IntroductionIntroductionIntroductionIntroduction

• In our last episode, the Alexandrian ship Paul In our last episode, the Alexandrian ship Paul had been on was wrecked on a sandbar off the had been on was wrecked on a sandbar off the

coast of Malta.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, In this episode, the final installment of our story, Paul spends three months on the island healing Paul spends three months on the island healing

the people and preaching the gospel.the people and preaching the gospel.• Then he and his company will catch a ship to Then he and his company will catch a ship to

Italy.Italy.

• In our last episode, the Alexandrian ship Paul In our last episode, the Alexandrian ship Paul had been on was wrecked on a sandbar off the had been on was wrecked on a sandbar off the

coast of Malta.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, In this episode, the final installment of our story, Paul spends three months on the island healing Paul spends three months on the island healing

the people and preaching the gospel.the people and preaching the gospel.• Then he and his company will catch a ship to Then he and his company will catch a ship to

Italy.Italy.

Malta, where Paul was shipwrecked

• Acts 28:1-4Acts 28:1-4• 28:1 Once safely on shore, we found out that 28:1 Once safely on shore, we found out that

the island was called Malta. 2 The islanders the island was called Malta. 2 The islanders showed us unusual kindness. They built a fire showed us unusual kindness. They built a fire

and welcomed us all because it was raining and and welcomed us all because it was raining and cold. 3 Paul gathered a pile of brushwood and, cold. 3 Paul gathered a pile of brushwood and,

as he put it on the fire, a viper, driven out by the as he put it on the fire, a viper, driven out by the heat, fastened itself on his hand. heat, fastened itself on his hand.

• Acts 28:1-4Acts 28:1-4• 28:1 Once safely on shore, we found out that 28:1 Once safely on shore, we found out that

the island was called Malta. 2 The islanders the island was called Malta. 2 The islanders showed us unusual kindness. They built a fire showed us unusual kindness. They built a fire

and welcomed us all because it was raining and and welcomed us all because it was raining and cold. 3 Paul gathered a pile of brushwood and, cold. 3 Paul gathered a pile of brushwood and,

as he put it on the fire, a viper, driven out by the as he put it on the fire, a viper, driven out by the heat, fastened itself on his hand. heat, fastened itself on his hand.

• Acts 28:4-6Acts 28:4-6• 4 When the islanders saw the snake hanging 4 When the islanders saw the snake hanging

from his hand, they said to each other, "This from his hand, they said to each other, "This man must be a murderer; for though he man must be a murderer; for though he

escaped from the sea, Justice has not allowed escaped from the sea, Justice has not allowed him to live." 5 But Paul shook the snake off into him to live." 5 But Paul shook the snake off into the fire and suffered no ill effects. 6 The people the fire and suffered no ill effects. 6 The people expected him to swell up or suddenly fall dead, expected him to swell up or suddenly fall dead, but after waiting a long time and seeing nothing but after waiting a long time and seeing nothing

unusual happen to him, they changed their unusual happen to him, they changed their minds and said he was a god. minds and said he was a god.

• Acts 28:4-6Acts 28:4-6• 4 When the islanders saw the snake hanging 4 When the islanders saw the snake hanging

from his hand, they said to each other, "This from his hand, they said to each other, "This man must be a murderer; for though he man must be a murderer; for though he

escaped from the sea, Justice has not allowed escaped from the sea, Justice has not allowed him to live." 5 But Paul shook the snake off into him to live." 5 But Paul shook the snake off into the fire and suffered no ill effects. 6 The people the fire and suffered no ill effects. 6 The people expected him to swell up or suddenly fall dead, expected him to swell up or suddenly fall dead, but after waiting a long time and seeing nothing but after waiting a long time and seeing nothing

unusual happen to him, they changed their unusual happen to him, they changed their minds and said he was a god. minds and said he was a god.

• What statement had Jesus What statement had Jesus made that was fulfilled in this made that was fulfilled in this

verse (Acts 28:5)?verse (Acts 28:5)?

Mark 16:18;

• In what other incident had the people In what other incident had the people thought Paul was a God (28:6)?thought Paul was a God (28:6)?

Acts 14:8-16Acts 14:8-16 11 “When the crowd 11 “When the crowd saw what Paul had done, they saw what Paul had done, they

shouted in the Lycaonian shouted in the Lycaonian language, "The gods have come language, "The gods have come down to us in human form!" 12 down to us in human form!" 12 Barnabas they called Zeus, and Barnabas they called Zeus, and

Paul they called Hermes Paul they called Hermes because he was the chief because he was the chief

speaker.”speaker.”

• Malta, an island just south of Sicily, is today a nation , an island just south of Sicily, is today a nation composed of Malta, the largest island, and several composed of Malta, the largest island, and several

smaller ones. It is a member of the European Union.smaller ones. It is a member of the European Union.• God’s special blessings came to this island because God’s special blessings came to this island because

of their unusual kindness and because Paul was of their unusual kindness and because Paul was there.there.

• When the viper bit Paul, seeing him in chains, they When the viper bit Paul, seeing him in chains, they thought he was a murderer escaped from the sea thought he was a murderer escaped from the sea

who was now getting what he deserved.who was now getting what he deserved.

• Malta, an island just south of Sicily, is today a nation , an island just south of Sicily, is today a nation composed of Malta, the largest island, and several composed of Malta, the largest island, and several

smaller ones. It is a member of the European Union.smaller ones. It is a member of the European Union.• God’s special blessings came to this island because God’s special blessings came to this island because

of their unusual kindness and because Paul was of their unusual kindness and because Paul was there.there.

