Acts 28: Paul’s Journey to Rome, Miracles, and Unhindered Gospel Preaching

Acts 28 is a pivotal chapter in the New Testament, detailing Paul’s journey to Rome and his ministry there while under house arrest. It’s a powerful testament to God’s sovereignty and the unstoppable spread of the gospel, even in the face of opposition and hardship.

In this chapter, we see Paul survive a shipwreck and snake bite, demonstrating God’s protection and power. He then arrives in Rome, where he boldly preaches the gospel to both Jews and Gentiles, leading many to faith in Christ.

Through Paul’s example, Acts 28 challenges us to trust God in all circumstances and faithfully proclaim the good news of Jesus Christ. It’s an inspiring reminder that no matter what obstacles we face, God’s purposes will prevail, and His kingdom will advance.

Paul’s Shipwreck and Arrival on Malta

Acts 28 opens with Paul and his companions shipwrecked on the island of Malta after a harrowing sea journey. Even though the challenges, God’s protection and purpose for Paul remain evident.

Welcomed by the Islanders

The Maltese people show exceptional kindness to the shipwrecked crew, building a fire to warm them in the cold and rain. Acts 28:2 states, “And the natives showed us unusual kindness; for they kindled a fire and made us all welcome, because of the rain that was falling and because of the cold.” This act of compassion from strangers highlights the islanders’ hospitality.

Paul Bitten by a Snake

While gathering sticks for the fire, a viper latches onto Paul’s hand. The locals initially believe this is divine retribution, assuming Paul must be a murderer. Acts 28:4 says, “So when the natives saw the creature hanging from his hand, they said to one another, ‘No doubt this man is a murderer, whom, though he has escaped the sea, yet justice does not allow to live.'” But, when Paul remains unharmed, they change their minds, thinking he must be a god.

Paul Heals Publius’ Father and Others

Paul and his companions stay with Publius, the chief man of the island, for three days. During this time, Paul heals Publius’ father, who was sick with a fever and dysentery. Word spreads, and soon all the sick on the island come to Paul and are healed.

Acts 28:8-9 states:

“And it happened that the father of Publius lay sick of a fever and dysentery. Paul went in to him and prayed, and he laid his hands on him and healed him. So when this was done, the rest of those on the island who had diseases also came and were healed.”

This demonstration of God’s power through Paul leads to many coming to faith, showcasing the gospel’s impact even in unexpected places.

Journey from Malta to Rome

After spending three months on Malta, Paul and his companions set sail for Rome. Their journey included several stops along the way.

Stops at Syracuse, Rhegium and Puteoli

They first landed at Syracuse and stayed for three days. From there, they sailed to Rhegium. The next day, a south wind blew, and they arrived at Puteoli in two days. “From there we circled round and reached Rhegium. And after one day the south wind blew; and the next day we came to Puteoli” (Acts 28:13 NKJV).

Puteoli was a major port city in Italy, where ships from Alexandria often unloaded their cargo. It served as an important link between Rome and the rest of the empire.

Meeting with Believers

In Puteoli, Paul found some brethren who invited him and his companions to stay with them for seven days. “There we found brethren, and were invited to stay with them seven days. And so we went toward Rome” (Acts 28:14 NKJV).

This shows the strong bond and hospitality among early Christians. They welcomed and supported Paul and his companions on their journey. From Puteoli, they set out for Rome, and the brethren from Rome came to meet them at the Appii Forum and Three Inns. “And from there, when the brethren heard about us, they came to meet us as far as Appii Forum and Three Inns. When Paul saw them, he thanked God and took courage” (Acts 28:15 NKJV).

Paul was encouraged by the support and fellowship of the believers in Italy. Their presence strengthened him as he prepared to face his upcoming trial in Rome.

Paul’s Ministry in Rome

Paul arrives in Rome and is placed under house arrest but allowed to live on his own with a guard. He wastes no time in reaching out to share the gospel.

