul and his company and furnished everything they needed for their journey to Rome. Paul heals the sick on Malta

11. Acts 28:11-13Acts 28:11-13 11 After three months we put out to sea in a ship that had wintered in the island. It was an Alexandrian ship with the figurehead of the twin gods Castor and Pollux. 12 We put in at Syracuse and stayed there three days. 13 From there we set sail and arrived at Rhegium. The next day the south wind came up, and on the following day we reached Puteoli.11 After three months we put out to sea in a ship that had wintered in the island. It was an Alexandrian ship with the figurehead of the twin gods Castor and Pollux. 12 We put in at Syracuse and stayed there three days. 13 From there we set sail and arrived at Rhegium. The next day the south wind came up, and on the following day we reached Puteoli. Acts 28:11-13Acts 28:11-13 11 After three months we put out to sea in a ship that had wintered in the island. It was an Alexandrian ship with the figurehead of the twin gods Castor and Pollux. 12 We put in at Syracuse and stayed there three days. 13 From there we set sail and arrived at Rhegium. The next day the south wind came up, and on the following day we reached Puteoli.11 After three months we put out to sea in a ship that had wintered in the island. It was an Alexandrian ship with the figurehead of the twin gods Castor and Pollux. 12 We put in at Syracuse and stayed there three days. 13 From there we set sail and arrived at Rhegium. The next day the south wind came up, and on the following day we reached Puteoli. The Gemini Twins, Castor and Pollux (Rome) )

12. Many ships from Alexandria must have been plying the Mediterranean in those days. The marooned passengers board another Alexandrian ship for Italy. This time they make it there.Many ships from Alexandria must have been plying the Mediterranean in those days. The marooned passengers board another Alexandrian ship for Italy. This time they make it there. Their first landfall is at Syracuse, where they stay three days, then move on to Rhegium. The next day a south wind blows them to Puteoli where some of the Christian brothers met them.Their first landfall is at Syracuse, where they stay three days, then move on to Rhegium. The next day a south wind blows them to Puteoli where some of the Christian brothers met them. Many ships from Alexandria must have been plying the Mediterranean in those days. The marooned passengers board another Alexandrian ship for Italy. This time they make it there.Many ships from Alexandria must have been plying the Mediterranean in those days. The marooned passengers board another Alexandrian ship for Italy. This time they make it there. Their first landfall is at Syracuse, where they stay three days, then move on to Rhegium. The next day a south wind blows them to Puteoli where some of the Christian brothers met them.Their first landfall is at Syracuse, where they stay three days, then move on to Rhegium. The next day a south wind blows them to Puteoli where some of the Christian brothers met them. Syracuse is on the island of Sicily.

13. Acts 28:14-16Acts 28:14-16 14 There we found some brothers who invited us to spend a week with them. And so we came to Rome. 15 The brothers there had heard that we were coming, and they traveled as far as the Forum of Appius and the Three Taverns to meet us. At the sight of these men Paul thanked God and was encouraged. 16 When we got to Rome, Paul was allowed to live by himself, with a soldier to guard him.14 There we found some brothers who invited us to spend a week with them. And so we came to Rome. 15 The brothers there had heard that we were coming, and they traveled as far as the Forum of Appius and the Three Taverns to meet us. At the sight of these men Paul thanked God and was encouraged. 16 When we got to Rome, Paul was allowed to live by himself, with a soldier to guard him. Acts 28:14-16Acts 28:14-16 14 There we found some brothers who invited us to spend a week with them. And so we came to Rome. 15 The brothers there had heard that we were coming, and they traveled as far as the Forum of Appius and the Three Taverns to meet us. At the sight of these men Paul thanked God and was encouraged. 16 When we got to Rome, Paul was allowed to live by himself, with a soldier to guard him.14 There we found some brothers who invited us to spend a week with them. And so we came to Rome. 15 The brothers there had heard that we were coming, and they traveled as far as the Forum of Appius and the Three Taverns to meet us. At the sight of these men Paul thanked God and was encouraged. 16 When we got to Rome, Paul was allowed to live by himself, with a soldier to guard him. Ruins of the Forum