• When the viper bit Paul, seeing him in chains, they When the viper bit Paul, seeing him in chains, they thought he was a murderer escaped from the sea thought he was a murderer escaped from the sea

who was now getting what he deserved.who was now getting what he deserved.

• The people knew that the venom of this particular The people knew that the venom of this particular kind of snake was deadly to humans.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 When they saw that the snake venom did not affect

Paul, they changed their minds and thought he Paul, they changed their minds and thought he must have divine powers, which of course he did, must have divine powers, which of course he did,

as an Apostle of Christ.as an Apostle of Christ.

• The people knew that the venom of this particular The people knew that the venom of this particular kind of snake was deadly to humans.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 When they saw that the snake venom did not affect

Paul, they changed their minds and thought he Paul, they changed their minds and thought he must have divine powers, which of course he did, must have divine powers, which of course he did,

as an Apostle of Christ.as an Apostle of Christ.

The Viper (snake) hangs on Paul’s hand.

• Acts 28:7-10Acts 28:7-10• 7 There was an estate nearby that belonged to 7 There was an estate nearby that belonged to

Publius, the chief official of the island. He Publius, the chief official of the island. He welcomed us to his home and for three days welcomed us to his home and for three days

entertained us hospitably. 8 His father was sick entertained us hospitably. 8 His father was sick in bed, suffering from fever and dysentery. Paul in bed, suffering from fever and dysentery. Paul went in to see him and, after prayer, placed his went in to see him and, after prayer, placed his hands on him and healed him. 9 When this had hands on him and healed him. 9 When this had

happened, the rest of the sick on the island happened, the rest of the sick on the island came and were cured. 10 They honored us in came and were cured. 10 They honored us in

many ways and when we were ready to sail, they many ways and when we were ready to sail, they furnished us with the supplies we needed.furnished us with the supplies we needed.

• Acts 28:7-10Acts 28:7-10• 7 There was an estate nearby that belonged to 7 There was an estate nearby that belonged to

Publius, the chief official of the island. He Publius, the chief official of the island. He welcomed us to his home and for three days welcomed us to his home and for three days

entertained us hospitably. 8 His father was sick entertained us hospitably. 8 His father was sick in bed, suffering from fever and dysentery. Paul in bed, suffering from fever and dysentery. Paul went in to see him and, after prayer, placed his went in to see him and, after prayer, placed his hands on him and healed him. 9 When this had hands on him and healed him. 9 When this had

happened, the rest of the sick on the island happened, the rest of the sick on the island came and were cured. 10 They honored us in came and were cured. 10 They honored us in

many ways and when we were ready to sail, they many ways and when we were ready to sail, they furnished us with the supplies we needed.furnished us with the supplies we needed.

Paul heals the father of Publius.

• As Jesus did during His ministry, Paul healed As Jesus did during His ministry, Paul healed everyone who came to him, beginning with the everyone who came to him, beginning with the

father of Publius.father of Publius.• I don’t think there was a sick person on the island I don’t think there was a sick person on the island

the three months Paul was there.the three months Paul was there.• in appreciation for all he had done for them, the in appreciation for all he had done for them, the

Maltese honored Paul and his company and Maltese honored Paul and his company and furnished everything they needed for their journey furnished everything they needed for their journey

to Rome.to Rome.

• As Jesus did during His ministry, Paul healed As Jesus did during His ministry, Paul healed everyone who came to him, beginning with the everyone who came to him, beginning with the

father of Publius.father of Publius.• I don’t think there was a sick person on the island I don’t think there was a sick person on the island

the three months Paul was there.the three months Paul was there.• in appreciation for all he had done for them, the in appreciation for all he had done for them, the

Maltese honored Paul and his company and Maltese honored Paul and his company and furnished everything they needed for their journey furnished everything they needed for their journey

to Rome.to Rome.

Paul heals the sick on Malta

• Acts 28:11-13Acts 28:11-13• 11 After three months we put out to sea in a ship 11 After three months we put out to sea in a ship

that had wintered in the island. It was an that had wintered in the island. It was an Alexandrian ship with the figurehead of the twin Alexandrian ship with the figurehead of the twin

gods Castor and Pollux. 12 We put in at gods Castor and Pollux. 12 We put in at Syracuse and stayed there three days. 13 From Syracuse and stayed there three days. 13 From there we set sail and arrived at Rhegium. The there we set sail and arrived at Rhegium. The next day the south wind came up, and on the next day the south wind came up, and on the

following day we reached Puteoli.following day we reached Puteoli.

• Acts 28:11-13Acts 28:11-13• 11 After three months we put out to sea in a ship 11 After three months we put out to sea in a ship

that had wintered in the island. It was an that had wintered in the island. It was an Alexandrian ship with the figurehead of the twin Alexandrian ship with the figurehead of the twin

gods Castor and Pollux. 12 We put in at gods Castor and Pollux. 12 We put in at Syracuse and stayed there three days. 13 From Syracuse and stayed there three days. 13 From there we set sail and arrived at Rhegium. The there we set sail and arrived at Rhegium. The next day the south wind came up, and on the next day the south wind came up, and on the

following day we reached Puteoli.following day we reached Puteoli.

