What is the meaning of Acts 28:20? So for this reason Paul is in Rome under house arrest (Acts 28:16). Earlier he explained to the Roman Jews that, though the Roman authorities found no basis for execution, Jewish opposition forced him to appeal to Caesar (Acts 28:17-19). • He’s making clear that the only motive behind this meeting is gospel proclamation, not self-defense. • Similar clarifying statements appear in Acts 23:1; 24:10-16; 26:19-23, where Paul repeatedly explains his actions as obedience to God’s call. I have called to see you Paul summons the local Jewish leaders rather than waiting for them to come. • This demonstrates initiative and respect—he still sees himself as part of Israel (Romans 9:1-4). • He follows the pattern of going “to the Jew first” (Acts 13:46; Romans 1:16). • Even chained, he uses every opening to share Christ, echoing 2 Timothy 4:2, “be ready in season and out of season”. and speak with you Conversation, not confrontation, is Paul’s aim. • He wants dialogue regarding the gospel, much like he reasoned in synagogues throughout Acts (17:2-3, 17). • This reflects 1 Peter 3:15: “Always be prepared to give an answer…with gentleness and respect”. • His willingness to “explain and declare” (Acts 28:23) shows confidence that Scripture, rightly presented, convinces hearts. It is because of the hope of Israel The “hope” centers on the promised Messiah and the resurrection (Acts 26:6-8; Jeremiah 14:8). • Paul sees Jesus as the fulfillment of Israel’s prophetic hope (Luke 24:25-27; Acts 13:32-33). • Resurrection is key: “I stand on trial because of my hope in the resurrection of the dead” (Acts 23:6). • This hope is not abandoned but realized in Christ (Acts 24:14-15; Titus 2:13). that I am bound with this chain Paul’s physical chain highlights the ironic contrast: Israel’s own hope has led to his imprisonment. • He wears the chain as Christ’s ambassador (Ephesians 6:20), turning suffering into testimony (Philippians 1:12-14). • The chain underscores the cost of faithfully preaching the gospel (2 Timothy 2:9). • Yet the gospel remains “unhindered” (Acts 28:31), proving that no earthly restraint can silence God’s word. summary Acts 28:20 shows Paul explaining that his captivity is not for political sedition but for proclaiming Israel’s long-awaited hope—Jesus the risen Messiah. He initiates respectful dialogue with Jewish leaders to make that truth plain, demonstrating that even chains serve the gospel’s advance and affirming God’s faithfulness to every promise in Scripture. |
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