Paul in Rome (Part 3)

 Acts 28:30-31

“30 For two whole years Paul stayed there in his own rented house and welcomed all who came to see him. 31 He proclaimed the kingdom of God and taught about the Lord Jesus Christ—with all boldness and without hindrance!”

So, Luke’s history of the early church and the Apostles ends.  I think you will agree that Luke took us on quite a journey.  

In Acts, Luke taught us the power of God in the lives of believers; the power of the life and the teachings of Christ in His disciples; the power, the passion and the vision of those indwelled by the Holy Spirit; and the power and influence of just one person used by God.

The story that began in Jerusalem with the confused and fearful disciples, ended in Rome with Paul teaching and proclaiming the Lord Jesus Christ….. with boldness and without hindrance. 

Some scholars say that Paul’s mission and his life ended in Rome by beheading after the two year period that Luke mentions (62 AD), and others say there is evidence that Paul was released and traveled to Spain, then back to Rome where he was beheaded (64 AD).  

Whichever is true, this we do know: Paul’s love for God, his passion for Christ, and his influence on the Church still live.

May the love of Christ be with you,

Rev. Eric Lanier (Retired)