The Gemini Twins, Castor and Pollux (Rome))

• Many ships from Alexandria must have been plying Many ships from Alexandria must have been plying the Mediterranean in those days. The marooned the Mediterranean in those days. The marooned passengers board another Alexandrian ship for passengers board another Alexandrian ship for

Italy. This time they make it there.Italy. This time they make it there.• Their first landfall is at Syracuse, where they stay Their first landfall is at Syracuse, where they stay three days, then move on to Rhegium. The next day three days, then move on to Rhegium. The next day a south wind blows them to Puteoli where some of a south wind blows them to Puteoli where some of

the Christian brothers met them.the Christian brothers met them.

• Many ships from Alexandria must have been plying Many ships from Alexandria must have been plying the Mediterranean in those days. The marooned the Mediterranean in those days. The marooned passengers board another Alexandrian ship for passengers board another Alexandrian ship for

Italy. This time they make it there.Italy. This time they make it there.• Their first landfall is at Syracuse, where they stay Their first landfall is at Syracuse, where they stay three days, then move on to Rhegium. The next day three days, then move on to Rhegium. The next day a south wind blows them to Puteoli where some of a south wind blows them to Puteoli where some of

the Christian brothers met them.the Christian brothers met them.

Syracuse is on the island of Sicily.

• Acts 28:14-16Acts 28:14-16• 14 There we found some brothers who invited 14 There we found some brothers who invited

us to spend a week with them. And so we came us to spend a week with them. And so we came to Rome. 15 The brothers there had heard that to Rome. 15 The brothers there had heard that

we were coming, and they traveled as far as the we were coming, and they traveled as far as the Forum of Appius and the Three Taverns to meet Forum of Appius and the Three Taverns to meet us. At the sight of these men Paul thanked God us. At the sight of these men Paul thanked God and was encouraged. 16 When we got to Rome, and was encouraged. 16 When we got to Rome,

Paul was allowed to live by himself, with a Paul was allowed to live by himself, with a soldier to guard him. soldier to guard him.

• Acts 28:14-16Acts 28:14-16• 14 There we found some brothers who invited 14 There we found some brothers who invited

us to spend a week with them. And so we came us to spend a week with them. And so we came to Rome. 15 The brothers there had heard that to Rome. 15 The brothers there had heard that

we were coming, and they traveled as far as the we were coming, and they traveled as far as the Forum of Appius and the Three Taverns to meet Forum of Appius and the Three Taverns to meet us. At the sight of these men Paul thanked God us. At the sight of these men Paul thanked God and was encouraged. 16 When we got to Rome, and was encouraged. 16 When we got to Rome,

Paul was allowed to live by himself, with a Paul was allowed to live by himself, with a soldier to guard him. soldier to guard him.

Ruins of the Forum

• After spending a week with the brothers at Puteoli, After spending a week with the brothers at Puteoli, Paul and his company went on to Rome.Paul and his company went on to Rome.

• They were met on the way by Christians from They were met on the way by Christians from Rome who had heard he was coming and went to Rome who had heard he was coming and went to meet him, coming as far as the Forum and Three meet him, coming as far as the Forum and Three

Taverns.Taverns.• This means there were Christian brothers waiting in This means there were Christian brothers waiting in

both these places to meet Paul on his journey to both these places to meet Paul on his journey to Rome.Rome.

• After spending a week with the brothers at Puteoli, After spending a week with the brothers at Puteoli, Paul and his company went on to Rome.Paul and his company went on to Rome.

• They were met on the way by Christians from They were met on the way by Christians from Rome who had heard he was coming and went to Rome who had heard he was coming and went to meet him, coming as far as the Forum and Three meet him, coming as far as the Forum and Three

Taverns.Taverns.• This means there were Christian brothers waiting in This means there were Christian brothers waiting in

both these places to meet Paul on his journey to both these places to meet Paul on his journey to Rome.Rome.

• At Rome Paul was allowed to rent his own private At Rome Paul was allowed to rent his own private residence and invite anyone he chose to come to residence and invite anyone he chose to come to

his house.his house.• He must have been required to be bound with a He must have been required to be bound with a

chain because he mentions it later. chain because he mentions it later. • And he was guarded by a single soldier. I think And he was guarded by a single soldier. I think

this was more formality than necessity. He was this was more formality than necessity. He was there at his own request.there at his own request.

• At Rome Paul was allowed to rent his own private At Rome Paul was allowed to rent his own private residence and invite anyone he chose to come to residence and invite anyone he chose to come to

his house.his house.• He must have been required to be bound with a He must have been required to be bound with a

chain because he mentions it later. chain because he mentions it later. • And he was guarded by a single soldier. I think And he was guarded by a single soldier. I think

this was more formality than necessity. He was this was more formality than necessity. He was there at his own request.there at his own request.

Paul is welcomed in Rome by the brothers.

• Acts 28:17-18Acts 28:17-18• 17 Three days later he called together the 17 Three days later he called together the

leaders of the Jews. When they had assembled, leaders of the Jews. When they had assembled, Paul said to them: "My brothers, although I Paul said to them: "My brothers, although I have done nothing against our people or have done nothing against our people or

against the customs of our ancestors, I was against the customs of our ancestors, I was arrested in Jerusalem and handed over to the arrested in Jerusalem and handed over to the Romans. 18 They examined me and wanted to Romans. 18 They examined me and wanted to

release me, because I was not guilty of any release me, because I was not guilty of any crime deserving death. crime deserving death.

