Salvation bible study including Acts chapters 23 through 28 and Romans

 

Here is a salvation bible study containing chapters 23 through 28 of Acts which relate the hearings now that Paul is now a prisoner of the gospel (and the Jews who were envious) with all of the hearings before the different people involved, including King Aggripa to whom Paul also shares his testimony as well. Paul also appeals to Caesar so then he is transported to Rome in the last two chapters with the miracles involved and the testimony of his ministry in Rome at the end of Acts where many do receive the message while others don’t. Also included is the salvation itself that is written by Paul to the Romans from a good many passages from that epistle.

To start of this bible study, In Acts 23 Paul then appeals to the division between the Pharisees and Sadducees as Paul was Sadducee himself. Jesus tells Paul that he must bear witness of Him at Rome as he had in Jerusalem. Men take an oath to kill Paul but Paul is protected from this plot. In the end there is a pledge of the governor to hear him when Paul’s accusers are come

And Paul, earnestly beholding the council, said, Men and brethren, I have lived in all good conscience before God until this day.

(Acts 23:1)

 

And the high priest Ananias commanded them that stood by him to smite him on the mouth.

(Acts 23:2)

 

Then said Paul unto him, God shall smite thee, thou whited wall: for sittest thou to judge me after the law, and commandest me to be smitten contrary to the law?

(Acts 23:3)

 

And they that stood by said, Revilest thou God's high priest?

(Acts 23:4)

 

Then said Paul, I wist not, brethren, that he was the high priest: for it is written, Thou shalt not speak evil of the ruler of thy people.

(Acts 23:5)

 

But when Paul perceived that the one part were Sadducees, and the other Pharisees, he cried out in the council, Men and brethren, I am a Pharisee, the son of a Pharisee: of the hope and resurrection of the dead I am called in question.

(Acts 23:6)

 

And when he had so said, there arose a dissension between the Pharisees and the Sadducees: and the multitude was divided.

(Acts 23:7)

 

For the Sadducees say that there is no resurrection, neither angel, nor spirit: but the Pharisees confess both.

(Acts 23:8)

 

And there arose a great cry: and the scribes that were of the Pharisees' part arose, and strove, saying, We find no evil in this man: but if a spirit or an angel hath spoken to him, let us not fight against God.

(Acts 23:9)

 

And when there arose a great dissension, the chief captain, fearing lest Paul should have been pulled in pieces of them, commanded the soldiers to go down, and to take him by force from among them, and to bring him into the castle.

(Acts 23:10)

 

And the night following the Lord stood by him, and said, Be of good cheer, Paul: for as thou hast testified of me in Jerusalem, so must thou bear witness also at Rome.

(Acts 23:11)

 

And when it was day, certain of the Jews banded together, and bound themselves under a curse, saying that they would neither eat nor drink till they had killed Paul.

(Acts 23:12)

 

And they were more than forty which had made this conspiracy.

(Acts 23:13)

 

And they came to the chief priests and elders, and said, We have bound ourselves under a great curse, that we will eat nothing until we have slain Paul.

(Acts 23:14)

 

Now therefore ye with the council signify to the chief captain that he bring him down unto you to morrow, as though ye would enquire something more perfectly concerning him: and we, or ever he come near, are ready to kill him.

(Acts 23:15)

 

And when Paul's sister's son heard of their lying in wait, he went and entered into the castle, and told Paul.

(Acts 23:16)

 

Then Paul called one of the centurions unto him, and said, Bring this young man unto the chief captain: for he hath a certain thing to tell him.

(Acts 23:17)

 

So he took him, and brought him to the chief captain, and said, Paul the prisoner called me unto him, and prayed me to bring this young man unto thee, who hath something to say unto thee.

(Acts 23:18)

 

Then the chief captain took him by the hand, and went with him aside privately, and asked him, What is that thou hast to tell me?

(Acts 23:19)

 

And he said, The Jews have agreed to desire thee that thou wouldest bring down Paul to morrow into the council, as though they would enquire somewhat of him more perfectly.

(Acts 23:20)

 

But do not thou yield unto them: for there lie in wait for him of them more than forty men, which have bound themselves with an oath, that they will neither eat nor drink till they have killed him: and now are they ready, looking for a promise from thee.

(Acts 23:21)

 

So the chief captain then let the young man depart, and charged him, See thou tell no man that thou hast shewed these things to me.

(Acts 23:22)

 

And he called unto him two centurions, saying, Make ready two hundred soldiers to go to Caesarea, and horsemen threescore and ten, and spearmen two hundred, at the third hour of the night;

(Acts 23:23)

 

And provide them beasts, that they may set Paul on, and bring him safe unto Felix the governor.

(Acts 23:24)

 

And he wrote a letter after this manner:

(Acts 23:25)

 

Claudius Lysias unto the most excellent governor Felix sendeth greeting.

(Acts 23:26)

 

This man was taken of the Jews, and should have been killed of them: then came I with an army, and rescued him, having understood that he was a Roman.

(Acts 23:27)

 

And when I would have known the cause wherefore they accused him, I brought him forth into their council:

(Acts 23:28)

 

Whom I perceived to be accused of questions of their law, but to have nothing laid to his charge worthy of death or of bonds.

(Acts 23:29)

 

And when it was told me how that the Jews laid wait for the man, I sent straightway to thee, and gave commandment to his accusers also to say before thee what they had against him. Farewell.

(Acts 23:30)

 

Then the soldiers, as it was commanded them, took Paul, and brought him by night to Antipatris.

(Acts 23:31)

 

On the morrow they left the horsemen to go with him, and returned to the castle:

(Acts 23:32)

 

Who, when they came to Caesarea, and delivered the epistle to the governor, presented Paul also before him.

