WEBVTT 00:00:00.000 --> 00:00:06.620 We can read again from verse 30 and also reading verse 31. 00:00:06.620 --> 00:00:12.160 So that's the last two verses in the book of Acts. Acts chapter 28 verses 30 and 31. 00:00:12.160 --> 00:00:23.120 He, Paul, lived there two whole years at his own expense and welcomed all who came to him, 00:00:23.800 --> 00:00:29.359 proclaiming the kingdom of God and teaching about the Lord Jesus Christ with all boldness 00:00:29.359 --> 00:00:31.240 and without hindrance. 00:00:33.700 --> 00:00:38.420 We've come here, as I've noted in our reading, and just now as well, to the end of the book 00:00:38.420 --> 00:00:42.260 of Acts, the last chapter, and in fact, the last two verses. 00:00:42.700 --> 00:00:48.939 And it brings us, of course, to the end of this book that has covered for us an exciting 00:00:48.939 --> 00:00:57.280 journey, a journey in which we have seen different activities of the early Christian church engaged 00:00:57.280 --> 00:01:04.439 in its ministry and it's engaged, too, in the vibrancy of its life, recorded for us here 00:01:04.439 --> 00:01:05.780 in the Word of God. 00:01:05.780 --> 00:01:12.140 And it begins at the beginning of the book of Acts in chapter 1 with the ascension of 00:01:12.140 --> 00:01:15.560 our Lord, that the Lord is taken up into heaven. 00:01:16.420 --> 00:01:21.280 And then, of course, we have different activities of the church, beginning, of course, with the 00:01:21.280 --> 00:01:28.060 day of Pentecost and therein the preaching of Peter as well and the gathering of many people 00:01:28.060 --> 00:01:29.219 into the church. 00:01:29.219 --> 00:01:36.879 The significant act of the conversion of Paul is recorded early in the book of Acts. 00:01:37.579 --> 00:01:43.879 We follow therein the life of the early Christian church and we see a great deal of the book 00:01:43.879 --> 00:01:50.280 of Acts taken up with the missionary journeys of the apostle Paul and these journeys that he 00:01:50.280 --> 00:01:55.840 engages in and the movement of the gospel in that manner and in that way. 00:01:55.840 --> 00:02:03.760 We follow different people and different places and we engage ourselves there, focusing our 00:02:03.760 --> 00:02:11.840 attention on the main theme of this book, the furtherance of the gospel and the taking of that 00:02:11.840 --> 00:02:18.800 gospel under the activity of the Great Commission to the peoples and the nations of the world. 00:02:18.800 --> 00:02:25.960 The narrative of the book of Acts is, of course, fast-paced and it moves quickly through all of 00:02:25.960 --> 00:02:33.040 these different activities to bring us therein to the end where we find Paul here imprisoned in 00:02:33.040 --> 00:02:33.400 Rome. 00:02:34.400 --> 00:02:40.360 And yet everything throughout the book of Acts is all about the proclamation of the gospel. 00:02:40.360 --> 00:02:48.300 And so we have here in the closing words in verse 31, proclaiming the kingdom of God and teaching 00:02:48.300 --> 00:02:50.700 about the Lord Jesus Christ. 00:02:51.520 --> 00:02:56.560 When we come to the end of the book of Acts, we come to the end of not just the book of Acts, 00:02:56.560 --> 00:03:01.740 but we understand that this is a two-part work of Luke. 00:03:01.740 --> 00:03:10.500 Luke accompanies the book of, and precedes really, the book of Acts. 00:03:10.500 --> 00:03:16.400 And we find for ourselves at the beginning of the book of Acts that there is there that introduction 00:03:16.400 --> 00:03:20.320 by Luke, that he is here compiling a narrative. 00:03:21.480 --> 00:03:26.960 And he says that he's given an orderly account, most excellent Theophilus. 00:03:26.960 --> 00:03:32.280 And in the same manner, he introduces the book of Acts like that as well. 00:03:32.420 --> 00:03:37.379 He says in the first book of Theophilus, he began to teach about the things that Jesus 00:03:37.379 --> 00:03:38.780 had done and taught. 00:03:39.120 --> 00:03:43.620 And so now he follows with these words and with these chapters. 00:03:44.240 --> 00:03:49.159 And so chapter 28 of the book of Acts closes both books. 00:03:50.140 --> 00:03:54.920 And for us, it maybe seems a little unusual that it closes like this. 00:03:54.919 --> 00:03:57.659 It seems rather abrupt. 00:03:58.519 --> 00:04:04.159 An abrupt end to this book, an abrupt end if we read the two books together, one after another, 00:04:04.419 --> 00:04:06.039 and leaves us with many questions. 00:04:07.019 --> 00:04:11.839 Here is Paul in Rome, and he is here because he wants to bring his kiss to Caesar. 00:04:12.099 --> 00:04:17.399 He has appealed to Caesar, but we don't here find the interview with Caesar. 00:04:18.219 --> 00:04:19.899 And we wonder what happened. 00:04:20.680 --> 00:04:22.079 What happened to Paul? 00:04:22.779 --> 00:04:24.180 What happened to Caesar? 