• Acts 28:17-18Acts 28:17-18• 17 Three days later he called together the 17 Three days later he called together the

leaders of the Jews. When they had assembled, leaders of the Jews. When they had assembled, Paul said to them: "My brothers, although I Paul said to them: "My brothers, although I have done nothing against our people or have done nothing against our people or

against the customs of our ancestors, I was against the customs of our ancestors, I was arrested in Jerusalem and handed over to the arrested in Jerusalem and handed over to the Romans. 18 They examined me and wanted to Romans. 18 They examined me and wanted to

release me, because I was not guilty of any release me, because I was not guilty of any crime deserving death. crime deserving death.

• What had Paul done to illustrate the fact that he What had Paul done to illustrate the fact that he was willing to live according to Jewish custom was willing to live according to Jewish custom

(28:17)?(28:17)?

Acts 18:18Acts 18:18; Paul stayed on in Corinth for some ; Paul stayed on in Corinth for some time. Then he left the brothers and sailed for time. Then he left the brothers and sailed for Syria, accompanied by Priscilla and Aquila. Syria, accompanied by Priscilla and Aquila. Before he sailed, he had his hair cut off at Before he sailed, he had his hair cut off at

Cenchrea because of a vow he had taken." (NIV) Cenchrea because of a vow he had taken." (NIV)

1Cor 9:19-22;1Cor 9:19-22; 19 Though I am free and belong to no 19 Though I am free and belong to no man, I make myself a slave to everyone, to win as man, I make myself a slave to everyone, to win as many as possible. 20 To the Jews I became like a many as possible. 20 To the Jews I became like a Jew, to win the Jews. . 22 . . . I have become all Jew, to win the Jews. . 22 . . . I have become all

things to all men so that by all possible means things to all men so that by all possible means I might save some. (NIV)I might save some. (NIV)

• Acts 28:19-20Acts 28:19-20• 19 But when the Jews objected, I was compelled 19 But when the Jews objected, I was compelled

to appeal to Caesar-not that I had any charge to to appeal to Caesar-not that I had any charge to bring against my own people. 20 For this reason bring against my own people. 20 For this reason I have asked to see you and talk with you. It is I have asked to see you and talk with you. It is because of the because of the hope of Israelhope of Israel that I am bound that I am bound

with this chain."with this chain."

• Acts 28:19-20Acts 28:19-20• 19 But when the Jews objected, I was compelled 19 But when the Jews objected, I was compelled

to appeal to Caesar-not that I had any charge to to appeal to Caesar-not that I had any charge to bring against my own people. 20 For this reason bring against my own people. 20 For this reason I have asked to see you and talk with you. It is I have asked to see you and talk with you. It is because of the because of the hope of Israelhope of Israel that I am bound that I am bound

with this chain."with this chain."

28:20: What was the “hope of 28:20: What was the “hope of Israel”?Israel”?

Acts 23:6Acts 23:6 Then Paul, knowing that some of them Then Paul, knowing that some of them were Sadducees and the others Pharisees, called were Sadducees and the others Pharisees, called

out in the Sanhedrin, "My brothers, I am a out in the Sanhedrin, "My brothers, I am a Pharisee, the son of a Pharisee. I stand on trial Pharisee, the son of a Pharisee. I stand on trial because of mybecause of my hope in the resurrection of the hope in the resurrection of the

deaddead.." (NIV)" (NIV)

Acts 26:6-8Acts 26:6-8“And now it is because of “And now it is because of my hope my hope in what God has promised our fathers that I in what God has promised our fathers that I am on trial today. 7 This is the promise am on trial today. 7 This is the promise our our

twelve tribes are hoping to see fulfilledtwelve tribes are hoping to see fulfilled as as they earnestly serve God day and night. O they earnestly serve God day and night. O

King, it is because of King, it is because of this hopethis hope that the that the Jews are accusing me. 8 Why should any Jews are accusing me. 8 Why should any

of you consider it incredible that of you consider it incredible that God raises God raises the deadthe dead?” (NIV)?” (NIV)

• Paul explains why he was attacked by the Jews in Paul explains why he was attacked by the Jews in Palestine and why he has come to Rome.Palestine and why he has come to Rome.

• He had no charges to bring before Caesar against He had no charges to bring before Caesar against the Jews. He was compelled to appeal to Caesar the Jews. He was compelled to appeal to Caesar

to save his life and to get to Rome.to save his life and to get to Rome.• Paul always goes to the Jews first when he comes Paul always goes to the Jews first when he comes

to a new city to preach the gospel. Some always to a new city to preach the gospel. Some always accept the gospel but most Jews will not.accept the gospel but most Jews will not.

• Paul explains why he was attacked by the Jews in Paul explains why he was attacked by the Jews in Palestine and why he has come to Rome.Palestine and why he has come to Rome.

• He had no charges to bring before Caesar against He had no charges to bring before Caesar against the Jews. He was compelled to appeal to Caesar the Jews. He was compelled to appeal to Caesar

to save his life and to get to Rome.to save his life and to get to Rome.• Paul always goes to the Jews first when he comes Paul always goes to the Jews first when he comes

to a new city to preach the gospel. Some always to a new city to preach the gospel. Some always accept the gospel but most Jews will not.accept the gospel but most Jews will not.

