Reading Acts Chapter 28 Out Loud from the King James Version Bible
·6 min
The episode begins with Paul and others escaping a shipwreck and landing on the island of Melita. The local people show kindness by lighting a fire in the rain and cold. Paul gathers sticks for the fire, and a viper bites his hand, but he shakes it off without harm, astonishing the islanders who first think he is a murderer then a god. They are hosted by Publius, the chief man of the island. Paul heals Publius's father, who is sick with fever and bloody flux, leading others on the island to come for healing. After three months, they depart on a ship from Alexandria with the sign Castor and Pollux, traveling to Syracuse, Regium, and Putia, where they meet brethren. They proceed to Rome, with brethren meeting them at Aplia Forum and the three taverns, giving Paul courage. In Rome, Paul is allowed to dwell by himself with a soldier guarding him. After three days, he calls together the chief Jews and explains his imprisonment, stating he was delivered from Jerusalem to the Romans despite no cause for death, and he appealed to Caesar not to accuse his nation. He says he is bound for the hope of Israel. The Jews respond that they have received no negative reports about him and want to hear his thoughts, noting his sect is spoken against everywhere. They appoint a day, and many come to his lodging, where he expounds and testifies about the kingdom of God, persuading them concerning Jesus from the law of Moses and prophets from morning till evening. Some believe, and some do not, leading to disagreement. Paul quotes the Holy Ghost through Esaias the prophet, saying the people will hear but not understand, see but not perceive, due to their hardened hearts, and declares salvation is sent to the Gentiles. The Jews depart with great reasoning among themselves. Paul dwells for two whole years in his own hired house, receiving all who come, preaching the kingdom of God and teaching about Jesus with confidence, no one forbidding him.
