The Urgency of Giving the Gospel

Acts 28:17–31
» View this passage in NIV (Bible Gateway)

Paul had a burning desire to preach the gospel in Rome. He knew that God had blessed him greatly and had given him the opportunity to be there and preach the gospel to both Jew and Gentiles. As had been his custom in city after city, he began witnessing to the Jews first (v. 17). He thought it wise to explain the entire situation to them, giving his side of the story before his accusers arrived (vv. 18-20). The Jewish leaders said they had not heard about Paul’s case but admitted that they considered Christianity to be a heresy (vv. 21-22). Paul’s persecutors had decided not to pursue the case further, being content to have Paul locked up for a few more months. The Jews of Rome gathered at Paul’s home to listen to him preach (v. 23). From morning till evening, he used Scripture, trying to convince them about Jesus and his kingdom. Some believed but others did not (v. 24). As they began to depart, he reminded them of the prophecy of Isaiah, that their hearts would be hardened on hearing the truth (vv. 25-27). Paul said, “You should know that this gospel message is for the Gentiles as well; and they will listen” (v. 28). 

Paul stayed in Rome for two years, welcoming all who came to him (v. 30). He preached about Jesus and his kingdom without opposition (v. 31). Paul’s home became the headquarters for world evangelism. Being under house-arrest, Paul couldn’t go, but others could. Paul led many to Christ, inspired others to go, won members of the Roman guard (Phil. 1:3-8), and put all his effort into the spreading of the gospel and the building up of the church. The book of Acts deals with the history of missions and the expansion of the church, touching such cities as Jerusalem, Antioch, Ephesus, and Rome, which were the most influential places in the Western world. The Church at the beginning of Acts could be numbered in scores but can now be numbered in tens of thousands. Though Paul was under house arrest, the Gospel was not bound or chained. The message under the sovereign hand of the Lord, went from Jews to Gentiles, and from Jerusalem to Rome.

Application

Robert Moffat said, “We’ll have all eternity to celebrate our victories, but only one short hour before sunset to win them.” Lord, help me to be all out for you as the need is urgent!