(Acts 23:33)

 

And when the governor had read the letter, he asked of what province he was. And when he understood that he was of Cilicia;

(Acts 23:34)

 

I will hear thee, said he, when thine accusers are also come. And he commanded him to be kept in Herod's judgment hall.

(Acts 23:35)

 

In Acts 24 Paul then has this hearing which is largely inconclusive and so Paul is largely kept in prison for a long time(kept bound) as the different people change around and all

And after five days Ananias the high priest descended with the elders, and with a certain orator named Tertullus, who informed the governor against Paul.

(Acts 24:1)

 

And when he was called forth, Tertullus began to accuse him, saying, Seeing that by thee we enjoy great quietness, and that very worthy deeds are done unto this nation by thy providence,

(Acts 24:2)

 

We accept it always, and in all places, most noble Felix, with all thankfulness.

(Acts 24:3)

 

Notwithstanding, that I be not further tedious unto thee, I pray thee that thou wouldest hear us of thy clemency a few words.

(Acts 24:4)

 

For we have found this man a pestilent fellow, and a mover of sedition among all the Jews throughout the world, and a ringleader of the sect of the Nazarenes:

(Acts 24:5)

 

Who also hath gone about to profane the temple: whom we took, and would have judged according to our law.

(Acts 24:6)

 

But the chief captain Lysias came upon us, and with great violence took him away out of our hands,

(Acts 24:7)

 

Commanding his accusers to come unto thee: by examining of whom thyself mayest take knowledge of all these things, whereof we accuse him.

(Acts 24:8)

 

And the Jews also assented, saying that these things were so.

(Acts 24:9)

 

Then Paul, after that the governor had beckoned unto him to speak, answered, Forasmuch as I know that thou hast been of many years a judge unto this nation, I do the more cheerfully answer for myself:

(Acts 24:10)

 

Because that thou mayest understand, that there are yet but twelve days since I went up to Jerusalem for to worship.

(Acts 24:11)

 

And they neither found me in the temple disputing with any man, neither raising up the people, neither in the synagogues, nor in the city:

(Acts 24:12)

 

Neither can they prove the things whereof they now accuse me.

(Acts 24:13)

 

But this I confess unto thee, that after the way which they call heresy, so worship I the God of my fathers, believing all things which are written in the law and in the prophets:

(Acts 24:14)

 

And have hope toward God, which they themselves also allow, that there shall be a resurrection of the dead, both of the just and unjust.

(Acts 24:15)

 

And herein do I exercise myself, to have always a conscience void of offence toward God, and toward men.

(Acts 24:16)

 

Now after many years I came to bring alms to my nation, and offerings.

(Acts 24:17)

 

Whereupon certain Jews from Asia found me purified in the temple, neither with multitude, nor with tumult.

(Acts 24:18)

 

Who ought to have been here before thee, and object, if they had ought against me.

(Acts 24:19)

 

Or else let these same here say, if they have found any evil doing in me, while I stood before the council,

(Acts 24:20)

 

Except it be for this one voice, that I cried standing among them, Touching the resurrection of the dead I am called in question by you this day.

(Acts 24:21)

 

And when Felix heard these things, having more perfect knowledge of that way, he deferred them, and said, When Lysias the chief captain shall come down, I will know the uttermost of your matter.

(Acts 24:22)

 

And he commanded a centurion to keep Paul, and to let him have liberty, and that he should forbid none of his acquaintance to minister or come unto him.

(Acts 24:23)

 

And after certain days, when Felix came with his wife Drusilla, which was a Jewess, he sent for Paul, and heard him concerning the faith in Christ.

(Acts 24:24)

 

And as he reasoned of righteousness, temperance, and judgment to come, Felix trembled, and answered, Go thy way for this time; when I have a convenient season, I will call for thee.

(Acts 24:25)

 

He hoped also that money should have been given him of Paul, that he might loose him: wherefore he sent for him the oftener, and communed with him.

(Acts 24:26)

 

But after two years Porcius Festus came into Felix' room: and Felix, willing to shew the Jews a pleasure, left Paul bound.

(Acts 24:27)

 

Acts chapter 25 is where, during the continual hearings, that Paul decided to appeal to Caesar and then King Agrippa decides to hear from Paul on all of these things and will, too for he wants to know what to write of when sending Paul to Rome

Now when Festus was come into the province, after three days he ascended from Caesarea to Jerusalem.

(Acts 25:1)

 

Then the high priest and the chief of the Jews informed him against Paul, and besought him,

(Acts 25:2)

 

And desired favour against him, that he would send for him to Jerusalem, laying wait in the way to kill him.

(Acts 25:3)

 

But Festus answered, that Paul should be kept at Caesarea, and that he himself would depart shortly thither.

(Acts 25:4)

 

Let them therefore, said he, which among you are able, go down with me, and accuse this man, if there be any wickedness in him.

(Acts 25:5)

 

And when he had tarried among them more than ten days, he went down unto Caesarea; and the next day sitting on the judgment seat commanded Paul to be brought.

(Acts 25:6)

 

And when he was come, the Jews which came down from Jerusalem stood round about, and laid many and grievous complaints against Paul, which they could not prove.

(Acts 25:7)

 

While he answered for himself, Neither against the law of the Jews, neither against the temple, nor yet against Caesar, have I offended any thing at all.

(Acts 25:8)

 

But Festus, willing to do the Jews a pleasure, answered Paul, and said, Wilt thou go up to Jerusalem, and there be judged of these things before me?

(Acts 25:9)

 

Then said Paul, I stand at Caesar's judgment seat, where I ought to be judged: to the Jews have I done no wrong, as thou very well knowest.