14. After spending a week with the brothers at Puteoli, Paul and his company went on to Rome.After spending a week with the brothers at Puteoli, Paul and his company went on to Rome. They were met on the way by Christians from Rome who had heard he was coming and went to meet him, coming as far as the Forum and Three Taverns.They were met on the way by Christians from Rome who had heard he was coming and went to meet him, coming as far as the Forum and Three Taverns. This means there were Christian brothers waiting in both these places to meet Paul on his journey to Rome.This means there were Christian brothers waiting in both these places to meet Paul on his journey to Rome. After spending a week with the brothers at Puteoli, Paul and his company went on to Rome.After spending a week with the brothers at Puteoli, Paul and his company went on to Rome. They were met on the way by Christians from Rome who had heard he was coming and went to meet him, coming as far as the Forum and Three Taverns.They were met on the way by Christians from Rome who had heard he was coming and went to meet him, coming as far as the Forum and Three Taverns. This means there were Christian brothers waiting in both these places to meet Paul on his journey to Rome.This means there were Christian brothers waiting in both these places to meet Paul on his journey to Rome.

15. At Rome Paul was allowed to rent his own private residence and invite anyone he chose to come to his house.At Rome Paul was allowed to rent his own private residence and invite anyone he chose to come to his house. He must have been required to be bound with a chain because he mentions it later.He must have been required to be bound with a chain because he mentions it later. And he was guarded by a single soldier. I think this was more formality than necessity. He was there at his own request.And he was guarded by a single soldier. I think this was more formality than necessity. He was there at his own request. At Rome Paul was allowed to rent his own private residence and invite anyone he chose to come to his house.At Rome Paul was allowed to rent his own private residence and invite anyone he chose to come to his house. He must have been required to be bound with a chain because he mentions it later.He must have been required to be bound with a chain because he mentions it later. And he was guarded by a single soldier. I think this was more formality than necessity. He was there at his own request.And he was guarded by a single soldier. I think this was more formality than necessity. He was there at his own request. Paul is welcomed in Rome by the brothers.

16. Acts 28:17-18Acts 28:17-18 17 Three days later he called together the leaders of the Jews. When they had assembled, Paul said to them: "My brothers, although I have done nothing against our people or against the customs of our ancestors, I was arrested in Jerusalem and handed over to the Romans. 18 They examined me and wanted to release me, because I was not guilty of any crime deserving death.17 Three days later he called together the leaders of the Jews. When they had assembled, Paul said to them: "My brothers, although I have done nothing against our people or against the customs of our ancestors, I was arrested in Jerusalem and handed over to the Romans. 18 They examined me and wanted to release me, because I was not guilty of any crime deserving death. Acts 28:17-18Acts 28:17-18 17 Three days later he called together the leaders of the Jews. When they had assembled, Paul said to them: "My brothers, although I have done nothing against our people or against the customs of our ancestors, I was arrested in Jerusalem and handed over to the Romans. 18 They examined me and wanted to release me, because I was not guilty of any crime deserving death.17 Three days later he called together the leaders of the Jews. When they had assembled, Paul said to them: "My brothers, although I have done nothing against our people or against the customs of our ancestors, I was arrested in Jerusalem and handed over to the Romans. 18 They examined me and wanted to release me, because I was not guilty of any crime deserving death.

17. What had Paul done to illustrate the fact that he was willing to live according to Jewish custom (28:17)? What had Paul done to illustrate the fact that he was willing to live according to Jewish custom (28:17)? Acts 18:18; Paul stayed on in Corinth for some time. Then he left the brothers and sailed for Syria, accompanied by Priscilla and Aquila. Before he sailed, he had his hair cut off at Cenchrea because of a vow he had taken." (NIV) 1Cor 9:19-22; 19 Though I am free and belong to no man, I make myself a slave to everyone, to win as many as possible. 20 To the Jews I became like a Jew, to win the Jews.. 22... I have become all things to all men so that by all possible means I might save some. (NIV)