• Acts 28:21-22Acts 28:21-22• 21 They replied, "We have not received any 21 They replied, "We have not received any letters from Judea concerning you, and none of letters from Judea concerning you, and none of

the brothers who have come from there has the brothers who have come from there has reported or said anything bad about you. 22 But reported or said anything bad about you. 22 But

we want to hear what your views are, for we we want to hear what your views are, for we know that people everywhere are talking against know that people everywhere are talking against

this sect." this sect."

• Acts 28:21-22Acts 28:21-22• 21 They replied, "We have not received any 21 They replied, "We have not received any letters from Judea concerning you, and none of letters from Judea concerning you, and none of

the brothers who have come from there has the brothers who have come from there has reported or said anything bad about you. 22 But reported or said anything bad about you. 22 But

we want to hear what your views are, for we we want to hear what your views are, for we know that people everywhere are talking against know that people everywhere are talking against

this sect." this sect."

• It seems strange that the Jews in the capital of the It seems strange that the Jews in the capital of the empire had not heard about Paul and his activities. empire had not heard about Paul and his activities.

• They had heard nothing but bad things about what They had heard nothing but bad things about what they called the new sect, thinking of Christianity as they called the new sect, thinking of Christianity as

just another sect of Judaism.just another sect of Judaism.• They want to know what Paul teaches, especially They want to know what Paul teaches, especially

those things that might differ from orthodox those things that might differ from orthodox Judaism.Judaism.

• It seems strange that the Jews in the capital of the It seems strange that the Jews in the capital of the empire had not heard about Paul and his activities. empire had not heard about Paul and his activities.

• They had heard nothing but bad things about what They had heard nothing but bad things about what they called the new sect, thinking of Christianity as they called the new sect, thinking of Christianity as

just another sect of Judaism.just another sect of Judaism.• They want to know what Paul teaches, especially They want to know what Paul teaches, especially

those things that might differ from orthodox those things that might differ from orthodox Judaism.Judaism.

• Acts 28:23Acts 28:23• 23 They arranged to meet Paul on a certain day, 23 They arranged to meet Paul on a certain day,

and came in even larger numbers to the place and came in even larger numbers to the place where he was staying. From morning till evening where he was staying. From morning till evening he explained and declared to them the kingdom he explained and declared to them the kingdom of God and tried to convince them about Jesus of God and tried to convince them about Jesus from the Law of Moses and from the Prophets.from the Law of Moses and from the Prophets.

• Acts 28:23Acts 28:23• 23 They arranged to meet Paul on a certain day, 23 They arranged to meet Paul on a certain day,

and came in even larger numbers to the place and came in even larger numbers to the place where he was staying. From morning till evening where he was staying. From morning till evening he explained and declared to them the kingdom he explained and declared to them the kingdom of God and tried to convince them about Jesus of God and tried to convince them about Jesus from the Law of Moses and from the Prophets.from the Law of Moses and from the Prophets.

• 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 Because many of the same kinds of arguments

presented in that book, which was directed to presented in that book, which was directed to Jews, are the same as he would have used to Jews, are the same as he would have used to

convince these Roman Jews.convince these Roman Jews.• Jesus said the law and the prophets testified of Jesus said the law and the prophets testified of

Him. If a Jew will not believe and accept the Him. If a Jew will not believe and accept the teachings of the law and the prophets, he will teachings of the law and the prophets, he will

never believe that Jesus is the True Messiah of never believe that Jesus is the True Messiah of Israel and the Savior of the world.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 Because many of the same kinds of arguments

presented in that book, which was directed to presented in that book, which was directed to Jews, are the same as he would have used to Jews, are the same as he would have used to

convince these Roman Jews.convince these Roman Jews.• Jesus said the law and the prophets testified of Jesus said the law and the prophets testified of

Him. If a Jew will not believe and accept the Him. If a Jew will not believe and accept the teachings of the law and the prophets, he will teachings of the law and the prophets, he will

never believe that Jesus is the True Messiah of never believe that Jesus is the True Messiah of Israel and the Savior of the world.Israel and the Savior of the world.

• Acts 28:24-25Acts 28:24-25• 24 Some were convinced by what he said, but 24 Some were convinced by what he said, but

others would not believe. 25 They disagreed others would not believe. 25 They disagreed among themselves and began to leave after Paul among themselves and began to leave after Paul had made this final statement: "The Holy Spirit had made this final statement: "The Holy Spirit

spoke the truth to your forefathers when he said spoke the truth to your forefathers when he said through Isaiah the prophet: through Isaiah the prophet:

• Acts 28:24-25Acts 28:24-25• 24 Some were convinced by what he said, but 24 Some were convinced by what he said, but

others would not believe. 25 They disagreed others would not believe. 25 They disagreed among themselves and began to leave after Paul among themselves and began to leave after Paul had made this final statement: "The Holy Spirit had made this final statement: "The Holy Spirit

spoke the truth to your forefathers when he said spoke the truth to your forefathers when he said through Isaiah the prophet: through Isaiah the prophet:

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.

• Acts 28:26-27Acts 28:26-27• 26 "'Go to this people and say, "You will be 26 "'Go to this people and say, "You will be ever hearing but never understanding; you will ever hearing but never understanding; you will

be ever seeing but never perceiving." 27 For be ever seeing but never perceiving." 27 For this people's heart has become calloused; they this people's heart has become calloused; they

hardly hear with their ears, and they have hardly hear with their ears, and they have closed their eyes. Otherwise they might see closed their eyes. Otherwise they might see

with their eyes, hear with their ears, understand with their eyes, hear with their ears, understand with their hearts and turn, and I would heal with their hearts and turn, and I would heal

them.'them.'