(Acts 25:10)

 

For if I be an offender, or have committed any thing worthy of death, I refuse not to die: but if there be none of these things whereof these accuse me, no man may deliver me unto them. I appeal unto Caesar.

(Acts 25:11)

 

Then Festus, when he had conferred with the council, answered, Hast thou appealed unto Caesar? unto Caesar shalt thou go.

(Acts 25:12)

 

And after certain days king Agrippa and Bernice came unto Caesarea to salute Festus.

(Acts 25:13)

 

And when they had been there many days, Festus declared Paul's cause unto the king, saying, There is a certain man left in bonds by Felix:

(Acts 25:14)

 

About whom, when I was at Jerusalem, the chief priests and the elders of the Jews informed me, desiring to have judgment against him.

(Acts 25:15)

 

To whom I answered, It is not the manner of the Romans to deliver any man to die, before that he which is accused have the accusers face to face, and have licence to answer for himself concerning the crime laid against him.

(Acts 25:16)

 

Therefore, when they were come hither, without any delay on the morrow I sat on the judgment seat, and commanded the man to be brought forth.

(Acts 25:17)

 

Against whom when the accusers stood up, they brought none accusation of such things as I supposed:

(Acts 25:18)

 

But had certain questions against him of their own superstition, and of one Jesus, which was dead, whom Paul affirmed to be alive.

(Acts 25:19)

 

And because I doubted of such manner of questions, I asked him whether he would go to Jerusalem, and there be judged of these matters.

(Acts 25:20)

 

But when Paul had appealed to be reserved unto the hearing of Augustus, I commanded him to be kept till I might send him to Caesar.

(Acts 25:21)

 

Then Agrippa said unto Festus, I would also hear the man myself. To morrow, said he, thou shalt hear him.

(Acts 25:22)

 

And on the morrow, when Agrippa was come, and Bernice, with great pomp, and was entered into the place of hearing, with the chief captains, and principal men of the city, at Festus' commandment Paul was brought forth.

(Acts 25:23)

 

And Festus said, King Agrippa, and all men which are here present with us, ye see this man, about whom all the multitude of the Jews have dealt with me, both at Jerusalem, and also here, crying that he ought not to live any longer.

(Acts 25:24)

 

But when I found that he had committed nothing worthy of death, and that he himself hath appealed to Augustus, I have determined to send him.

(Acts 25:25)

 

Of whom I have no certain thing to write unto my lord. Wherefore I have brought him forth before you, and specially before thee, O king Agrippa, that, after examination had, I might have somewhat to write.

(Acts 25:26)

 

For it seemeth to me unreasonable to send a prisoner, and not withal to signify the crimes laid against him.

(Acts 25:27)

 

Acts chapter 26 relates Paul’s hearing before Agrippa where Paul then again shares the testimony of his conversion and also some of the various instruction from Jesus and then witnesses some to Agrippa, coming close to converting him. Agrippa then states how Paul might have been freed if he had not appealed to Caesar.

Then Agrippa said unto Paul, Thou art permitted to speak for thyself. Then Paul stretched forth the hand, and answered for himself:

(Acts 26:1)

 

I think myself happy, king Agrippa, because I shall answer for myself this day before thee touching all the things whereof I am accused of the Jews:

(Acts 26:2)

 

Especially because I know thee to be expert in all customs and questions which are among the Jews: wherefore I beseech thee to hear me patiently.

(Acts 26:3)

 

My manner of life from my youth, which was at the first among mine own nation at Jerusalem, know all the Jews;

(Acts 26:4)

 

Which knew me from the beginning, if they would testify, that after the most straitest sect of our religion I lived a Pharisee.

(Acts 26:5)

 

And now I stand and am judged for the hope of the promise made of God unto our fathers:

(Acts 26:6)

 

Unto which promise our twelve tribes, instantly serving God day and night, hope to come. For which hope's sake, king Agrippa, I am accused of the Jews.

(Acts 26:7)

 

Why should it be thought a thing incredible with you, that God should raise the dead?

(Acts 26:8)

 

I verily thought with myself, that I ought to do many things contrary to the name of Jesus of Nazareth.

(Acts 26:9)

 

Which thing I also did in Jerusalem: and many of the saints did I shut up in prison, having received authority from the chief priests; and when they were put to death, I gave my voice against them.

(Acts 26:10)

 

And I punished them oft in every synagogue, and compelled them to blaspheme; and being exceedingly mad against them, I persecuted them even unto strange cities.

(Acts 26:11)

 

Whereupon as I went to Damascus with authority and commission from the chief priests,

(Acts 26:12)

 

At midday, O king, I saw in the way a light from heaven, above the brightness of the sun, shining round about me and them which journeyed with me.

(Acts 26:13)

 

And when we were all fallen to the earth, I heard a voice speaking unto me, and saying in the Hebrew tongue, Saul, Saul, why persecutest thou me? it is hard for thee to kick against the pricks.

(Acts 26:14)

 

And I said, Who art thou, Lord? And he said, I am Jesus whom thou persecutest.

(Acts 26:15)

 

But rise, and stand upon thy feet: for I have appeared unto thee for this purpose, to make thee a minister and a witness both of these things which thou hast seen, and of those things in the which I will appear unto thee;

(Acts 26:16)

 

Delivering thee from the people, and from the Gentiles, unto whom now I send thee,

(Acts26:17)

 

To open their eyes, and to turn them from darkness to light, and from the power of Satan unto God, that they may receive forgiveness of sins, and inheritance among them which are sanctified by faith that is in me.

(Acts 26:18)

 

Whereupon, O king Agrippa, I was not disobedient unto the heavenly vision:

(Acts 26:19)

 

But shewed first unto them of Damascus, and at Jerusalem, and throughout all the coasts of Judaea, and then to the Gentiles, that they should repent and turn to God, and do works meet for repentance.

