Paul Before Jews in Rome (Acts 28:23-28)
This scene is Paul's arrival and appearance before Jews in Rome. It is not a defense in the face of hostility, but Paul is still on the defensive in addressing this sect that is spoken against everywhere.
 
Text Observations
AC 28:23 And when they had set a day for him, they came to him at his lodging in large numbers; and he was explaining to them by solemnly testifying about the kingdom of God, and trying to persuade them concerning Jesus, from both the Law of Moses and from the Prophets, from morning until evening. [24] And some were being persuaded by the things spoken, but others would not believe.  Paul testifies concerning Jesus, trying to persuade them from the Law and Prophets concerning Jesus.
AC 28:[25] And when they did not agree with one another, they began leaving after Paul had spoken one parting word, "The Holy Spirit rightly spoke through Isaiah the prophet to your fathers, [26] saying,
  `GO TO THIS PEOPLE AND SAY,
  "YOU WILL KEEP ON HEARING, BUT WILL NOT UNDERSTAND;
  AND YOU WILL KEEP ON SEEING, BUT WILL NOT PERCEIVE; [27] FOR THE HEART OF THIS PEOPLE HAS BECOME DULL,
  AND WITH THEIR EARS THEY SCARCELY HEAR,
  AND THEY HAVE CLOSED THEIR EYES;
  LEST THEY SHOULD SEE WITH THEIR EYES,
  AND HEAR WITH THEIR EARS,
  AND UNDERSTAND WITH THEIR HEART AND RETURN,
  AND I SHOULD HEAL THEM."'
AC 28:28 "Let it be known to you therefore, that this salvation of God has been sent to the Gentiles; they will also listen."  Paul mentions that this message of salvation is also sent to Gentiles, and they will listen to it.

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Comments Copyright © 2002 John Engler. All rights reserved.