• Acts 28:26-27Acts 28:26-27• 26 "'Go to this people and say, "You will be 26 "'Go to this people and say, "You will be ever hearing but never understanding; you will ever hearing but never understanding; you will

be ever seeing but never perceiving." 27 For be ever seeing but never perceiving." 27 For this people's heart has become calloused; they this people's heart has become calloused; they

hardly hear with their ears, and they have hardly hear with their ears, and they have closed their eyes. Otherwise they might see closed their eyes. Otherwise they might see

with their eyes, hear with their ears, understand with their eyes, hear with their ears, understand with their hearts and turn, and I would heal with their hearts and turn, and I would heal

them.'them.'

Isaiah Scroll (Dead Sea Scrolls)

• Jesus quoted these same verses from Isaiah in His Jesus quoted these same verses from Isaiah in His condemnation of the Jews who rejected Him condemnation of the Jews who rejected Him

(Matthew 13:14 & 15). (Matthew 13:14 & 15). • Now Paul is simply pronouncing God’s judgment on Now Paul is simply pronouncing God’s judgment on

the Jews who refuse to believe God and accept His the Jews who refuse to believe God and accept His Son.Son.

• Isaiah’s words were the words of God. These Jews Isaiah’s words were the words of God. These Jews knew that but stubbornly refused to change.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 Jesus quoted these same verses from Isaiah in His condemnation of the Jews who rejected Him condemnation of the Jews who rejected Him

(Matthew 13:14 & 15). (Matthew 13:14 & 15). • Now Paul is simply pronouncing God’s judgment on Now Paul is simply pronouncing God’s judgment on

the Jews who refuse to believe God and accept His the Jews who refuse to believe God and accept His Son.Son.

• Isaiah’s words were the words of God. These Jews Isaiah’s words were the words of God. These Jews knew that but stubbornly refused to change.knew that but stubbornly refused to change.• Isaiah’s prophecy was fulfilled in them.Isaiah’s prophecy was fulfilled in them.

• Acts 28:28-31Acts 28:28-31

• 28 "Therefore I want you to know 28 "Therefore I want you to know that God's salvation has been sent that God's salvation has been sent

to the Gentiles, and they will to the Gentiles, and they will listen!" listen!"

30 For two whole years Paul stayed 30 For two whole years Paul stayed there in his own rented house and there in his own rented house and

welcomed all who came to see him. welcomed all who came to see him. 31 Boldly and without hindrance he 31 Boldly and without hindrance he preached the kingdom of God and preached the kingdom of God and

taught about the Lord Jesus Christ. taught about the Lord Jesus Christ.

• Acts 28:28-31Acts 28:28-31

• 28 "Therefore I want you to know 28 "Therefore I want you to know that God's salvation has been sent that God's salvation has been sent

to the Gentiles, and they will to the Gentiles, and they will listen!" listen!"

30 For two whole years Paul stayed 30 For two whole years Paul stayed there in his own rented house and there in his own rented house and

welcomed all who came to see him. welcomed all who came to see him. 31 Boldly and without hindrance he 31 Boldly and without hindrance he preached the kingdom of God and preached the kingdom of God and

taught about the Lord Jesus Christ. taught about the Lord Jesus Christ.

The End of Paul’s MinistryThe End of Paul’s Ministry

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)!

• What an anti-climax!What an anti-climax!• Also bizarre from a strategic Also bizarre from a strategic

viewpoint. . .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 Also bizarre from a strategic

viewpoint. . .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 MinistryThe End of Paul’s Ministry

• Many guesses have been made about why Luke Many guesses have been made about why Luke ends his history of Paul and the early church with ends his history of Paul and the early church with

Paul’s two years in Rome.Paul’s two years in Rome.• But every story must end and I think Luke thought But every story must end and I think Luke thought this was as good a place as any to bring the story to this was as good a place as any to bring the story to

an end.an end.• There are clues in Paul’s letters written from Rome There are clues in Paul’s letters written from Rome

to Timothy that hint that he was released for a short to Timothy that hint that he was released for a short time, then rearrested and executed shortly time, then rearrested and executed shortly

thereafter.thereafter.• Tradition says he was beheaded under Nero in Tradition says he was beheaded under Nero in

about 65 AD.about 65 AD.

• Many guesses have been made about why Luke Many guesses have been made about why Luke ends his history of Paul and the early church with ends his history of Paul and the early church with

Paul’s two years in Rome.Paul’s two years in Rome.• But every story must end and I think Luke thought But every story must end and I think Luke thought this was as good a place as any to bring the story to this was as good a place as any to bring the story to

an end.an end.• There are clues in Paul’s letters written from Rome There are clues in Paul’s letters written from Rome

to Timothy that hint that he was released for a short to Timothy that hint that he was released for a short time, then rearrested and executed shortly time, then rearrested and executed shortly

thereafter.thereafter.• Tradition says he was beheaded under Nero in Tradition says he was beheaded under Nero in

about 65 AD.about 65 AD.

See what Paul says in Philippians 1See what Paul says in Philippians 112 Now I want you to know, brothers, that what has 12 Now I want you to know, brothers, that what has

happened to me has really served to advance the happened to me has really served to advance the gospel.gospel.

1313 As a result, it has become clear throughout the As a result, it has become clear throughout the whole palace guard and to everyone else that I whole palace guard and to everyone else that I

am in chains for Christ.am in chains for Christ.