18. Acts 28:19-20Acts 28:19-20 19 But when the Jews objected, I was compelled to appeal to Caesar-not that I had any charge to bring against my own people. 20 For this reason I have asked to see you and talk with you. It is because of the hope of Israel that I am bound with this chain."19 But when the Jews objected, I was compelled to appeal to Caesar-not that I had any charge to bring against my own people. 20 For this reason I have asked to see you and talk with you. It is because of the hope of Israel that I am bound with this chain." Acts 28:19-20Acts 28:19-20 19 But when the Jews objected, I was compelled to appeal to Caesar-not that I had any charge to bring against my own people. 20 For this reason I have asked to see you and talk with you. It is because of the hope of Israel that I am bound with this chain."19 But when the Jews objected, I was compelled to appeal to Caesar-not that I had any charge to bring against my own people. 20 For this reason I have asked to see you and talk with you. It is because of the hope of Israel that I am bound with this chain."

19. 28:20: What was the “hope of Israel”? Acts 23:6 Then Paul, knowing that some of them were Sadducees and the others Pharisees, called out in the Sanhedrin, "My brothers, I am a Pharisee, the son of a Pharisee. I stand on trial because of my hope in the resurrection of the dead." (NIV)

20. Acts 26:6-8“And now it is because of my hope in what God has promised our fathers that I am on trial today. 7 This is the promise our twelve tribes are hoping to see fulfilled as they earnestly serve God day and night. O King, it is because of this hope that the Jews are accusing me. 8 Why should any of you consider it incredible that God raises the dead?” (NIV)

21. Paul explains why he was attacked by the Jews in Palestine and why he has come to Rome.Paul explains why he was attacked by the Jews in Palestine and why he has come to Rome. He had no charges to bring before Caesar against the Jews. He was compelled to appeal to Caesar to save his life and to get to Rome.He had no charges to bring before Caesar against the Jews. He was compelled to appeal to Caesar to save his life and to get to Rome. Paul always goes to the Jews first when he comes to a new city to preach the gospel. Some always accept the gospel but most Jews will not.Paul always goes to the Jews first when he comes to a new city to preach the gospel. Some always accept the gospel but most Jews will not. Paul explains why he was attacked by the Jews in Palestine and why he has come to Rome.Paul explains why he was attacked by the Jews in Palestine and why he has come to Rome. He had no charges to bring before Caesar against the Jews. He was compelled to appeal to Caesar to save his life and to get to Rome.He had no charges to bring before Caesar against the Jews. He was compelled to appeal to Caesar to save his life and to get to Rome. Paul always goes to the Jews first when he comes to a new city to preach the gospel. Some always accept the gospel but most Jews will not.Paul always goes to the Jews first when he comes to a new city to preach the gospel. Some always accept the gospel but most Jews will not.

22. Acts 28:21-22Acts 28:21-22 21 They replied, "We have not received any letters from Judea concerning you, and none of the brothers who have come from there has reported or said anything bad about you. 22 But we want to hear what your views are, for we know that people everywhere are talking against this sect."21 They replied, "We have not received any letters from Judea concerning you, and none of the brothers who have come from there has reported or said anything bad about you. 22 But we want to hear what your views are, for we know that people everywhere are talking against this sect." Acts 28:21-22Acts 28:21-22 21 They replied, "We have not received any letters from Judea concerning you, and none of the brothers who have come from there has reported or said anything bad about you. 22 But we want to hear what your views are, for we know that people everywhere are talking against this sect."21 They replied, "We have not received any letters from Judea concerning you, and none of the brothers who have come from there has reported or said anything bad about you. 22 But we want to hear what your views are, for we know that people everywhere are talking against this sect."

