Finally Paul arrives in Rome. We know from Christian tradition that Paul died in Rome, beheaded for his faith in Christ. But that is not how the book of Acts ends. In fact, it implies that Paul would eventually be released. Everything comes full circle as he speaks to Jews in Rome. They are unaware of the plot against Paul. He presents the gospel to them and the response is mixed (some converting and some not). Throughout the entirety of his ministry, Paul was unable to get the positive response he yearned for from the Jews. Verse 28, in contrast, presents the reality of his ministry, that his ministry ended up mainly touching Gentiles.
The book of Acts ends with a triumphant finish with Paul still presenting the gospel,even under house arrest. Again, the Acts of the Holy Spirit continue...
The open-ended character of the end of Acts leads me to think that the rest of the history of the Acts of the Holy Spirit is still to be written be each generation of Jesus-followers. If you and I were to write the St. Barnabas version of Acts 29, what might it discuss?
It has been a great joy to share in this study with you. I look forward to our closing class tomorrow and our celebration of Holy Communion.
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