14 “Because of my chains, most of the brothers in 14 “Because of my chains, most of the brothers in the Lord have been encouraged to speak the the Lord have been encouraged to speak the

word of God more courageously and fearlessly.”word of God more courageously and fearlessly.”

Significance of the Significance of the “palace” (praetorian) guard“palace” (praetorian) guard…”…”

See what Paul says in Philippians 1See what Paul says in Philippians 112 Now I want you to know, brothers, that what has 12 Now I want you to know, brothers, that what has

happened to me has really served to advance the happened to me has really served to advance the gospel.gospel.

1313 As a result, it has become clear throughout the As a result, it has become clear throughout the whole palace guard and to everyone else that I whole palace guard and to everyone else that I

am in chains for Christ.am in chains for Christ.

14 “Because of my chains, most of the brothers in 14 “Because of my chains, most of the brothers in the Lord have been encouraged to speak the the Lord have been encouraged to speak the

word of God more courageously and fearlessly.”word of God more courageously and fearlessly.”

Significance of the Significance of the “palace” (praetorian) guard“palace” (praetorian) guard…”…”

We may think it TRAGIC WASTEWe may think it TRAGIC WASTE

Phil. 4:11 Not that I speak from want; for I Phil. 4:11 Not that I speak from want; for I have learned to be content in whatever have learned to be content in whatever

circumstances I am. circumstances I am.

12 I know how to get along with humble 12 I know how to get along with humble means, and I also know how to live in means, and I also know how to live in

prosperity; in any and every circumstance I prosperity; in any and every circumstance I have learned the secret of being filled and have learned the secret of being filled and

going hungry, both of having abundance and going hungry, both of having abundance and suffering need.suffering need.

13 I can do all things through Him who 13 I can do all things through Him who strengthens me.strengthens me.

After this imprisonment…After this imprisonment… Paul’s DeparturePaul’s Departure

After this imprisonment…After this imprisonment… Paul’s DeparturePaul’s Departure

1 Tim. 4:6-81 Tim. 4:6-86 For I am already being poured out as a drink 6 For I am already being poured out as a drink

offering, and the time of my departure has come. offering, and the time of my departure has come. 7 I have fought the good fight, I have finished the 7 I have fought the good fight, I have finished the

course, I have kept the faith; course, I have kept the faith; 8 in the future there is laid up for me the crown of 8 in the future there is laid up for me the crown of

righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day; and not only Judge, will award to me on that day; and not only

to me, but also to all who have loved His to me, but also to all who have loved His appearing.appearing.

1 Tim. 4:6-81 Tim. 4:6-86 For I am already being poured out as a drink 6 For I am already being poured out as a drink

offering, and the time of my departure has come. offering, and the time of my departure has come. 7 I have fought the good fight, I have finished the 7 I have fought the good fight, I have finished the

course, I have kept the faith; course, I have kept the faith; 8 in the future there is laid up for me the crown of 8 in the future there is laid up for me the crown of

righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day; and not only Judge, will award to me on that day; and not only

to me, but also to all who have loved His to me, but also to all who have loved His appearing.appearing.

• Philippians = one of 4 “prison epistles” Philippians = one of 4 “prison epistles” written during this timewritten 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” Philippians = one of 4 “prison epistles” written during this timewritten 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 WASTEWe may think it TRAGIC WASTE

ConclusionConclusionConclusionConclusion

• This concludes the inspired histories of Luke, This concludes the inspired histories of Luke, the beloved physician and constant companion the beloved physician and constant companion

of Paul.of Paul.• We have no further biblical accounts of the We have no further biblical accounts of the

characters mentioned in the New Testament characters mentioned in the New Testament except in the letters. We have no biblical except in the letters. We have no biblical

accounts of what happened to any of them.accounts of what happened to any of them.• We must rely on uninspired histories written by We must rely on uninspired histories written by

those who knew them.those who knew them.

• This concludes the inspired histories of Luke, This concludes the inspired histories of Luke, the beloved physician and constant companion the beloved physician and constant companion

of Paul.of Paul.• We have no further biblical accounts of the We have no further biblical accounts of the

characters mentioned in the New Testament characters mentioned in the New Testament except in the letters. We have no biblical except in the letters. We have no biblical

accounts of what happened to any of them.accounts of what happened to any of them.• We must rely on uninspired histories written by We must rely on uninspired histories written by

those who knew them.those who knew them.

• In Luke’s history called “Acts of the Apostles,” we In Luke’s history called “Acts of the Apostles,” we have seen the establishment of the church in have seen the establishment of the church in

Jerusalem, Judea, Samaria and in the “uttermost Jerusalem, Judea, Samaria and in the “uttermost parts of the earth.”parts of the earth.”

• Paul said the gospel had been preached to “every Paul said the gospel had been preached to “every creature that is under heaven” in his lifetime creature that is under heaven” in his lifetime

(Colossians 1:23).(Colossians 1:23).• Now it is up to us and every generation to the end Now it is up to us and every generation to the end

of time to keep the spirit and message alive, sowing of time to keep the spirit and message alive, sowing the gospel seed into the hearts of each new the gospel seed into the hearts of each new

generation.generation.

• In Luke’s history called “Acts of the Apostles,” we In Luke’s history called “Acts of the Apostles,” we have seen the establishment of the church in have seen the establishment of the church in

Jerusalem, Judea, Samaria and in the “uttermost Jerusalem, Judea, Samaria and in the “uttermost parts of the earth.”parts of the earth.”