00:04:24.920 --> 00:04:26.780 What happened next? 00:04:28.220 --> 00:04:33.800 But if the focus of our attention is what Luke has conveyed to us, that he is given an orderly 00:04:33.800 --> 00:04:39.000 account of the gospel, then we're brought to the end of this book not to ask questions 00:04:39.000 --> 00:04:42.600 about the book, but to ask questions of ourselves. 00:04:42.600 --> 00:04:50.180 To ask questions of our engagement in this same task. 00:04:50.180 --> 00:04:51.180 Because the church has given us. 00:04:51.180 --> 00:05:00.900 Because the church has given this great responsibility to continue this work, to continue this activity. 00:05:00.899 --> 00:05:04.979 And we engage in it corporately as a church. 00:05:05.779 --> 00:05:08.500 We engage in it individually as well. 00:05:09.699 --> 00:05:14.659 That each one of us, you and I, each one of us have a part to play here. 00:05:14.660 --> 00:05:17.880 That we are all to be engaged. 00:05:17.880 --> 00:05:20.720 We are all to be supportive. 00:05:20.720 --> 00:05:25.700 And we have to ask ourselves, what is our engagement? 00:05:27.040 --> 00:05:28.940 Locally in the cause of Christ? 00:05:30.000 --> 00:05:32.040 Locally in the furtherance of the gospel? 00:05:32.040 --> 00:05:38.840 Or even further away, as we've just sung together in Psalm 67, let the peoples praise you. 00:05:40.060 --> 00:05:43.240 There is a church throughout the world that needs our support as well. 00:05:44.280 --> 00:05:46.820 And we can support in many different ways. 00:05:46.939 --> 00:05:48.100 We just pray together. 00:05:48.600 --> 00:05:52.379 And part of that prayer was what Jesus called us to pray for. 00:05:53.379 --> 00:05:56.879 To pray that the fields are white with harvest. 00:05:56.879 --> 00:05:59.560 That the Lord would send the workers. 00:06:01.480 --> 00:06:02.639 Where are the workers? 00:06:04.879 --> 00:06:06.420 Where are the workers today? 00:06:07.899 --> 00:06:09.459 Where is the church praying? 00:06:10.439 --> 00:06:12.480 That the fields are white with harvest. 00:06:13.399 --> 00:06:15.459 And not just in our own local situation. 00:06:16.180 --> 00:06:17.360 But throughout the world. 00:06:18.060 --> 00:06:20.920 We live in a world that needs the preaching of the gospel. 00:06:21.879 --> 00:06:25.199 We live in a world that needs the preacher of the gospel. 00:06:25.199 --> 00:06:28.219 And we're called to pray. 00:06:29.399 --> 00:06:30.360 And to support. 00:06:31.379 --> 00:06:32.279 And to engage. 00:06:33.379 --> 00:06:37.560 And here, for a few moments, we're going to consider Paul in Rome. 00:06:38.159 --> 00:06:41.099 And how the book of Acts ends here. 00:06:41.779 --> 00:06:47.240 I want to note, first of all, the arrival of the apostle in verse 14. 00:06:47.759 --> 00:06:50.180 It speaks here of his journey in verse 14. 00:06:50.620 --> 00:06:53.539 We found the brothers and so we came to Rome. 00:06:53.540 --> 00:06:57.620 Here is Paul arriving in that great city. 00:06:58.300 --> 00:07:00.400 He comes finally to Rome. 00:07:00.980 --> 00:07:04.379 It is the longing and anticipation of his heart for a long time. 00:07:04.920 --> 00:07:08.480 And it is the climax, really, of the chapters that precede this. 00:07:09.020 --> 00:07:11.600 That begin with his arrest in Jerusalem. 00:07:12.240 --> 00:07:16.660 And then includes all the different hearings that he was engaged in. 00:07:16.660 --> 00:07:19.600 Between Roman authorities. 00:07:20.300 --> 00:07:22.000 Between all the different people. 00:07:22.700 --> 00:07:24.880 Who he gave an answer and account to. 00:07:25.540 --> 00:07:28.120 It included his journey to Rome as a prisoner. 00:07:28.560 --> 00:07:33.560 It even included, at chapter 27, a shipwreck that he was involved in. 00:07:34.120 --> 00:07:36.600 It included all the plots against his life. 00:07:36.920 --> 00:07:39.840 It included the fact that he was imprisoned. 00:07:40.240 --> 00:07:42.379 That he himself was bound. 00:07:42.379 --> 00:07:44.699 And now he comes here. 00:07:45.719 --> 00:07:46.240 Finally. 00:07:47.199 --> 00:07:47.699 To Rome. 00:07:48.420 --> 00:07:50.980 With the long-held desire he had. 00:07:51.740 --> 00:07:54.199 And the promise that God had given to him. 00:07:54.740 --> 00:07:57.459 The promise is repeated in chapter 27. 00:07:57.939 --> 00:08:01.920 We find it there as he records in verses 21 to 26. 00:08:02.279 --> 00:08:06.379 He tells them there that God has said to him that he is going to go to Rome. 00:08:06.379 --> 00:08:10.639 And this is part of the promise he was given in Acts chapter 23. 00:08:11.199 --> 00:08:13.879 And he has long held this desire. 00:08:14.379 --> 00:08:16.300 And long held this promise of God. 00:08:16.680 --> 00:08:21.259 That he will stand in Rome and proclaim the gospel to Caesar. 00:08:22.420 --> 00:08:23.600 And here he is now. 00:08:23.879 --> 00:08:24.939 In verse 14. 00:08:25.659 --> 00:08:26.600 Arriving in Rome. 00:08:27.360 --> 00:08:30.699 And he arrives in Rome in its great day. 00:08:31.560 --> 00:08:33.200 If you go to Rome today. 00:08:33.840 --> 00:08:35.659 You meet with a very beautiful city. 00:08:36.519 --> 00:08:37.699 It's full of history. 