23. It seems strange that the Jews in the capital of the empire had not heard about Paul and his activities.It seems strange that the Jews in the capital of the empire had not heard about Paul and his activities. They had heard nothing but bad things about what they called the new sect, thinking of Christianity as just another sect of Judaism.They had heard nothing but bad things about what they called the new sect, thinking of Christianity as just another sect of Judaism. They want to know what Paul teaches, especially those things that might differ from orthodox Judaism.They want to know what Paul teaches, especially those things that might differ from orthodox Judaism. It seems strange that the Jews in the capital of the empire had not heard about Paul and his activities.It seems strange that the Jews in the capital of the empire had not heard about Paul and his activities. They had heard nothing but bad things about what they called the new sect, thinking of Christianity as just another sect of Judaism.They had heard nothing but bad things about what they called the new sect, thinking of Christianity as just another sect of Judaism. They want to know what Paul teaches, especially those things that might differ from orthodox Judaism.They want to know what Paul teaches, especially those things that might differ from orthodox Judaism.

24. Acts 28:23Acts 28:23 23 They arranged to meet Paul on a certain day, and came in even larger numbers to the place where he was staying. From morning till evening he explained and declared to them the kingdom of God and tried to convince them about Jesus from the Law of Moses and from the Prophets.23 They arranged to meet Paul on a certain day, and came in even larger numbers to the place where he was staying. From morning till evening he explained and declared to them the kingdom of God and tried to convince them about Jesus from the Law of Moses and from the Prophets. Acts 28:23Acts 28:23 23 They arranged to meet Paul on a certain day, and came in even larger numbers to the place where he was staying. From morning till evening he explained and declared to them the kingdom of God and tried to convince them about Jesus from the Law of Moses and from the Prophets.23 They arranged to meet Paul on a certain day, and came in even larger numbers to the place where he was staying. From morning till evening he explained and declared to them the kingdom of God and tried to convince them about Jesus from the Law of Moses and from the Prophets.

25. Some say that Paul wrote the Book of Hebrews.Some say that Paul wrote the Book of Hebrews. Because many of the same kinds of arguments presented in that book, which was directed to Jews, are the same as he would have used to convince these Roman Jews.Because many of the same kinds of arguments presented in that book, which was directed to Jews, are the same as he would have used to convince these Roman Jews. Jesus said the law and the prophets testified of Him. If a Jew will not believe and accept the teachings of the law and the prophets, he will never believe that Jesus is the True Messiah of Israel and the Savior of the world.Jesus said the law and the prophets testified of Him. If a Jew will not believe and accept the teachings of the law and the prophets, he will never believe that Jesus is the True Messiah of Israel and the Savior of the world. Some say that Paul wrote the Book of Hebrews.Some say that Paul wrote the Book of Hebrews. Because many of the same kinds of arguments presented in that book, which was directed to Jews, are the same as he would have used to convince these Roman Jews.Because many of the same kinds of arguments presented in that book, which was directed to Jews, are the same as he would have used to convince these Roman Jews. Jesus said the law and the prophets testified of Him. If a Jew will not believe and accept the teachings of the law and the prophets, he will never believe that Jesus is the True Messiah of Israel and the Savior of the world.Jesus said the law and the prophets testified of Him. If a Jew will not believe and accept the teachings of the law and the prophets, he will never believe that Jesus is the True Messiah of Israel and the Savior of the world.

26. Acts 28:24-25Acts 28:24-25 24 Some were convinced by what he said, but others would not believe. 25 They disagreed among themselves and began to leave after Paul had made this final statement: "The Holy Spirit spoke the truth to your forefathers when he said through Isaiah the prophet:24 Some were convinced by what he said, but others would not believe. 25 They disagreed among themselves and began to leave after Paul had made this final statement: "The Holy Spirit spoke the truth to your forefathers when he said through Isaiah the prophet: Acts 28:24-25Acts 28:24-25 24 Some were convinced by what he said, but others would not believe. 25 They disagreed among themselves and began to leave after Paul had made this final statement: "The Holy Spirit spoke the truth to your forefathers when he said through Isaiah the prophet:24 Some were convinced by what he said, but others would not believe. 25 They disagreed among themselves and began to leave after Paul had made this final statement: "The Holy Spirit spoke the truth to your forefathers when he said through Isaiah the prophet:

27. Words the Holy Spirit Spoke through Isaiah about Israel: The people would hear, but would not understand The people would see but would not perceive. Their heart had become dull. They allowed their ears to become hard of hearing. They closed their eyes so they could not see.