• Paul said the gospel had been preached to “every Paul said the gospel had been preached to “every creature that is under heaven” in his lifetime creature that is under heaven” in his lifetime

(Colossians 1:23).(Colossians 1:23).• Now it is up to us and every generation to the end Now it is up to us and every generation to the end

of time to keep the spirit and message alive, sowing of time to keep the spirit and message alive, sowing the gospel seed into the hearts of each new the gospel seed into the hearts of each new

generation.generation.

The gospel is still preached everywhere.

Generations Come and Generations Come and Generations GoGenerations Go

Generations Come and Generations Come and Generations GoGenerations Go

by Ellis Jonesby Ellis Jones

Generations comeGenerations come

And generations go.And generations go.

The earth’s surface changesThe earth’s surface changes

And men move to and fro.And men move to and fro.

by Ellis Jonesby Ellis Jones

Generations comeGenerations come

And generations go.And generations go.

The earth’s surface changesThe earth’s surface changes

And men move to and fro.And men move to and fro.

The famous The famous and the not soand the not so

Are born Are born and live and die.and live and die.

And God’s great net And God’s great net keeps gatheringkeeps gathering

As time As time keeps passing by.keeps passing by.

The famous The famous and the not soand the not so

Are born Are born and live and die.and live and die.

And God’s great net And God’s great net keeps gatheringkeeps gathering

As time As time keeps passing by.keeps passing by.

The sorting time is comingThe sorting time is coming

When He’ll throw the bad away.When He’ll throw the bad away.

But think of all the good onesBut think of all the good ones

He’ll be keeping on that day.He’ll be keeping on that day.

The sorting time is comingThe sorting time is coming

When He’ll throw the bad away.When He’ll throw the bad away.

But think of all the good onesBut think of all the good ones

He’ll be keeping on that day.He’ll be keeping on that day.

Noah’s there, and Abraham,Noah’s there, and Abraham,And maybe even Lot.And maybe even Lot.

But some, like Cain and Judas --But some, like Cain and Judas --Maybe so and maybe not.Maybe so and maybe not.

Noah’s there, and Abraham,Noah’s there, and Abraham,And maybe even Lot.And maybe even Lot.

But some, like Cain and Judas --But some, like Cain and Judas --Maybe so and maybe not.Maybe so and maybe not.

“The lion shall lie down with the lamb…” (Isaiah)

I want to talk to PeterI want to talk to Peter

And I’d like to visit Paul.And I’d like to visit Paul.

And since it is eternity,And since it is eternity,

I could see them all.I could see them all.

I want to talk to PeterI want to talk to Peter

And I’d like to visit Paul.And I’d like to visit Paul.

And since it is eternity,And since it is eternity,

I could see them all.I could see them all.

But will I recognize themBut will I recognize themWhen I see them there?When I see them there?

““We will know as we are known.”We will know as we are known.”And our stories we will share.And our stories we will share.

But will I recognize themBut will I recognize themWhen I see them there?When I see them there?

““We will know as we are known.”We will know as we are known.”And our stories we will share.And our stories we will share.

God left for us a road map,God left for us a road map,

One that all can follow.One that all can follow.

But many of its teachings,But many of its teachings,

Some find hard to “swallow.”Some find hard to “swallow.”

God left for us a road map,God left for us a road map,

One that all can follow.One that all can follow.

But many of its teachings,But many of its teachings,

Some find hard to “swallow.”Some find hard to “swallow.”

There is just ONE highway-There is just ONE highway-

The well-lit gospel way.The well-lit gospel way.

It’s simple to get on it;It’s simple to get on it;

But on it we must stay.But on it we must stay.

There is just ONE highway-There is just ONE highway-

The well-lit gospel way.The well-lit gospel way.

It’s simple to get on it;It’s simple to get on it;

But on it we must stay.But on it we must stay.

It’s also like a stairwayIt’s also like a stairway

That goes from earth to heaven.That goes from earth to heaven.

When you begin to climb it,When you begin to climb it,

Your sins are then forgiven.Your sins are then forgiven.

It’s also like a stairwayIt’s also like a stairway

That goes from earth to heaven.That goes from earth to heaven.

When you begin to climb it,When you begin to climb it,

Your sins are then forgiven.Your sins are then forgiven.

There’s One who climbs it with you,There’s One who climbs it with you,

It’s Jesus, always there.It’s Jesus, always there.

But He will not be happy,But He will not be happy,

If His love you will not share.If His love you will not share.

There’s One who climbs it with you,There’s One who climbs it with you,

It’s Jesus, always there.It’s Jesus, always there.

But He will not be happy,But He will not be happy,

If His love you will not share.If His love you will not share.

So, bring a brother with you,So, bring a brother with you,And bring a sister too.And bring a sister too.

You will feel much betterYou will feel much betterIf they make that climb with you.If they make that climb with you.

So, bring a brother with you,So, bring a brother with you,And bring a sister too.And bring a sister too.

You will feel much betterYou will feel much betterIf they make that climb with you.If they make that climb with you.

Yes, generations comeYes, generations comeAnd generations go.And generations go.

It’s important how you live,It’s important how you live,And also Whom you know!And also Whom you know!

Yes, generations comeYes, generations comeAnd generations go.And generations go.

It’s important how you live,It’s important how you live,And also Whom you know!And also Whom you know!