00:08:38.219 --> 00:08:38.799 And culture. 00:08:39.399 --> 00:08:40.919 There are many things to see. 00:08:41.819 --> 00:08:43.319 But the Rome of this day. 00:08:44.179 --> 00:08:45.959 Was at its flourishing. 00:08:46.939 --> 00:08:48.899 Where it gained its reputation. 00:08:49.919 --> 00:08:52.000 Where it was the ancient center. 00:08:52.659 --> 00:08:54.379 Of the whole empire. 00:08:55.039 --> 00:08:56.039 And the known world. 00:08:56.620 --> 00:08:58.240 It was the heart of that empire. 00:08:58.819 --> 00:09:00.539 It was the seat of Caesar. 00:09:01.339 --> 00:09:04.100 The Caesar here is none other than Nero. 00:09:04.100 --> 00:09:06.360 Who was infamous in history. 00:09:06.360 --> 00:09:08.700 And who was brutal in his behavior. 00:09:09.060 --> 00:09:12.300 But this is prior to that awful persecution. 00:09:12.620 --> 00:09:13.860 That he engaged in. 00:09:14.200 --> 00:09:15.680 What Paul is coming to. 00:09:16.320 --> 00:09:18.200 Is the center of the power of the world. 00:09:18.940 --> 00:09:20.759 The center of influence. 00:09:21.440 --> 00:09:23.080 The center of the empire. 00:09:23.960 --> 00:09:25.120 The very heart. 00:09:25.940 --> 00:09:27.100 Of the known world. 00:09:27.100 --> 00:09:29.100 And he has spent his time. 00:09:29.100 --> 00:09:30.040 In missionary journeys. 00:09:30.040 --> 00:09:31.500 Around the Mediterranean. 00:09:32.379 --> 00:09:33.659 And everywhere he has gone. 00:09:34.279 --> 00:09:36.139 The influence of Rome is known. 00:09:36.740 --> 00:09:38.460 The power and authority of Rome. 00:09:39.060 --> 00:09:40.620 And now he comes to Rome. 00:09:40.920 --> 00:09:42.200 In this moment. 00:09:42.360 --> 00:09:43.360 And in this place. 00:09:43.920 --> 00:09:44.940 A busy city. 00:09:45.560 --> 00:09:47.159 An influential city. 00:09:47.420 --> 00:09:48.659 An affluent city. 00:09:49.379 --> 00:09:50.540 A powerful city. 00:09:50.539 --> 00:09:52.819 The population in Rome. 00:09:52.819 --> 00:09:54.139 It's estimated that this time. 00:09:54.259 --> 00:09:55.059 Would be somewhere between. 00:09:55.419 --> 00:09:56.980 One to two million people. 00:09:57.620 --> 00:09:59.480 And that's a huge population. 00:09:59.919 --> 00:10:01.279 In the ancient world. 00:10:02.339 --> 00:10:04.500 And this is where people wanted to be. 00:10:05.480 --> 00:10:07.439 It became overcrowded. 00:10:08.139 --> 00:10:09.939 The affluent of the city. 00:10:10.179 --> 00:10:10.879 Were well off. 00:10:10.959 --> 00:10:11.679 And comfortable. 00:10:12.459 --> 00:10:13.679 But most of the people. 00:10:13.860 --> 00:10:14.639 Were in poverty. 00:10:15.740 --> 00:10:16.959 The city was known too. 00:10:16.960 --> 00:10:18.960 Because of all the different vices. 00:10:19.860 --> 00:10:21.560 That were there in Rome. 00:10:22.639 --> 00:10:24.340 Paul arrives here in Rome. 00:10:25.440 --> 00:10:26.480 Under arrest. 00:10:27.540 --> 00:10:28.840 He is the prisoner. 00:10:29.900 --> 00:10:30.660 And the apostle. 00:10:31.780 --> 00:10:33.379 He has come here under arrest. 00:10:33.379 --> 00:10:35.540 After the riot in Jerusalem. 00:10:36.540 --> 00:10:37.840 The soldiers arrested him. 00:10:38.019 --> 00:10:38.879 Took him into custody. 00:10:39.220 --> 00:10:40.120 For his safety. 00:10:40.300 --> 00:10:41.600 And to interrogate him. 00:10:42.440 --> 00:10:43.700 And in chapter 25. 00:10:43.700 --> 00:10:45.440 We find him making an appeal. 00:10:45.440 --> 00:10:48.340 He says he wants to make his appeal. 00:10:48.420 --> 00:10:49.400 As a Roman citizen. 00:10:49.600 --> 00:10:51.220 To be heard by Caesar. 00:10:52.460 --> 00:10:53.900 The one who is. 00:10:54.160 --> 00:10:55.740 The highest of the officials. 00:10:56.240 --> 00:10:57.360 Of the judiciary. 00:10:58.580 --> 00:11:00.420 He is tried by Felix. 00:11:00.760 --> 00:11:01.660 By Festus. 00:11:02.260 --> 00:11:04.040 He is even heard by Agrippa. 00:11:04.540 --> 00:11:06.280 But it's Rome he wants to go to. 00:11:06.560 --> 00:11:09.040 And it's Caesar he wants to stand before. 00:11:10.080 --> 00:11:11.920 Paul arrives in Rome. 00:11:12.820 --> 00:11:13.380 Secondly. 00:11:13.540 --> 00:11:14.940 He abides in Rome. 00:11:14.940 --> 00:11:17.940 We find this in our text in verse 30. 00:11:19.160 --> 00:11:20.380 Two whole years. 00:11:21.500 --> 00:11:22.360 He is there. 00:11:23.460 --> 00:11:25.400 And he has to make his own arrangements. 00:11:25.400 --> 00:11:27.700 As we find in verse 16. 00:11:28.640 --> 00:11:29.900 Paul was allowed to stay. 00:11:30.400 --> 00:11:31.720 By himself with the soldier. 00:11:31.720 --> 00:11:32.580 That guarded him. 00:11:32.980 --> 00:11:34.040 Verse 30 tells us. 00:11:34.340 --> 00:11:36.500 That he is staying there at his own expense. 00:11:36.880 --> 00:11:38.820 And welcomed all who came to him. 00:11:39.580 --> 00:11:40.480 And we find here. 00:11:40.580 --> 00:11:42.240 That there is a concession of Rome. 00:11:42.240 --> 00:11:46.460 That Paul is as it were under a kind of house arrest. 