(Acts 26:20)

 

For these causes the Jews caught me in the temple, and went about to kill me.

(Acts 26:21)

 

Having therefore obtained help of God, I continue unto this day, witnessing both to small and great, saying none other things than those which the prophets and Moses did say should come:

(Acts 26:22)

 

That Christ should suffer, and that he should be the first that should rise from the dead, and should shew light unto the people, and to the Gentiles.

(Acts 26:23)

 

And as he thus spake for himself, Festus said with a loud voice, Paul, thou art beside thyself; much learning doth make thee mad.

(Acts 26:24)

 

But he said, I am not mad, most noble Festus; but speak forth the words of truth and soberness.

(Acts 26:25)

 

For the king knoweth of these things, before whom also I speak freely: for I am persuaded that none of these things are hidden from him; for this thing was not done in a corner.

(Acts 26:26)

 

King Agrippa, believest thou the prophets? I know that thou believest.

(Acts 26:27)

 

Then Agrippa said unto Paul, Almost thou persuadest me to be a Christian.

(Acts 26:28)

 

And Paul said, I would to God, that not only thou, but also all that hear me this day, were both almost, and altogether such as I am, except these bonds.

(Acts 26:29)

 

And when he had thus spoken, the king rose up, and the governor, and Bernice, and they that sat with them:

(Acts 26:30)

 

And when they were gone aside, they talked between themselves, saying, This man doeth nothing worthy of death or of bonds.

(Acts 26:31)

 

Then said Agrippa unto Festus, This man might have been set at liberty, if he had not appealed unto Caesar.

(Act 26:32)

 

Acts chapter 27 then relates Paul’s journey to Rome and what is entailed there, including the discussions and then the storm which causes the ship to be destroyed by being run aground but without any loss of life at all which is God’s mercy for all of them. Eventually they find a place to stay for the winter

And when it was determined that we should sail into Italy, they delivered Paul and certain other prisoners unto one named Julius, a centurion of Augustus' band.

(Acts 27:1)

 

And entering into a ship of Adramyttium, we launched, meaning to sail by the coasts of Asia; one Aristarchus, a Macedonian of Thessalonica, being with us.

(Acts 27:2)

 

And the next day we touched at Sidon. And Julius courteously entreated Paul, and gave him liberty to go unto his friends to refresh himself.

(Acts 27:3)

 

And when we had launched from thence, we sailed under Cyprus, because the winds were contrary.

(Acts 27:4)

 

And when we had sailed over the sea of Cilicia and Pamphylia, we came to Myra, a city of Lycia.

(Acts 27:5)

 

And there the centurion found a ship of Alexandria sailing into Italy; and he put us therein.

(Acts 27:6)

 

And when we had sailed slowly many days, and scarce were come over against Cnidus, the wind not suffering us, we sailed under Crete, over against Salmone;

(Acts 27:7)

 

And, hardly passing it, came unto a place which is called The fair havens; nigh whereunto was the city of Lasea.

(Acts 27:8)

 

Now when much time was spent, and when sailing was now dangerous, because the fast was now already past, Paul admonished them,

(Acts 27:9)

 

And said unto them, Sirs, I perceive that this voyage will be with hurt and much damage, not only of the lading and ship, but also of our lives.

(Acts 27:10)

 

Nevertheless the centurion believed the master and the owner of the ship, more than those things which were spoken by Paul.

(Acts 27:11)

 

And because the haven was not commodious to winter in, the more part advised to depart thence also, if by any means they might attain to Phenice, and there to winter; which is an haven of Crete, and lieth toward the south west and north west.

(Acts 27:12)

 

And when the south wind blew softly, supposing that they had obtained their purpose, loosing thence, they sailed close by Crete.

(Acts 27:13)

 

But not long after there arose against it a tempestuous wind, called Euroclydon.

(Acts 27:14)

 

And when the ship was caught, and could not bear up into the wind, we let her drive.

(Acts 27:15)

 

And running under a certain island which is called Clauda, we had much work to come by the boat:

(Acts 27:16)

 

Which when they had taken up, they used helps, undergirding the ship; and, fearing lest they should fall into the quicksands, strake sail, and so were driven.

(Acts 27:17)

 

And we being exceedingly tossed with a tempest, the next day they lightened the ship;

(Acts 27:18)

 

And the third day we cast out with our own hands the tackling of the ship.

(Act 27:19)

 

And when neither sun nor stars in many days appeared, and no small tempest lay on us, all hope that we should be saved was then taken away.

(Acts 27:20)

 

But after long abstinence Paul stood forth in the midst of them, and said, Sirs, ye should have hearkened unto me, and not have loosed from Crete, and to have gained this harm and loss.

(Acts 27:21)

 

And now I exhort you to be of good cheer: for there shall be no loss of any man's life among you, but of the ship.

(Acts 27:22)

 

For there stood by me this night the angel of God, whose I am, and whom I serve,

(Acts 27:23)

 

Saying, Fear not, Paul; thou must be brought before Caesar: and, lo, God hath given thee all them that sail with thee.

(Acts 27:24)

 

Wherefore, sirs, be of good cheer: for I believe God, that it shall be even as it was told me.

(Acts 27:25)

 

Howbeit we must be cast upon a certain island.

(Acts 27:26)

 

But when the fourteenth night was come, as we were driven up and down in Adria, about midnight the shipmen deemed that they drew near to some country;

(Acts 27:27)

 

And sounded, and found it twenty fathoms: and when they had gone a little further, they sounded again, and found it fifteen fathoms.

(Acts 27:28)

 

Then fearing lest we should have fallen upon rocks, they cast four anchors out of the stern, and wished for the day.

