Erin, a teaching pastor, recently concluded a 47-month journey through the Book of Acts with his congregation. This extensive study has provided profound insights into the life and mission of Paul, one of Christianity's most influential figures. Erin's reflections on Paul's journey to Rome, his trials, and his unwavering faith offer valuable lessons for believers today.
Erin shares his joy of working with the Warburg wrestling team for the past four years. He conducts weekly Bible studies with the wrestlers, meeting on Tuesdays after practice and Thursdays at his house to study the Book of Matthew. Many of these wrestlers are new to faith and have no church background, yet they are finding joy and community in these studies. One wrestler recently finished reading Matthew, and Erin suggested they move on to Acts next.
Erin invites the congregation to open their Bibles to Acts 28, where Paul’s journey to Rome is recounted. Paul faced numerous challenges: he was arrested, endured four trials, appealed to Rome, survived a storm, a plot against his life, a shipwreck, and a snake bite. Despite being under house arrest in Rome, Paul was allowed visitors and was not seen as a threat.
Paul called local Jewish leaders to explain his situation and his appeal to Caesar. The Romans had examined Paul and wanted to free him, but the Jews objected, leading Paul to appeal to Caesar. Paul met with the Jewish leaders to discuss his belief in Jesus as the Messiah, reasoning from the law of Moses and the prophets from morning till evening.
Erin highlights Paul's strategy of building bridges with the Jewish leaders, emphasizing their shared heritage and beliefs. Paul did not assume hostility despite his past experiences and presented his beliefs clearly without watering down the truth. Erin criticizes modern societal divisions and the lack of dialogue, encouraging believers to maintain communication about faith, even if others don't immediately accept it.
Paul's thorough explanation of the Gospel led some Jews in Rome to believe in Jesus as the Messiah, while others did not. Paul understood this disbelief and quoted Isaiah, highlighting that some people's hearts and minds are closed. He expressed his sorrow for his fellow Jews' disbelief, wishing he could sacrifice his salvation for their sake.
Erin shares a personal story about meeting Tony Veeland, a former Broncos player, who found faith through a series of correspondences with a lady who prayed for injured players. Tony's journey to faith underscores the importance of keeping communication open for sharing the gospel. Erin cites a statistic that people need to hear the gospel 21 times before believing, encouraging continuous love, service, and grace towards others.
Erin reflects on the abrupt ending of Acts, contrasting it with Luke's detailed writing style. During his two years under house arrest, Paul wrote Philippians, Colossians, Ephesians, and Philemon. He met Onesimus, a runaway slave, converted him, and sent him back to his master with a letter. After two years, Paul was released, but his subsequent travels are uncertain. Some believe he went west to Spain, while others suggest he visited Colossae, Ephesus, or Crete. Historian Eusebius stated that Paul was rearrested, taken to Rome, and martyred under Nero.
Erin encourages followers of Jesus to continue the work of the Holy Spirit, addressing non-believers and referencing Isaiah's prophecy about understanding and turning to God. He explains that all humans are born in sin, but God recognizes His image in them and wants to restore it. Jesus died for humanity's sins to offer forgiveness and a relationship with Him. Erin invites listeners to give their lives to Jesus and join in prayer.
Erin concludes with a call to remember Jesus' sacrifice through communion, inviting believers to participate and reflect on their commitment to the Lord. He emphasizes the importance of presenting the truth calmly and rationally, standing firm on beliefs while leading with grace. As we reflect on Paul's journey and legacy, let us be inspired to share the gospel with love, service, and unwavering faith.
