“For the next two years, Paul lived in Rome at his own expense. He welcomed all who visited him, boldly proclaiming the Kingdom of God and teaching about the Lord Jesus Christ. And no one tried to stop him.”
Acts 28:30-31 (NLT)
For two whole years, Paul lived in a home he rented while waiting for his trial before Caesar. He may have been in chains, and he clearly could not go wherever he wanted. Yet he welcomed everyone who came to him, preached the Kingdom of God, and taught about the Lord Jesus Christ with boldness. Paul was confined, but the gospel was unhindered.
This is what fascinates me. Throughout Acts, the gospel would spread and then meet resistance. Paul faced beatings, stonings, death threats, imprisonment, and all kinds of persecution. Now, while he had to be still, God sent people directly to him. Paul taught those who came, invested in leaders, and sent teaching out through the letters he wrote. His ministry flourished without hindrance while he lived in confinement.
How many people were saved, taught, blessed, and encouraged during those two years? It would be impossible to count. The book of Acts closes with Paul in one of the most influential cities in the world, sharing the good news openly. He completed the assignment God gave him, and the gospel continued spreading from Rome without hindrance.
Today, we should welcome everyone God sends us to teach, encourage, motivate, and point toward Jesus. We should give away everything God has given us and everything He has taught us. But we must keep our ears open, our eyes open, and allow God to change our hearts. When He sends people for us to minister to, let’s speak about God’s Kingdom and the Lordship of Jesus boldly, openly, and without restraint.