28. Acts 28:26-27Acts 28:26-27 26 "'Go to this people and say, "You will be ever hearing but never understanding; you will be ever seeing but never perceiving." 27 For this people's heart has become calloused; they hardly hear with their ears, and they have closed their eyes. Otherwise they might see with their eyes, hear with their ears, understand with their hearts and turn, and I would heal them.'26 "'Go to this people and say, "You will be ever hearing but never understanding; you will be ever seeing but never perceiving." 27 For this people's heart has become calloused; they hardly hear with their ears, and they have closed their eyes. Otherwise they might see with their eyes, hear with their ears, understand with their hearts and turn, and I would heal them.' Acts 28:26-27Acts 28:26-27 26 "'Go to this people and say, "You will be ever hearing but never understanding; you will be ever seeing but never perceiving." 27 For this people's heart has become calloused; they hardly hear with their ears, and they have closed their eyes. Otherwise they might see with their eyes, hear with their ears, understand with their hearts and turn, and I would heal them.'26 "'Go to this people and say, "You will be ever hearing but never understanding; you will be ever seeing but never perceiving." 27 For this people's heart has become calloused; they hardly hear with their ears, and they have closed their eyes. Otherwise they might see with their eyes, hear with their ears, understand with their hearts and turn, and I would heal them.' Isaiah Scroll (Dead Sea Scrolls)

29. Jesus quoted these same verses from Isaiah in His condemnation of the Jews who rejected Him (Matthew 13:14 & 15).Jesus quoted these same verses from Isaiah in His condemnation of the Jews who rejected Him (Matthew 13:14 & 15). Now Paul is simply pronouncing God’s judgment on the Jews who refuse to believe God and accept His Son.Now Paul is simply pronouncing God’s judgment on the Jews who refuse to believe God and accept His Son. Isaiah’s words were the words of God. These Jews knew that but stubbornly refused to change.Isaiah’s words were the words of God. These Jews knew that but stubbornly refused to change. Isaiah’s prophecy was fulfilled in them.Isaiah’s prophecy was fulfilled in them. Jesus quoted these same verses from Isaiah in His condemnation of the Jews who rejected Him (Matthew 13:14 & 15). Now Paul is simply pronouncing God’s judgment on the Jews who refuse to believe God and accept His Son. Isaiah’s words were the words of God. These Jews knew that but stubbornly refused to change. Isaiah’s prophecy was fulfilled in them.

30. Acts 28:28-31Acts 28:28-31 28 "Therefore I want you to know that God's salvation has been sent to the Gentiles, and they will listen!"28 "Therefore I want you to know that God's salvation has been sent to the Gentiles, and they will listen!" 30 For two whole years Paul stayed there in his own rented house and welcomed all who came to see him. 31 Boldly and without hindrance he preached the kingdom of God and taught about the Lord Jesus Christ. Acts 28:28-31 28 "Therefore I want you to know that God's salvation has been sent to the Gentiles, and they will listen!" 30 For two whole years Paul stayed there in his own rented house and welcomed all who came to see him. 31 Boldly and without hindrance he preached the kingdom of God and taught about the Lord Jesus Christ. The End of Paul’s Ministry

31. Paul’s Activities Described: 1)He preached the Kingdom of God 2) He taught the things that concern the Lord Jesus Christ 3)He did that with all confidence (cf. 2 Tim.1:12) 4)And he didn’t allow anyone to forbid him to do so (cf. 20:23,24)!

32. What an anti-climax!What an anti-climax! Also bizarre from a strategic viewpoint...Also bizarre from a strategic viewpoint... The book ends in AD 60The book ends in AD 60 Within 5 years, Paul was deadWithin 5 years, Paul was dead What was God thinking about?What was God thinking about? What an anti-climax!What an anti-climax! Also bizarre from a strategic viewpoint...Also bizarre from a strategic viewpoint... The book ends in AD 60The book ends in AD 60 Within 5 years, Paul was deadWithin 5 years, Paul was dead What was God thinking about?What was God thinking about? The End of Paul’s Ministry