Meeting with Local Jewish Leaders

Within three days of arriving in Rome, Paul calls together the local Jewish leaders. He explains his situation, telling them he was arrested “for the hope of Israel” (Acts 28:20 NKJV). The leaders say they haven’t received any letters from Judea about him but are interested in hearing his views.

They said to him, “We neither received letters from Judea concerning you, nor have any of the brethren who came reported or spoken any evil of you. But we desire to hear from you what you think; for concerning this sect, we know that it is spoken against everywhere.” (Acts 28:21-22 NKJV)

Preaching the Gospel

On an appointed day, many Jews come to Paul’s lodging to hear him. From morning till evening, he:

• Explains the kingdom of God
• Tries to persuade them about Jesus
• Uses the Law of Moses and the Prophets

So when they had appointed him a day, many came to him at his lodging, to whom he explained and solemnly testified of the kingdom of God, persuading them concerning Jesus from both the Law of Moses and the Prophets, from morning till evening. (Acts 28:23 NKJV)

Jewish Response and Rejection

The Jewish leaders have a mixed response to Paul’s message. Some are persuaded but others disbelieve. As they disagree among themselves, Paul quotes Isaiah’s prophecy about the Jews’ hardness of heart.

And when they did not agree among themselves, they departed after Paul had said one word: “The Holy Spirit spoke rightly through Isaiah the prophet to our fathers, saying,
‘Go to this people and say:
“Hearing you will hear, and shall not understand;
And seeing you will see, and not perceive…”‘” (Acts 28:25-26 NKJV)

Paul declares that God’s salvation has been sent to the Gentiles, who will listen. For the next two years under house arrest, Paul boldly preaches the kingdom of God to all who visit him, unhindered.

Paul’s Continued Ministry

Even though being under house arrest in Rome, Paul continued his ministry relentlessly. For two whole years, he preached the kingdom of God and taught about Jesus Christ to all who visited him.

Two Years of Preaching Under House Arrest

Paul spent two years in his rented house in Rome under house arrest (Acts 28:30). Even though he was confined, he didn’t let it hinder his mission to spread the gospel. The Book of Acts tells us:

“Then Paul dwelt two whole years in his own rented house, and received all who came to him, preaching the kingdom of God and teaching the things which concern the Lord Jesus Christ with all confidence, no one forbidding him.” (Acts 28:30-31 NKJV)

During this time, Paul:

• Rented his own house
• Welcomed all visitors
• Preached with confidence
• Was not forbidden by anyone

Preaching to All Who Visited

Paul received everyone who came to him, using every opportunity to share the gospel (Acts 28:30). He preached about:

1. The kingdom of God
2. The Lord Jesus Christ

He taught with great boldness and without hindrance (Acts 28:31). No one could silence Paul’s message, even under house arrest. His doors were always open to anyone seeking to learn about Jesus.

Some key points about Paul’s ministry during this time:

Aspect	Description
Duration	Two full years
Location	His rented house in Rome
Audience	All who visited him
Message	The kingdom of God and Jesus Christ
Approach	With all confidence, unhindered

Paul’s example encourages us to share the gospel in every situation, no matter the challenges we face. Like Paul, we can preach with boldness, welcoming all who are interested in learning about Jesus.

Conclusion

Acts 28 serves as a powerful reminder that God’s plans and purposes will prevail, no matter the circumstances. Throughout Paul’s journey to Rome, I’ve seen how God protected and provided for him, enabling him to share the gospel with both Jews and Gentiles.

Paul’s unwavering faith and dedication to his mission inspire me to trust God in all situations and share the message of Jesus boldly. His example demonstrates that challenges and obstacles should never hinder our commitment to spreading the truth of God’s kingdom.

As I reflect on this chapter, I’m encouraged to welcome every opportunity to share the gospel, knowing that God’s Word will not return void. Like Paul, I want to remain steadfast in my faith, always ready to give an answer for the hope that I have in Christ.

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