What does "three days later" teach us about preparation and faith in God? Setting the Scene in Rome “Three days later Paul called together the leaders of the Jews. …” (Acts 28:17) • Paul has just arrived in Rome as a prisoner (Acts 28:16). • He is chained to a soldier, yet free to receive visitors (v. 16, 30). • God had already promised, “You must testify in Rome” (Acts 23:11). Prompt Preparation on Day Three What does Paul’s “three days later” teach us about readiness? • He does not waste time; within seventy-two hours he gathers the key people he needs to address. • He has clearly thought through his testimony (vv. 17-20). • Preparation is visible: facts gathered, message arranged, Scriptures at hand. • Compare Proverbs 6:6-8—like the ant, Paul prepares in advance of need. Faith That Acts Quickly Three truths surface: 1. Faith rests on God’s prior word (Acts 23:11). Because the Lord guaranteed his witness in Rome, Paul moves forward confidently. 2. Faith expresses itself in action (James 2:17). Paul’s belief shows up in immediate initiative, not passive waiting. 3. Faith expects God to work through ordinary means. He summons local leaders, trusting God will open hearts (Acts 28:24). God’s Pattern of “Third-Day” Readiness Scripture often pairs the third day with decisive acts of God, underscoring trust and preparation: • Genesis 22:4 – Abraham sees Mount Moriah on the third day, prepared to obey. • Exodus 19:11 – Israel prepares two days; on the third day God descends on Sinai. • Joshua 1:11; 3:2 – the people provision themselves; on the third day they cross the Jordan. • Hosea 6:2 – “After two days He will revive us; on the third day He will raise us up.” • Luke 24:7 – Christ foretells His resurrection “and on the third day rise again,” the ultimate act of deliverance. Each moment shows careful preparation married to confident expectation of God’s intervention. Practical Takeaways for Today • Redeem arrival moments. New job, school, or city? Begin spiritual initiative within days, not months. • Prepare testimony in advance (1 Peter 3:15). Have facts, Scriptures, and a clear gospel outline ready. • Act on God’s promises. If He has spoken in His Word, trust Him enough to move. • Keep momentum with patient endurance. Paul’s first Rome meeting took three days; full results emerged over two years (Acts 28:30-31). Related Scriptures for Further Reflection Proverbs 16:3; Luke 12:35-36; Hebrews 11:8-9; 2 Timothy 4:2. |
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