33. Many guesses have been made about why Luke ends his history of Paul and the early church with Paul’s two years in Rome.Many guesses have been made about why Luke ends his history of Paul and the early church with Paul’s two years in Rome. But every story must end and I think Luke thought this was as good a place as any to bring the story to an end.But every story must end and I think Luke thought this was as good a place as any to bring the story to an end. There are clues in Paul’s letters written from Rome to Timothy that hint that he was released for a short time, then rearrested and executed shortly thereafter.There are clues in Paul’s letters written from Rome to Timothy that hint that he was released for a short time, then rearrested and executed shortly thereafter. Tradition says he was beheaded under Nero in about 65 AD.Tradition says he was beheaded under Nero in about 65 AD. Many guesses have been made about why Luke ends his history of Paul and the early church with Paul’s two years in Rome. But every story must end and I think Luke thought this was as good a place as any to bring the story to an end. There are clues in Paul’s letters written from Rome to Timothy that hint that he was released for a short time, then rearrested and executed shortly thereafter. Tradition says he was beheaded under Nero in about 65 AD.

34. See what Paul says in Philippians 1 12 Now I want you to know, brothers, that what has happened to me has really served to advance the gospel. 13As a result, it has become clear throughout the whole palace guard and to everyone else that I am in chains for Christ. 14 “Because of my chains, most of the brothers in the Lord have been encouraged to speak the word of God more courageously and fearlessly.” Significance of the “palace” (praetorian) guard…” See what Paul says in Philippians 1 12 Now I want you to know, brothers, that what has happened to me has really served to advance the gospel. 13As a result, it has become clear throughout the whole palace guard and to everyone else that I am in chains for Christ. 14 “Because of my chains, most of the brothers in the Lord have been encouraged to speak the word of God more courageously and fearlessly.” Significance of the “palace” (praetorian) guard…” We may think it TRAGIC WASTE

35. Phil. 4:11 Not that I speak from want; for I have learned to be content in whatever circumstances I am. 12 I know how to get along with humble means, and I also know how to live in prosperity; in any and every circumstance I have learned the secret of being filled and going hungry, both of having abundance and suffering need. 13 I can do all things through Him who strengthens me.

36. After this imprisonment… Paul’s Departure 1 Tim. 4:6-8 6 For I am already being poured out as a drink offering, and the time of my departure has come. 7 I have fought the good fight, I have finished the course, I have kept the faith; 8 in the future there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day; and not only to me, but also to all who have loved His appearing. 1 Tim. 4:6-8 6 For I am already being poured out as a drink offering, and the time of my departure has come. 7 I have fought the good fight, I have finished the course, I have kept the faith; 8 in the future there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day; and not only to me, but also to all who have loved His appearing.

37. Philippians = one of 4 “prison epistles” written during this timePhilippians = one of 4 “prison epistles” written during this time PhilippiansPhilippians EphesiansEphesians ColossiansColossians PhilemonPhilemon The books of Luke and Acts also!The books of Luke and Acts also! Philippians = one of 4 “prison epistles” written during this timePhilippians = one of 4 “prison epistles” written during this time PhilippiansPhilippians EphesiansEphesians ColossiansColossians PhilemonPhilemon The books of Luke and Acts also!The books of Luke and Acts also! We may think it TRAGIC WASTE

38. ConclusionConclusion This concludes the inspired histories of Luke, the beloved physician and constant companion of Paul.This concludes the inspired histories of Luke, the beloved physician and constant companion of Paul. We have no further biblical accounts of the characters mentioned in the New Testament except in the letters. We have no biblical accounts of what happened to any of them.We have no further biblical accounts of the characters mentioned in the New Testament except in the letters. We have no biblical accounts of what happened to any of them. We must rely on uninspired histories written by those who knew them.We must rely on uninspired histories written by those who knew them. This concludes the inspired histories of Luke, the beloved physician and constant companion of Paul.This concludes the inspired histories of Luke, the beloved physician and constant companion of Paul. We have no further biblical accounts of the characters mentioned in the New Testament except in the letters. We have no biblical accounts of what happened to any of them.We have no further biblical accounts of the characters mentioned in the New Testament except in the letters. We have no biblical accounts of what happened to any of them. We must rely on uninspired histories written by those who knew them.We must rely on uninspired histories written by those who knew them.