(Acts 27:29)

 

And as the shipmen were about to flee out of the ship, when they had let down the boat into the sea, under colour as though they would have cast anchors out of the foreship,

(Acts 27:30)

 

Paul said to the centurion and to the soldiers, Except these abide in the ship, ye cannot be saved.

(Acts 27:31)

 

Then the soldiers cut off the ropes of the boat, and let her fall off.

(Acts 27:32)

 

And while the day was coming on, Paul besought them all to take meat, saying, This day is the fourteenth day that ye have tarried and continued fasting, having taken nothing.

(Acts 27:33)

 

Wherefore I pray you to take some meat: for this is for your health: for there shall not an hair fall from the head of any of you.

(Acts 27:34)

 

And when he had thus spoken, he took bread, and gave thanks to God in presence of them all: and when he had broken it, he began to eat.

(Acts 27:35)

 

Then were they all of good cheer, and they also took some meat.

(Acts 27:36)

 

And we were in all in the ship two hundred threescore and sixteen souls.

(Act 27:37)

 

And when they had eaten enough, they lightened the ship, and cast out the wheat into the sea.

(Acts 27:38)

 

And when it was day, they knew not the land: but they discovered a certain creek with a shore, into the which they were minded, if it were possible, to thrust in the ship.

(Acts 27:39)

 

And when they had taken up the anchors, they committed themselves unto the sea, and loosed the rudder bands, and hoised up the mainsail to the wind, and made toward shore.

(Acts 27:40)

 

And falling into a place where two seas met, they ran the ship aground; and the forepart stuck fast, and remained unmoveable, but the hinder part was broken with the violence of the waves.

(Acts 27:41)

 

And the soldiers' counsel was to kill the prisoners, lest any of them should swim out, and escape.

(Acts 27:42)

 

But the centurion, willing to save Paul, kept them from their purpose; and commanded that they which could swim should cast themselves first into the sea, and get to land:

(Acts 27:43)

 

And the rest, some on boards, and some on broken pieces of the ship. And so it came to pass, that they escaped all safe to land.

(Acts 27:44)

 

In Acts 28 they land on Melita where Paul withstands what would be a deadly bite otherwise of a viper then heals people of various conditions, and then is sent off to complete his journey to Rome where he preaches first to the Jews and then when not too well received of the Jews the Gentiles. He would stay in Rome for two years basically under house arrest but freely preaching the gospel to all.

And when they were escaped, then they knew that the island was called Melita.

(Acts 28:1)

 

And the barbarous people shewed us no little kindness: for they kindled a fire, and received us every one, because of the present rain, and because of the cold.

(Acts 28:2)

 

And when Paul had gathered a bundle of sticks, and laid them on the fire, there came a viper out of the heat, and fastened on his hand.

(Acts 28:3)

 

And when the barbarians saw the venomous beast hang on his hand, they said among themselves, No doubt this man is a murderer, whom, though he hath escaped the sea, yet vengeance suffereth not to live.

(Acts 28:4)

 

And he shook off the beast into the fire, and felt no harm.

(Acts 28:5)

 

Howbeit they looked when he should have swollen, or fallen down dead suddenly: but after they had looked a great while, and saw no harm come to him, they changed their minds, and said that he was a god.

(Acts 28:6)

 

In the same quarters were possessions of the chief man of the island, whose name was Publius; who received us, and lodged us three days courteously.

(Acts 28:7)

 

And it came to pass, that the father of Publius lay sick of a fever and of a bloody flux: to whom Paul entered in, and prayed, and laid his hands on him, and healed him.

(Acts 28:8)

 

So when this was done, others also, which had diseases in the island, came, and were healed:

(Acts 28:9)

 

Who also honoured us with many honours; and when we departed, they laded us with such things as were necessary.

(Acts 28:10)

 

And after three months we departed in a ship of Alexandria, which had wintered in the isle, whose sign was Castor and Pollux.

(Acts 28:11)

 

And landing at Syracuse, we tarried there three days.

(Acts 28:12)

 

And from thence we fetched a compass, and came to Rhegium: and after one day the south wind blew, and we came the next day to Puteoli:

(Acts 28:13)

 

Where we found brethren, and were desired to tarry with them seven days: and so we went toward Rome.

(Acts 28:14)

 

And from thence, when the brethren heard of us, they came to meet us as far as Appii forum, and The three taverns: whom when Paul saw, he thanked God, and took courage.

(Acts 28:15)

 

And when we came to Rome, the centurion delivered the prisoners to the captain of the guard: but Paul was suffered to dwell by himself with a soldier that kept him.

(Acts 28:16)

 

And it came to pass, that after three days Paul called the chief of the Jews together: and when they were come together, he said unto them, Men and brethren, though I have committed nothing against the people, or customs of our fathers, yet was I delivered prisoner from Jerusalem into the hands of the Romans.

(Acts 28:17)

 

Who, when they had examined me, would have let me go, because there was no cause of death in me.

(Acts 28:18)

 

But when the Jews spake against it, I was constrained to appeal unto Caesar; not that I had ought to accuse my nation of.

(Acts 28:19)

 

For this cause therefore have I called for you, to see you, and to speak with you: because that for the hope of Israel I am bound with this chain.

(Acts 28:20)

 

And they said unto him, We neither received letters out of Judaea concerning thee, neither any of the brethren that came shewed or spake any harm of thee.

(Acts 28:21)

 

But we desire to hear of thee what thou thinkest: for as concerning this sect, we know that every where it is spoken against.

(Acts 28:22)

 

And when they had appointed him a day, there came many to him into his lodging; to whom he expounded and testified the kingdom of God, persuading them concerning Jesus, both out of the law of Moses, and out of the prophets, from morning till evening.