00:11:47.120 --> 00:11:49.019 He's able to have his own accommodation. 00:11:49.620 --> 00:11:50.919 But he always has a soldier. 00:11:51.340 --> 00:11:52.759 In which he himself. 00:11:53.120 --> 00:11:54.419 Is bound up with. 00:11:54.840 --> 00:11:55.580 And chained to. 00:11:56.100 --> 00:11:57.940 He is able to receive visitors. 00:11:58.759 --> 00:11:59.919 And there are many visitors. 00:12:00.460 --> 00:12:02.080 Probably the house wouldn't hold the visitors. 00:12:02.180 --> 00:12:03.080 But outside the house. 00:12:03.519 --> 00:12:05.299 He could engage with the people. 00:12:05.299 --> 00:12:07.000 Who came to see him. 00:12:07.059 --> 00:12:07.919 And to speak with him. 00:12:08.859 --> 00:12:09.759 And he is here. 00:12:10.159 --> 00:12:11.519 Under concession from Rome. 00:12:11.579 --> 00:12:12.599 Because the charges. 00:12:13.479 --> 00:12:15.699 Are felt to be non-threatening to Rome. 00:12:16.399 --> 00:12:17.279 And the case. 00:12:17.479 --> 00:12:18.740 Has no real urgency. 00:12:19.319 --> 00:12:20.679 Two whole years. 00:12:21.359 --> 00:12:22.919 He is waiting there. 00:12:23.919 --> 00:12:24.939 He comes himself. 00:12:25.019 --> 00:12:26.479 Accompanied by the letters. 00:12:27.159 --> 00:12:27.939 And the report. 00:12:28.299 --> 00:12:29.579 Of his charge. 00:12:30.259 --> 00:12:31.400 Festus speaks of. 00:12:31.700 --> 00:12:32.740 Writing the report. 00:12:32.879 --> 00:12:33.340 And the letter. 00:12:33.800 --> 00:12:34.740 In chapter 25. 00:12:34.840 --> 00:12:36.040 And chapter 26. 00:12:36.680 --> 00:12:38.500 And also there is a good report. 00:12:38.600 --> 00:12:39.160 Given from. 00:12:39.700 --> 00:12:41.300 Julius in chapter 27. 00:12:41.440 --> 00:12:42.200 That would also. 00:12:42.700 --> 00:12:43.960 Accompany Paul. 00:12:44.400 --> 00:12:45.020 He is here. 00:12:45.360 --> 00:12:46.040 As a prisoner. 00:12:46.960 --> 00:12:48.080 In this accommodation. 00:12:48.800 --> 00:12:50.040 That he has arranged himself. 00:12:50.639 --> 00:12:51.680 With his charges. 00:12:52.300 --> 00:12:53.720 And with his chains. 00:12:54.420 --> 00:12:55.800 And he is here in verse 30. 00:12:55.800 --> 00:12:57.640 At his own expense. 00:12:57.639 --> 00:13:00.199 Now some people think that. 00:13:00.659 --> 00:13:02.220 It is because he was a tent maker. 00:13:02.960 --> 00:13:04.379 And we have in Acts chapter 18. 00:13:04.500 --> 00:13:06.220 That he engages in this activity. 00:13:06.980 --> 00:13:08.399 In 1 Corinthians chapter 4. 00:13:08.480 --> 00:13:10.519 He speaks of working with his own hands. 00:13:11.000 --> 00:13:13.019 So that he is not a burden to the church. 00:13:13.840 --> 00:13:14.740 So some people think. 00:13:14.819 --> 00:13:15.179 Well maybe. 00:13:15.819 --> 00:13:17.220 He was making tents. 00:13:17.980 --> 00:13:19.519 But this is highly unlikely. 00:13:20.639 --> 00:13:21.919 Not least because. 00:13:21.919 --> 00:13:23.200 He was chained up. 00:13:23.879 --> 00:13:25.220 To the Roman guard. 00:13:25.220 --> 00:13:25.259 God. 00:13:26.279 --> 00:13:27.639 And he speaks of this. 00:13:27.740 --> 00:13:28.320 In Ephesians. 00:13:28.540 --> 00:13:30.060 And in Colossians as well. 00:13:30.779 --> 00:13:31.460 Most likely. 00:13:31.820 --> 00:13:33.139 He is paying rent. 00:13:33.680 --> 00:13:35.100 Through a couple of different. 00:13:35.460 --> 00:13:36.060 Socios. 00:13:36.920 --> 00:13:37.660 One would be. 00:13:37.800 --> 00:13:39.019 Whatever financial resources. 00:13:39.019 --> 00:13:39.860 He had himself. 00:13:40.920 --> 00:13:41.820 He would use them. 00:13:41.940 --> 00:13:42.899 For the good of the gospel. 00:13:43.740 --> 00:13:44.639 He would use them. 00:13:44.720 --> 00:13:46.160 For what he is engaged in here. 00:13:47.080 --> 00:13:48.680 Everything Paul is. 00:13:49.740 --> 00:13:51.220 Everything Paul has. 00:13:52.180 --> 00:13:53.300 Is for the gospel. 00:13:53.299 --> 00:13:56.839 He pours himself out. 00:13:57.959 --> 00:13:58.799 He holds. 00:13:59.120 --> 00:14:00.120 Nothing back. 00:14:01.000 --> 00:14:02.240 Because of the one. 00:14:02.359 --> 00:14:03.679 Who apprehended him. 00:14:04.599 --> 00:14:05.199 The one. 00:14:05.299 --> 00:14:06.740 Who changed his life. 00:14:07.620 --> 00:14:08.459 The one. 00:14:08.579 --> 00:14:09.819 Who gave him life. 00:14:10.519 --> 00:14:10.959 The one. 00:14:11.059 --> 00:14:12.059 Who gave himself. 00:14:12.419 --> 00:14:12.919 For Paul. 00:14:13.500 --> 00:14:14.299 Paul now. 00:14:14.639 --> 00:14:15.120 Responds. 00:14:15.620 --> 00:14:16.159 By giving. 00:14:16.339 --> 00:14:17.319 All that he has. 00:14:17.959 --> 00:14:19.939 Including his personal finance. 00:14:20.579 --> 00:14:21.059 Everything. 00:14:21.059 --> 00:14:23.159 For the furtherance of the gospel. 00:14:23.679 --> 00:14:24.119 Everything. 00:14:24.619 --> 00:14:25.179 For the glory. 00:14:25.419 --> 00:14:25.939 Of God. 00:14:27.039 --> 00:14:27.979 We are also conscious. 00:14:27.979 --> 00:14:29.079 Of another stream. 