17 After three days he called together the local leaders of the Jews, and when they had gathered, he said to them, “Brothers, though I had done nothing against our people or the customs of our fathers, yet I was delivered as a prisoner from Jerusalem into the hands of the Romans.

18 When they had examined me, they wished to set me at liberty, because there was no reason for the death penalty in my case. 19 But because the Jews objected, I was compelled to appeal to Caesar—though I had no charge to bring against my nation. 20 For this reason, therefore, I have asked to see you and speak with you, since it is because of the hope of Israel that I am wearing this chain.” 

21 And they said to him, “We have received no letters from Judea about you, and none of the brothers coming here has reported or spoken any evil about you. 22 But we desire to hear from you what your views are, for with regard to this sect we know that everywhere it is spoken against.”

Acts 28:17-22 (ESV) 中文

In Rome

Paul has made it to Rome. After two and a half years of trials by the Jews in Jerusalem then Roman officials in Caesarea, Paul is now in Rome to stand trial before Caesar. After many stops along the way and a winter layover in Maltas due to being ship-wrecked, he’s finally here. This fulfilled God’s promise to Paul (Acts 23:11, 27:23-25) to get him to Rome to witness there – even to Caesar (Emperor Nero at the time).

Why am I here, in chains?

Paul got quickly to work. He arranged this meeting with the Jewish leaders to explain why he is in Rome and why the chains. The first thing he does is explain that, though he’s in chains, he is innocent. He’s been falsely accused. Even the Roman governors have pronounced him not guilty. But those Jewish leaders couldn’t drop the case so Paul was forced to appeal to Caesar. We also know they had threatened to kill him – a real motivation to make the appeal.

Paul was careful to point out that he has no beef with Jews as a nation. He was in chains for one reason: his belief in the hope of Israel – which they likely understood as Messiah, even Jesus. He just plants the idea to peak their interest in knowing more about the “hope of Israel”.

You’re cool, but not “hope of Israel”

These Jewish leaders report that they’ve heard nothing about Paul. His slate is clean. I guess they didn’t know about his former life of persecuting the followers of Christ either. But as for what he professes, this “hope of Israel”, now that’s another matter. They’ve only heard bad reports about it.

RЯeflection

• Paul sets out to explain why he is in Rome. He knows exactly why – especially since it was prophesied by God. It also aligns with his life work – to spread the good news of salvation in Christ. What is our purpose? Jesus’ command is to go and make disciples (Matt 28:19) of all peoples. Are we doing that?
• Are you a disciple of Christ? If not and you’d like to know more, click here or contact us.