(Acts 28:23)

 

And some believed the things which were spoken, and some believed not.

(Acts 28:24)

 

And when they agreed not among themselves, they departed, after that Paul had spoken one word, Well spake the Holy Ghost by Esaias the prophet unto our fathers,

(Acts 28:25)

 

Saying, Go unto this people, and say, Hearing ye shall hear, and shall not understand; and seeing ye shall see, and not perceive:

(Acts 28:26)

 

For the heart of this people is waxed gross, and their ears are dull of hearing, and their eyes have they closed; lest they should see with their eyes, and hear with their ears, and understand with their heart, and should be converted, and I should heal them.

(Acts 28:27)

 

Be it known therefore unto you, that the salvation of God is sent unto the Gentiles, and that they will hear it.

(Acts 28:28)

 

And when he had said these words, the Jews departed, and had great reasoning among themselves.

(Acts 28:29)

 

And Paul dwelt two whole years in his own hired house, and received all that came in unto him,

(Acts 28:30)

 

Preaching the kingdom of God, and teaching those things which concern the Lord Jesus Christ, with all confidence, no man forbidding him.

(Acts 28:31)

 

I am now concluding this teaching with a large group of verses from Paul’s epistle to the Romans which present the salvation message very powerfully. The teaching is finished by a prayer of salvation to invite Jesus in your heart to begin a relationship with God to which nothing can compare.

 (Romans 11:11)  I say then, Have they stumbled that they should fall? God forbid: but rather through their fall salvation is come unto the Gentiles, for to provoke them to jealousy.

 

(Romans 11:12)  Now if the fall of them be the riches of the world, and the diminishing of them the riches of the Gentiles; how much more their fulness?

 

(Romans 11:13)  For I speak to you Gentiles, inasmuch as I am the apostle of the Gentiles, I magnify mine office:

 

(Romans 11:14)  If by any means I may provoke to emulation them which are my flesh, and might save some of them.

 

(Romans 11:15)  For if the casting away of them be the reconciling of the world, what shall the receiving of them be, but life from the dead?

 

(Romans 11:16)  For if the firstfruit be holy, the lump is also holy: and if the root be holy, so are the branches.

 

(Romans 11:17)  And if some of the branches be broken off, and thou, being a wild olive tree, wert graffed in among them, and with them partakest of the root and fatness of the olive tree;

 

(Romans 11:18)  Boast not against the branches. But if thou boast, thou bearest not the root, but the root thee.

 

(Romans 11:19)  Thou wilt say then, The branches were broken off, that I might be graffed in.

 

(Romans 11:20)  Well; because of unbelief they were broken off, and thou standest by faith. Be not highminded, but fear:

 

(Romans 11:21)  For if God spared not the natural branches, take heed lest he also spare not thee.

 

(Romans 11:22)  Behold therefore the goodness and severity of God: on them which fell, severity; but toward thee, goodness, if thou continue in his goodness: otherwise thou also shalt be cut off.

 

(Romans 11:23)  And they also, if they abide not still in unbelief, shall be graffed in: for God is able to graff them in again.

 

(Romans 11:24)  For if thou wert cut out of the olive tree which is wild by nature, and wert graffed contrary to nature into a good olive tree: how much more shall these, which be the natural branches, be graffed into their own olive tree?

 

(Romans 11:25)  For I would not, brethren, that ye should be ignorant of this mystery, lest ye should be wise in your own conceits; that blindness in part is happened to Israel, until the fulness of the Gentiles be come in.

 

(Romans 11:26)  And so all Israel shall be saved: as it is written, There shall come out of Sion the Deliverer, and shall turn away ungodliness from Jacob:

 

I am also adding this passage in Romans chapter 1 stating well my own feelings that I am not ashamed of the gospel and want to see the message of salvation shared so people can accept the same by faith so that people can know and be without excuse

(Romans 1:13)  Now I would not have you ignorant, brethren, that oftentimes I purposed to come unto you, (but was let hitherto,) that I might have some fruit among you also, even as among other Gentiles.

 

(Romans 1:14)  I am debtor both to the Greeks, and to the Barbarians; both to the wise, and to the unwise.

 

(Romans 1:15)  So, as much as in me is, I am ready to preach the gospel to you that are at Rome also.

 

(Romans 1:16)  For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek.

 

(Romans 1:17)  For therein is the righteousness of God revealed from faith to faith: as it is written, The just shall live by faith.

 

(Romans 1:18)  For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who hold the truth in unrighteousness;

 

(Romans 1:19)  Because that which may be known of God is manifest in them; for God hath shewed it unto them.

 

(Romans 1:20)  For the invisible things of him from the creation of the world are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even his eternal power and Godhead; so that they are without excuse:

 

I am continuing this  teaching with the passage in Romans 3 which states how nobody does righteously not even one person at all.

 

(Romans 3:9)  What then? are we better than they? No, in no wise: for we have before proved both Jews and Gentiles, that they are all under sin;

 

(Romans 3:10)  As it is written, There is none righteous, no, not one:

 

(Romans 3:11)  There is none that understandeth, there is none that seeketh after God.

 

(Romans 3:12)  They are all gone out of the way, they are together become unprofitable; there is none that doeth good, no, not one.

 

This next passage, also from Romans chapter 3 later on says while all have sinned and fallen short of God’s glory they are then justified through grace and what Jesus did for them at the cross and this is through faith and it excludes boasting

(Romans 3:21)  But now the righteousness of God without the law is manifested, being witnessed by the law and the prophets;

 

(Romans 3:22)  Even the righteousness of God which is by faith of Jesus Christ unto all and upon all them that believe: for there is no difference:

 

(Romans 3:23)  For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God;

 

(Romans 3:24)  Being justified freely by his grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus:

 

(Romans 3:25)  Whom God hath set forth to be a propitiation through faith in his blood, to declare his righteousness for the remission of sins that are past, through the forbearance of God;

 

(Romans 3:26)  To declare, I say, at this time his righteousness: that he might be just, and the justifier of him which believeth in Jesus.