00:14:29.199 --> 00:14:29.739 That he has. 00:14:30.179 --> 00:14:31.419 Even in verse 14. 00:14:31.539 --> 00:14:32.099 We have there. 00:14:32.439 --> 00:14:33.519 Those who support him. 00:14:33.619 --> 00:14:34.739 Coming to accompany him. 00:14:35.000 --> 00:14:35.979 And we know that Paul. 00:14:36.079 --> 00:14:37.379 Has supporters. 00:14:37.599 --> 00:14:38.179 And we believe. 00:14:38.299 --> 00:14:39.299 That many of these supporters. 00:14:39.719 --> 00:14:40.659 Were cheerful. 00:14:41.219 --> 00:14:41.579 Givers. 00:14:42.719 --> 00:14:43.559 Who were willing. 00:14:43.559 --> 00:14:44.579 To contribute. 00:14:45.379 --> 00:14:46.079 And support. 00:14:46.179 --> 00:14:47.339 The ministry of Paul. 00:14:48.379 --> 00:14:49.079 And the ministry. 00:14:49.079 --> 00:14:49.779 Of the gospel. 00:14:49.779 --> 00:14:51.720 Who understood. 00:14:51.720 --> 00:14:52.879 That this was part. 00:14:52.879 --> 00:14:53.959 Of their Christian. 00:14:54.559 --> 00:14:55.159 Stewardship. 00:14:55.879 --> 00:14:56.839 Part of. 00:14:57.339 --> 00:14:58.059 What they did. 00:14:59.139 --> 00:15:00.600 Of all the resources. 00:15:00.600 --> 00:15:01.539 And finances. 00:15:01.539 --> 00:15:02.659 That they had themselves. 00:15:03.439 --> 00:15:04.480 They recognized. 00:15:04.480 --> 00:15:05.519 That they were all. 00:15:05.699 --> 00:15:06.500 Given by God. 00:15:07.480 --> 00:15:08.480 And that they had. 00:15:08.579 --> 00:15:09.259 A responsibility. 00:15:09.259 --> 00:15:10.279 As stewards. 00:15:10.980 --> 00:15:12.299 And a responsibility. 00:15:12.299 --> 00:15:13.779 To the gospel. 00:15:14.259 --> 00:15:15.959 And for the furtherance. 00:15:16.259 --> 00:15:17.339 Of the gospel. 00:15:17.340 --> 00:15:19.519 When Paul. 00:15:20.220 --> 00:15:20.639 Commends. 00:15:20.639 --> 00:15:21.519 Christian giving. 00:15:21.519 --> 00:15:22.500 In 2nd Corinthians. 00:15:22.500 --> 00:15:23.399 Chapter 9. 00:15:24.100 --> 00:15:25.019 He speaks of. 00:15:25.180 --> 00:15:26.120 The heart being moved. 00:15:26.240 --> 00:15:26.899 By the gospel. 00:15:28.340 --> 00:15:29.040 He speaks of. 00:15:29.160 --> 00:15:30.160 The cheerful giver. 00:15:31.660 --> 00:15:33.000 And as Paul. 00:15:33.160 --> 00:15:34.300 Uses this language. 00:15:34.720 --> 00:15:35.780 We find ourselves. 00:15:35.780 --> 00:15:37.180 In a very different world. 00:15:37.180 --> 00:15:38.040 That we're looking at. 00:15:38.080 --> 00:15:38.899 In a very different. 00:15:38.899 --> 00:15:40.100 Kind of congregation. 00:15:41.759 --> 00:15:43.220 Where the congregations. 00:15:43.660 --> 00:15:44.700 In the early. 00:15:44.700 --> 00:15:45.580 Christian church. 00:15:46.300 --> 00:15:46.620 Where. 00:15:46.840 --> 00:15:47.940 Of a large extent. 00:15:48.060 --> 00:15:49.180 People who were slaves. 00:15:49.180 --> 00:15:50.120 And servants. 00:15:51.540 --> 00:15:52.879 People who were poor. 00:15:54.580 --> 00:15:55.300 And yet. 00:15:55.379 --> 00:15:55.940 Here we have. 00:15:56.040 --> 00:15:57.200 Paul commending them. 00:15:57.660 --> 00:15:58.759 In 2nd Corinthians. 00:15:59.860 --> 00:16:00.920 Of their willingness. 00:16:01.680 --> 00:16:02.320 To give. 00:16:03.740 --> 00:16:05.020 They've been humbled. 00:16:05.580 --> 00:16:07.200 By the extravagance. 00:16:07.200 --> 00:16:07.800 Of grace. 00:16:09.800 --> 00:16:10.800 Their lives. 00:16:10.980 --> 00:16:11.780 Have been moved. 00:16:12.259 --> 00:16:13.040 By the mercy. 00:16:13.040 --> 00:16:13.660 Of God. 00:16:13.659 --> 00:16:15.659 And by the one. 00:16:15.659 --> 00:16:16.399 Who was rich. 00:16:16.959 --> 00:16:17.899 Who became poor. 00:16:17.899 --> 00:16:18.399 For them. 00:16:19.620 --> 00:16:20.559 And they gave. 00:16:20.740 --> 00:16:21.120 Willingly. 00:16:21.120 --> 00:16:21.839 To the cause. 00:16:21.839 --> 00:16:22.439 Of Christ. 00:16:23.319 --> 00:16:24.360 It's not under. 00:16:24.759 --> 00:16:25.199 Compulsion. 00:16:26.039 --> 00:16:26.980 They're not giving. 00:16:26.980 --> 00:16:27.579 Off their own. 00:16:27.860 --> 00:16:28.339 Finances. 00:16:28.339 --> 00:16:29.100 For the cause. 00:16:29.100 --> 00:16:29.679 Of Christ. 00:16:29.819 --> 00:16:30.919 Because they feel. 00:16:30.919 --> 00:16:31.639 That this is just. 00:16:31.639 --> 00:16:32.579 Something they have. 00:16:32.579 --> 00:16:33.039 To do. 00:16:33.039 --> 00:16:34.000 In some kind. 00:16:34.000 --> 00:16:35.100 Of grudging manner. 00:16:35.839 --> 00:16:36.899 Or counting. 00:16:37.100 --> 00:16:37.819 The percentage. 00:16:38.699 --> 00:16:39.740 With some kind. 00:16:39.740 --> 00:16:40.620 Of legalism. 00:16:40.980 --> 00:16:41.519 Does this. 00:16:41.740 --> 00:16:42.199 Fit in. 00:16:42.200 --> 00:16:43.700 Can I get away. 00:16:43.700 --> 00:16:44.440 With this. 00:16:46.759 --> 00:16:48.060 It's quite challenging. 00:16:48.060 --> 00:16:48.960 For you and I. 00:16:50.040 --> 00:16:50.680 That we're. 00:16:50.920 --> 00:16:51.780 Far better off. 00:16:51.840 --> 00:16:52.420 Than they were. 00:16:54.020 --> 00:16:54.820 In fact. 00:16:54.879 --> 00:16:55.920 We're far better off. 00:16:56.000 --> 00:16:56.800 Than the generations. 