39. In Luke’s history called “Acts of the Apostles,” we have seen the establishment of the church in Jerusalem, Judea, Samaria and in the “uttermost parts of the earth.”In Luke’s history called “Acts of the Apostles,” we have seen the establishment of the church in Jerusalem, Judea, Samaria and in the “uttermost parts of the earth.” Paul said the gospel had been preached to “every creature that is under heaven” in his lifetime (Colossians 1:23).Paul said the gospel had been preached to “every creature that is under heaven” in his lifetime (Colossians 1:23). Now it is up to us and every generation to the end of time to keep the spirit and message alive, sowing the gospel seed into the hearts of each new generation.Now it is up to us and every generation to the end of time to keep the spirit and message alive, sowing the gospel seed into the hearts of each new generation. In Luke’s history called “Acts of the Apostles,” we have seen the establishment of the church in Jerusalem, Judea, Samaria and in the “uttermost parts of the earth.”In Luke’s history called “Acts of the Apostles,” we have seen the establishment of the church in Jerusalem, Judea, Samaria and in the “uttermost parts of the earth.” Paul said the gospel had been preached to “every creature that is under heaven” in his lifetime (Colossians 1:23).Paul said the gospel had been preached to “every creature that is under heaven” in his lifetime (Colossians 1:23). Now it is up to us and every generation to the end of time to keep the spirit and message alive, sowing the gospel seed into the hearts of each new generation.Now it is up to us and every generation to the end of time to keep the spirit and message alive, sowing the gospel seed into the hearts of each new generation. The gospel is still preached everywhere.

40. Generations Come and Generations Go Generations Come and Generations Go by Ellis Jones Generations come And generations go. The earth’s surface changes And men move to and fro. by Ellis Jones Generations come And generations go. The earth’s surface changes And men move to and fro.

41. The famous and the not so Are born and live and die. And God’s great net keeps gathering As time keeps passing by. The famous and the not so Are born and live and die. And God’s great net keeps gathering As time keeps passing by.

42. The sorting time is coming When He’ll throw the bad away. But think of all the good ones He’ll be keeping on that day. The sorting time is coming When He’ll throw the bad away. But think of all the good ones He’ll be keeping on that day.

43. Noah’s there, and Abraham, And maybe even Lot. But some, like Cain and Judas -- Maybe so and maybe not. Noah’s there, and Abraham, And maybe even Lot. But some, like Cain and Judas -- Maybe so and maybe not. “The lion shall lie down with the lamb…” (Isaiah)

44. I want to talk to Peter And I’d like to visit Paul. And since it is eternity, I could see them all. I want to talk to Peter And I’d like to visit Paul. And since it is eternity, I could see them all.

45. But will I recognize them When I see them there? “We will know as we are known.” And our stories we will share. But will I recognize them When I see them there? “We will know as we are known.” And our stories we will share.

46. God left for us a road map, One that all can follow. But many of its teachings, Some find hard to “swallow.” God left for us a road map, One that all can follow. But many of its teachings, Some find hard to “swallow.”

47. There is just ONE highway- The well-lit gospel way. It’s simple to get on it; But on it we must stay. There is just ONE highway- The well-lit gospel way. It’s simple to get on it; But on it we must stay.

48. It’s also like a stairway That goes from earth to heaven. When you begin to climb it, Your sins are then forgiven. It’s also like a stairway That goes from earth to heaven. When you begin to climb it, Your sins are then forgiven.

49. There’s One who climbs it with you, It’s Jesus, always there. But He will not be happy, If His love you will not share. There’s One who climbs it with you, It’s Jesus, always there. But He will not be happy, If His love you will not share.

50. So, bring a brother with you, And bring a sister too. You will feel much better If they make that climb with you. So, bring a brother with you, And bring a sister too. You will feel much better If they make that climb with you.

51. Yes, generations come And generations go. It’s important how you live, And also Whom you know! Yes, generations come And generations go. It’s important how you live, And also Whom you know!