 

(Romans 3:27)  Where is boasting then? It is excluded. By what law? of works? Nay: but by the law of faith.

 

(Romans 3:28)  Therefore we conclude that a man is justified by faith without the deeds of the law.

 

(Romans 3:29)  Is he the God of the Jews only? is he not also of the Gentiles? Yes, of the Gentiles also:

 

(Romans 3:30)  Seeing it is one God, which shall justify the circumcision by faith, and uncircumcision through faith.

 

(Romans 3:31)  Do we then make void the law through faith? God forbid: yea, we establish the law.

 

The last 4 verses of Romans 4 also state how that righteousness is imputed to us for believing  in Jesus death for us and God who raised Him

(Romans 4:22)  And therefore it was imputed to him for righteousness.

 

(Romans 4:23)  Now it was not written for his sake alone, that it was imputed to him;

 

(Romans 4:24)  But for us also, to whom it shall be imputed, if we believe on him that raised up Jesus our Lord from the dead;

 

(Romans 4:25)  Who was delivered for our offences, and was raised again for our justification.

 

This next passage of scripture which contains the last seven verses from Romans chapter 6 speaks of us being freed from sin to live righteous and as servants of God for the wages of sin are death (hell) but God’s gift is eternal life by Jesus

(Romans 6:17)  But God be thanked, that ye were the servants of sin, but ye have obeyed from the heart that form of doctrine which was delivered you.

 

(Romans 6:18)  Being then made free from sin, ye became the servants of righteousness.

 

(Romans 6:19)  I speak after the manner of men because of the infirmity of your flesh: for as ye have yielded your members servants to uncleanness and to iniquity unto iniquity; even so now yield your members servants to righteousness unto holiness.

 

(Romans 6:20)  For when ye were the servants of sin, ye were free from righteousness.

 

(Romans 6:21)  What fruit had ye then in those things whereof ye are now ashamed? for the end of those things is death.

 

(Romans 6:22)  But now being made free from sin, and become servants to God, ye have your fruit unto holiness, and the end everlasting life.

 

(Romans 6:23)  For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.

 

While we were yet weak and in sin God in love sent Jesus to die for us as stated in this passage in Romans chapter 5 as while one mad us all sinners through disobedience one’s obedience also brought all back to righteousness and also reminds us through the offense one many are sinners but through the obedience of one many more were made righteous

 

(Romans 5:6)  For when we were yet without strength, in due time Christ died for the ungodly.

 

(Romans 5:7)  For scarcely for a righteous man will one die: yet peradventure for a good man some would even dare to die.

 

(Romans 5:8)  But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.

 

(Romans 5:9)  Much more then, being now justified by his blood, we shall be saved from wrath through him.

 

(Romans 5:10)  For if, when we were enemies, we were reconciled to God by the death of his Son, much more, being reconciled, we shall be saved by his life.

 

(Romans 5:11)  And not only so, but we also joy in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, by whom we have now received the atonement.

 

(Romans 5:12)  Wherefore, as by one man sin entered into the world, and death by sin; and so death passed upon all men, for that all have sinned

 

(Romans 5:13)  (For until the law sin was in the world: but sin is not imputed when there is no law.

 

(Romans 5:14)  Nevertheless death reigned from Adam to Moses, even over them that had not sinned after the similitude of Adam's transgression, who is the figure of him that was to come.

 

 (Romans 5:15)  But not as the offence, so also is the free gift. For if through the offence of one many be dead, much more the grace of God, and the gift by grace, which is by one man, Jesus Christ, hath abounded unto many.

 

(Romans 5:16)  And not as it was by one that sinned, so is the gift: for the judgment was by one to condemnation, but the free gift is of many offences unto justification.

 

(Romans 5:17)  For if by one man's offence death reigned by one; much more they which receive abundance of grace and of the gift of righteousness shall reign in life by one, Jesus Christ.)

 

(Romans 5:18)  Therefore as by the offence of one judgment came upon all men to condemnation; even so by the righteousness of one the free gift came upon all men unto justification of life.

 

(Romans 5:19)  For as by one man's disobedience many were made sinners, so by the obedience of one shall many be made righteous.

 

The next passage here from Romans chapter 10 explains that the word is near us, how to be saved by confessing Jesus as Lord by mouth and believing that God raised Him from the dead and of the virtues of those who preach the gospel for faith comes by hearing the word of God.

(Romans 10:8)  But what saith it? The word is nigh thee, even in thy mouth, and in thy heart: that is, the word of faith, which we preach;

 

(Romans 10:9)  That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved.

 

(Romans 10:10)  For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation.

 

(Romans 10:11)  For the scripture saith, Whosoever believeth on him shall not be ashamed.

 

(Romans 10:12)  For there is no difference between the Jew and the Greek: for the same Lord over all is rich unto all that call upon him.

 

(Romans 10:13)  For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved.

 

(Romans 10:14)  How then shall they call on him in whom they have not believed? and how shall they believe in him of whom they have not heard? and how shall they hear without a preacher?

 

(Romans 10:15)  And how shall they preach, except they be sent? as it is written, How beautiful are the feet of them that preach the gospel of peace, and bring glad tidings of good things!

 

(Romans 10:16)  But they have not all obeyed the gospel. For Esaias saith, Lord, who hath believed our report?

 

(Romans 10:17)  So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.