00:16:57.500 --> 00:16:58.400 Before us. 00:16:58.399 --> 00:17:01.159 Even a generation. 00:17:01.159 --> 00:17:01.919 That would have built. 00:17:01.919 --> 00:17:02.579 This church. 00:17:04.259 --> 00:17:05.740 We're far better off. 00:17:05.920 --> 00:17:06.440 Than they are. 00:17:06.539 --> 00:17:07.039 Financially. 00:17:08.259 --> 00:17:08.940 And yet. 00:17:09.039 --> 00:17:09.440 They gave. 00:17:09.619 --> 00:17:10.259 So willingly. 00:17:11.420 --> 00:17:12.319 And they gave. 00:17:12.440 --> 00:17:12.980 So much. 00:17:14.299 --> 00:17:15.500 And when we find. 00:17:15.619 --> 00:17:16.099 Somebody. 00:17:16.299 --> 00:17:17.299 Who is giving. 00:17:17.839 --> 00:17:18.279 Extravagantly. 00:17:18.279 --> 00:17:19.039 To the gospel. 00:17:19.180 --> 00:17:19.900 Do we not find. 00:17:19.960 --> 00:17:20.440 That they are being. 00:17:20.559 --> 00:17:21.119 Questioned. 00:17:21.119 --> 00:17:23.659 Why. 00:17:25.979 --> 00:17:27.159 If the heart of. 00:17:27.799 --> 00:17:28.579 The believer. 00:17:28.739 --> 00:17:29.319 Has been moved. 00:17:29.419 --> 00:17:30.039 By grace. 00:17:31.159 --> 00:17:32.299 The undeserved. 00:17:32.500 --> 00:17:33.419 Mercy of God. 00:17:34.379 --> 00:17:35.399 We find ourselves. 00:17:35.479 --> 00:17:36.459 At this time of year. 00:17:37.139 --> 00:17:37.699 Spending. 00:17:38.059 --> 00:17:38.579 Extravagantly. 00:17:38.579 --> 00:17:39.379 On other people. 00:17:41.079 --> 00:17:42.659 And it's quite challenging. 00:17:43.359 --> 00:17:44.659 Whether we are supporting. 00:17:44.659 --> 00:17:45.279 The gospel. 00:17:46.539 --> 00:17:47.799 And helping the poor. 00:17:47.799 --> 00:17:50.000 With that same sense. 00:17:50.000 --> 00:17:50.500 Of willingness. 00:17:50.500 --> 00:17:51.200 Of heart. 00:17:51.940 --> 00:17:53.279 With that same sense. 00:17:53.279 --> 00:17:53.740 Of love. 00:17:53.779 --> 00:17:54.339 And desire. 00:17:55.579 --> 00:17:56.859 And with a burden. 00:17:57.000 --> 00:17:57.659 For the lost. 00:17:59.099 --> 00:18:00.379 Let peoples. 00:18:00.659 --> 00:18:01.259 Praise you. 00:18:02.379 --> 00:18:03.579 Let the nations. 00:18:03.579 --> 00:18:04.180 Be glad. 00:18:05.299 --> 00:18:06.299 And let you. 00:18:06.419 --> 00:18:06.639 And I. 00:18:06.700 --> 00:18:07.720 Be part of this. 00:18:08.839 --> 00:18:10.500 Part of the sacrifice. 00:18:11.759 --> 00:18:12.559 Part of. 00:18:13.139 --> 00:18:14.399 The willing giver. 00:18:15.599 --> 00:18:17.119 Part of the stewardship. 00:18:17.119 --> 00:18:18.219 Of the resources. 00:18:18.219 --> 00:18:19.819 That God has given to us. 00:18:21.679 --> 00:18:22.239 Thirdly. 00:18:23.279 --> 00:18:24.379 Paul proclaims. 00:18:24.479 --> 00:18:24.979 The gospel. 00:18:25.579 --> 00:18:25.959 In Rome. 00:18:26.739 --> 00:18:27.719 In verse 17. 00:18:27.839 --> 00:18:28.519 We find there. 00:18:28.939 --> 00:18:29.599 Paul is there. 00:18:29.679 --> 00:18:30.699 For three days. 00:18:31.479 --> 00:18:32.259 And so he takes. 00:18:32.599 --> 00:18:33.239 Three days. 00:18:33.799 --> 00:18:34.659 After the weariness. 00:18:34.659 --> 00:18:35.479 Of the journey. 00:18:36.619 --> 00:18:37.879 And settling himself. 00:18:38.039 --> 00:18:38.299 There. 00:18:39.719 --> 00:18:40.799 Then he begins. 00:18:42.819 --> 00:18:43.739 And he takes. 00:18:43.819 --> 00:18:44.299 The initiative. 00:18:44.299 --> 00:18:46.980 He has declared. 00:18:46.980 --> 00:18:47.680 That he has come. 00:18:47.680 --> 00:18:48.099 To Rome. 00:18:48.139 --> 00:18:48.799 With the gospel. 00:18:49.839 --> 00:18:51.240 That this is his intention. 00:18:51.240 --> 00:18:52.579 To proclaim this gospel. 00:18:52.579 --> 00:18:54.000 And that he is taking. 00:18:54.000 --> 00:18:54.879 The initiative. 00:18:55.899 --> 00:18:56.539 And first of all. 00:18:56.619 --> 00:18:57.220 In verse 17. 00:18:57.399 --> 00:18:57.899 He gathers. 00:18:57.899 --> 00:18:58.659 The local leaders. 00:18:58.659 --> 00:18:59.299 Of the Jews. 00:18:59.960 --> 00:19:00.440 Representing. 00:19:00.519 --> 00:19:01.359 Somewhere in the region. 00:19:01.359 --> 00:19:02.839 Of 40 to 50 thousand. 00:19:03.079 --> 00:19:03.460 Jews. 00:19:03.740 --> 00:19:04.879 Who were in Rome. 00:19:05.339 --> 00:19:06.740 And he speaks to them. 00:19:06.960 --> 00:19:08.139 And he shares with them. 00:19:08.220 --> 00:19:09.180 In verse 23. 00:19:09.180 --> 00:19:11.200 He is declaring to them. 00:19:11.500 --> 00:19:12.840 That this is the Messiah. 00:19:12.980 --> 00:19:13.920 Messiah has come. 00:19:14.120 --> 00:19:14.460 Jesus. 00:19:14.720 --> 00:19:15.779 Has been proven. 00:19:16.080 --> 00:19:16.740 By Paul. 00:19:16.920 --> 00:19:17.799 As the Messiah. 00:19:18.600 --> 00:19:19.400 Here he is. 00:19:19.620 --> 00:19:20.360 Telling people. 00:19:20.720 --> 00:19:21.700 This good news. 00:19:22.039 --> 00:19:23.140 This is what Paul. 00:19:23.140 --> 00:19:23.980 Is busy with. 00:19:24.240 --> 00:19:25.560 The prisoner of Rome. 00:19:27.200 --> 00:19:27.759 Imprisoned. 00:19:27.759 --> 00:19:28.960 Under house arrest. 00:19:29.460 --> 00:19:30.660 Chained to the guard. 00:19:31.100 --> 00:19:32.340 Of the Roman emperor. 00:19:33.100 --> 00:19:34.340 And he is telling people. 00:19:34.600 --> 00:19:34.920 Come. 00:19:35.920 --> 00:19:36.740 Not in order. 00:19:36.740 --> 00:19:38.039 That I would prosecute. 00:19:38.160 --> 00:19:38.759 My case. 00:19:39.180 --> 00:19:40.220 And declare. 00:19:40.380 --> 00:19:40.960 My innocence. 00:19:42.180 --> 00:19:42.500 But I. 00:19:42.620 --> 00:19:43.660 That you would come here. 00:19:43.980 --> 00:19:44.740 And before you. 00:19:44.900 --> 00:19:45.700 I would make the case. 00:19:45.779 --> 00:19:46.320 For Christ. 00:19:47.259 --> 00:19:48.240 I would tell you. 00:19:48.440 --> 00:19:49.080 Of the Messiah. 00:19:50.420 --> 00:19:51.299 Here is Paul. 00:19:51.440 --> 00:19:52.900 Actively engaged. 00:19:53.060 --> 00:19:53.740 In the burden. 00:19:54.299 --> 00:19:55.820 Of sharing this gospel. 00:19:56.420 --> 00:19:58.019 It is everything to him. 00:19:58.400 --> 00:19:59.880 That he must tell people. 00:20:00.080 --> 00:20:00.680 About Jesus. 00:20:01.560 --> 00:20:02.480 He is not there. 00:20:02.620 --> 00:20:02.940 Sitting. 00:20:03.259 --> 00:20:04.560 In this confinement. 00:20:05.000 --> 00:20:05.680 Feeling sorry. 00:20:05.680 --> 00:20:06.360 For himself. 00:20:07.220 --> 00:20:08.180 Saying to himself. 00:20:08.180 --> 00:20:09.000 Woe is me. 00:20:09.180 --> 00:20:10.580 What has happened to me. 00:20:10.900 --> 00:20:11.600 How have people. 00:20:11.740 --> 00:20:12.320 Treated me. 00:20:12.539 --> 00:20:13.240 How unjust. 00:20:13.340 --> 00:20:13.860 This case. 00:20:14.100 --> 00:20:14.680 How terrible. 00:20:14.779 --> 00:20:15.519 The shipwreck. 00:20:16.039 --> 00:20:16.640 No Paul. 00:20:16.720 --> 00:20:17.600 Is saying here. 00:20:19.080 --> 00:20:19.880 I have come. 00:20:19.980 --> 00:20:20.860 To proclaim Jesus. 00:20:22.620 --> 00:20:24.080 God has taken me here. 00:20:25.200 --> 00:20:25.980 I am here. 00:20:26.060 --> 00:20:26.920 And I must tell. 00:20:27.160 --> 00:20:27.840 This message. 00:20:28.100 --> 00:20:29.039 I must share. 00:20:29.120 --> 00:20:29.700 This message. 00:20:29.960 --> 00:20:30.759 I am here. 00:20:30.860 --> 00:20:31.620 By a sovereign. 00:20:31.779 --> 00:20:32.580 Act of God. 00:20:32.740 --> 00:20:34.160 This is my providence. 00:20:35.120 --> 00:20:36.740 And this is what I must do. 00:20:37.460 --> 00:20:38.900 This is what God has. 00:20:39.299 --> 00:20:40.359 For him to do. 00:20:42.019 --> 00:20:43.339 The commentator. 00:20:43.660 --> 00:20:44.279 Howard Marshall. 00:20:44.279 --> 00:20:45.700 Says the fate of Paul. 00:20:46.259 --> 00:20:47.960 Is secondary to the gospel. 00:20:51.079 --> 00:20:52.640 How things would change. 00:20:53.579 --> 00:20:55.279 If we felt the same way as Paul. 00:20:57.680 --> 00:20:59.620 If we left our own fate secondary. 00:20:59.619 --> 00:21:03.039 If we stopped being scared. 00:21:04.679 --> 00:21:05.859 Stopped holding on. 00:21:07.259 --> 00:21:09.139 Stopped feeling sorry for ourselves. 00:21:10.399 --> 00:21:12.159 And if we just told people. 00:21:13.019 --> 00:21:14.359 Who Jesus is. 00:21:15.639 --> 00:21:17.259 And what he has done for us. 00:21:19.179 --> 00:21:20.819 The Jewish leaders are with him. 00:21:21.659 --> 00:21:22.239 All day. 00:21:22.240 --> 00:21:25.140 In verses 20 to 23. 00:21:25.380 --> 00:21:26.039 We read of. 00:21:26.599 --> 00:21:28.000 Their response to him. 00:21:28.539 --> 00:21:30.460 And how he testifies to them. 00:21:30.799 --> 00:21:32.000 And then in verse 24. 00:21:33.120 --> 00:21:34.099 Some were convinced. 00:21:35.039 --> 00:21:36.019 Others disbelieved. 00:21:36.720 --> 00:21:38.140 Our message divides. 00:21:39.620 --> 00:21:40.759 It is binary. 00:21:42.039 --> 00:21:42.900 Some believe. 00:21:43.420 --> 00:21:44.339 And some do not. 00:21:45.079 --> 00:21:46.019 And so Paul then. 00:21:46.099 --> 00:21:47.299 In verse 26 onward. 00:21:47.299 --> 00:21:47.839 He cites. 00:21:48.460 --> 00:21:49.619 From Isaiah. 00:21:50.259 --> 00:21:51.240 And that great. 00:21:51.359 --> 00:21:52.299 Wonderful scene. 00:21:52.379 --> 00:21:53.700 In Isaiah chapter 6. 00:21:54.180 --> 00:21:55.099 Where the prophet. 00:21:55.299 --> 00:21:56.740 There receives the vision. 00:21:57.619 --> 00:21:58.259 Of God. 00:21:58.359 --> 00:21:59.599 High and lifted up. 00:22:00.500 --> 00:22:02.000 The holiness of God. 00:22:02.079 --> 00:22:03.819 Declared by the angelic hosts. 00:22:04.859 --> 00:22:05.799 And then the prophet. 00:22:05.940 --> 00:22:07.079 Saying that he is undone. 00:22:08.039 --> 00:22:09.359 Then the call of the prophet. 00:22:09.480 --> 00:22:09.779 Coming. 00:22:10.379 --> 00:22:11.379 And it is accompanying. 00:22:11.680 --> 00:22:13.579 With the reality of this response. 00:22:13.839 --> 00:22:15.399 That the people would not listen. 