 

Here in these first five verses of Romans 5 we now have peace with God being reconciled by Jesus justified by our faith

(Romans 5:1)  Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ:

 

(Romans 5:2)  By whom also we have access by faith into this grace wherein we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of God.

 

(Romans 5:3)  And not only so, but we glory in tribulations also: knowing that tribulation worketh patience;

 

(Romans 5:4)  And patience, experience; and experience, hope:

 

(Romans 5:5)  And hope maketh not ashamed; because the love of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Ghost which is given unto us.

 

Paul reminds us in the first two verses of Romans 8 that there is now no condemnation for those in Christ Jesus

(Romans 8:1)  There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit.

 

(Romans 8:2)  For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus hath made me free from the law of sin and death.

 

(Romans 8:31)  What shall we then say to these things? If God be for us, who can be against us?

 

(Romans 8:32)  He that spared not his own Son, but delivered him up for us all, how shall he not with him also freely give us all things?

 

(Romans 8:33)  Who shall lay any thing to the charge of God's elect? It is God that justifieth.

 

(Romans 8:34)  Who is he that condemneth? It is Christ that died, yea rather, that is risen again, who is even at the right hand of God, who also maketh intercession for us.

 

(Romans 8:35)  Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword?

 

(Romans 8:36)  As it is written, For thy sake we are killed all the day long; we are accounted as sheep for the slaughter.

 

(Romans 8:37)  Nay, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him that loved us.

 

(Romans 8:38)  For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come,

 

(Romans 8:39)  Nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.

 

Finally in Romans 12 we are now to present our bodies as a living sacrifice and are not to be conformed by the word but transformed by the renewing of our mind. We also are now all part of one body and are encouraged to be diligent in giftings from God and loving to one another and not seeking revenge or retaliate but love our enemies and do good. The whole chapter is included for its powerful encourgements and advice for new believers.

(Romans 12:1)  I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service.

 

(Romans 12:2)  And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.

 

(Romans 12:3)  For I say, through the grace given unto me, to every man that is among you, not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think; but to think soberly, according as God hath dealt to every man the measure of faith.

 

(Romans 12:4)  For as we have many members in one body, and all members have not the same office:

 

(Romans 12:5)  So we, being many, are one body in Christ, and every one members one of another.

 

(Romans 12:6)  Having then gifts differing according to the grace that is given to us, whether prophecy, let us prophesy according to the proportion of faith;

 

(Romans 12:7)  Or ministry, let us wait on our ministering: or he that teacheth, on teaching;

 

(Romans 12:8)  Or he that exhorteth, on exhortation: he that giveth, let him do it with simplicity; he that ruleth, with diligence; he that sheweth mercy, with cheerfulness.

 

(Romans 12:9)  Let love be without dissimulation. Abhor that which is evil; cleave to that which is good.

 

(Romans 12:10)  Be kindly affectioned one to another with brotherly love; in honour preferring one another;

 

(Romans 12:11)  Not slothful in business; fervent in spirit; serving the Lord;

 

(Romans 12:12)  Rejoicing in hope; patient in tribulation; continuing instant in prayer;

 

(Romans 12:13)  Distributing to the necessity of saints; given to hospitality.

 

(Romans 12:14)  Bless them which persecute you: bless, and curse not.

 

(Romans 12:15)  Rejoice with them that do rejoice, and weep with them that weep.

 

(Romans 12:16)  Be of the same mind one toward another. Mind not high things, but condescend to men of low estate. Be not wise in your own conceits.

 

(Romans 12:17)  Recompense to no man evil for evil. Provide things honest in the sight of all men.

 

(Romans 12:18)  If it be possible, as much as lieth in you, live peaceably with all men.

 

(Romans 12:19)  Dearly beloved, avenge not yourselves, but rather give place unto wrath: for it is written, Vengeance is mine; I will repay, saith the Lord.

 

(Romans 12:20)  Therefore if thine enemy hunger, feed him; if he thirst, give him drink: for in so doing thou shalt heap coals of fire on his head.

 

(Romans 12:21)  Be not overcome of evil, but overcome evil with good.

 

The passages in this teaching above are there to show our need of a savior. As it is written God did love the world enough to send His only begotten Son- Jesus to die for our sins on the cross though He was nearly stoned in the gospel of John on two occasions. Jesus makes powerful points in these chapters about how He is indeed the one to take away the sins and also bring everlasting (eternal ) Life to all to all those who believe in Him. This was all done so the sins of man, which had separated man from God could be atoned for, which Jesus did by dying o0n the cross, and the love relationship with God then is thus restored. There is nothing like a love relationship with God at all, nothing can even come remotely close to it. I am now including a prayer which you can pray and then invite Jesus in your heart to begin this wonderful relationship to which nothing can compare. Please pray this prayer with me now.

Dear God in heaven, I come to you in the name of Jesus. I acknowledge to You that I am a sinner, and I am sorry for my sins and the life that I have lived; I need your forgiveness. I believe that your only begotten Son Jesus Christ shed His precious blood on the cross at Calvary and died for my sins, and I am now willing to turn from my sin. You said in Your Holy Word, Romans 10:9 that if we confess Jesus as our Lord and believe in our hearts that God raised Jesus from the dead, we will be saved. Right now I confess Jesus as the Lord of my soul. With my heart, I believe that God raised Jesus from the dead. This very moment I accept Jesus Christ as my own personal Savior and according to His Word, right now I am saved. Thank you Jesus for your unlimited grace which has saved me from my sins. I thank you Jesus that your grace never leads to license, but rather it always leads to repentance. Therefore Lord Jesus transform my life so that I may bring glory and honor to you alone and not to myself. Thank you Jesus for dying for me and giving me eternal life.

Amen.

 

God bless you and yours