00:22:15.400 --> 00:22:17.960 And they would not listen. 00:22:18.060 --> 00:22:19.080 Because they were unwilling. 00:22:19.220 --> 00:22:19.720 To repent. 00:22:20.100 --> 00:22:21.120 Jesus cites this. 00:22:21.280 --> 00:22:22.640 As part of his own ministry. 00:22:23.019 --> 00:22:24.400 And here Paul cites it. 00:22:25.300 --> 00:22:26.620 That here are people. 00:22:27.019 --> 00:22:27.780 Who knew the law. 00:22:27.860 --> 00:22:28.680 And the commandments. 00:22:29.320 --> 00:22:30.880 Recipients of the covenants. 00:22:31.380 --> 00:22:32.820 And they are unwilling. 00:22:34.220 --> 00:22:35.840 To receive the gospel. 00:22:35.960 --> 00:22:36.880 Of Jesus Christ. 00:22:37.980 --> 00:22:39.460 Because Paul is saying. 00:22:40.060 --> 00:22:41.300 They are unwilling to listen. 00:22:42.100 --> 00:22:43.820 They are unwilling to bend the knee. 00:22:43.819 --> 00:22:46.139 They are unwilling to repent. 00:22:49.720 --> 00:22:50.679 And I wonder. 00:22:50.799 --> 00:22:51.740 With some of you here. 00:22:53.559 --> 00:22:54.720 You have heard the gospel. 00:22:54.839 --> 00:22:55.480 Your whole life. 00:22:57.179 --> 00:22:58.159 You have heard about. 00:22:58.240 --> 00:22:59.480 The dramatic transformation. 00:22:59.480 --> 00:23:00.319 Of someone. 00:23:00.559 --> 00:23:01.799 Like the apostle Paul. 00:23:01.859 --> 00:23:02.960 On the road to Damascus. 00:23:03.139 --> 00:23:04.079 You have seen this. 00:23:04.159 --> 00:23:05.139 In the lives of people. 00:23:05.259 --> 00:23:05.639 You have known. 00:23:05.980 --> 00:23:07.059 Friends and family. 00:23:07.259 --> 00:23:08.220 Who have been converted. 00:23:08.359 --> 00:23:09.700 Who have come to follow Jesus. 00:23:09.700 --> 00:23:12.360 You have heard this gospel. 00:23:12.680 --> 00:23:13.200 Heralded. 00:23:13.519 --> 00:23:14.799 Time and time again. 00:23:15.140 --> 00:23:16.200 You have heard the commandments. 00:23:16.559 --> 00:23:17.759 You have heard the Lord's prayer. 00:23:18.000 --> 00:23:19.080 You know all these things. 00:23:19.160 --> 00:23:20.440 But you are still not a Christian. 00:23:21.319 --> 00:23:22.559 You are a little like Agrippa. 00:23:23.000 --> 00:23:24.819 When Paul challenges him. 00:23:27.819 --> 00:23:29.940 He declares that he is almost persuaded. 00:23:29.940 --> 00:23:34.700 And you wonder yourself. 00:23:34.820 --> 00:23:36.000 Why you are not a Christian. 00:23:37.000 --> 00:23:38.640 And the preacher wonders. 00:23:38.920 --> 00:23:40.279 Why you still don't believe. 00:23:42.160 --> 00:23:44.519 Is it because you are unwilling to repent? 00:23:46.400 --> 00:23:48.220 Unwilling to open your eyes. 00:23:48.340 --> 00:23:49.240 And open your ears. 00:23:50.700 --> 00:23:52.140 Unwilling to receive. 00:23:52.640 --> 00:23:53.480 The Messiah. 00:23:53.480 --> 00:23:56.420 When this happens. 00:23:57.380 --> 00:23:58.180 Paul carries on. 00:23:59.700 --> 00:24:01.279 And he speaks then. 00:24:02.279 --> 00:24:03.400 In verse 28. 00:24:04.279 --> 00:24:06.480 Of declaring this to the Gentiles too. 00:24:06.579 --> 00:24:07.380 He goes on. 00:24:08.039 --> 00:24:09.720 This is the pattern that is followed. 00:24:10.120 --> 00:24:11.440 If these people won't listen. 00:24:11.759 --> 00:24:14.240 We will take this gospel to the people who will listen. 00:24:14.579 --> 00:24:17.099 And this is part of the reason why Paul is here. 00:24:17.099 --> 00:24:19.480 He has come to the center of the world. 00:24:19.819 --> 00:24:20.700 To tell the world. 00:24:21.099 --> 00:24:22.339 This gospel is for them. 00:24:23.480 --> 00:24:26.160 This is more than just a local Jewish dispute. 00:24:27.099 --> 00:24:28.319 This is for them. 00:24:29.120 --> 00:24:31.680 The whole world needs to hear this gospel. 00:24:32.079 --> 00:24:33.900 And this is why Paul is in Rome. 00:24:34.099 --> 00:24:35.519 To tell the world. 00:24:35.759 --> 00:24:37.900 To tell the world at its very center. 00:24:38.200 --> 00:24:40.620 To tell the world's great powers. 00:24:41.059 --> 00:24:42.279 And great authorities. 00:24:42.680 --> 00:24:43.980 And great empires. 00:24:43.980 --> 00:24:45.799 That there is a Savior. 00:24:46.279 --> 00:24:47.559 Who is Lord of all. 00:24:47.960 --> 00:24:50.279 Whom we must bow the knee before. 00:24:51.039 --> 00:24:52.140 Who we must come. 00:24:52.360 --> 00:24:52.880 And repent. 00:24:52.880 --> 00:24:55.000 And lay hold of by faith. 00:24:56.280 --> 00:24:57.720 Paul's time in Rome. 00:24:58.440 --> 00:24:59.700 In his prison. 00:25:00.840 --> 00:25:02.300 Is a fruitful time. 00:25:04.460 --> 00:25:06.660 It's a fruitful time for the church. 00:25:07.560 --> 00:25:09.240 The church is encouraged. 00:25:10.360 --> 00:25:11.980 Here Paul writes Ephesians. 00:25:11.980 --> 00:25:12.980 Philippians. 00:25:12.980 --> 00:25:13.299 Philippians. 00:25:13.299 --> 00:25:13.980 And Philemon. 00:25:13.980 --> 00:25:19.400 Here Paul receives Onesimus. 00:25:19.940 --> 00:25:21.700 Who repents of his sin. 00:25:22.420 --> 00:25:23.620 And who serves Paul. 00:25:23.900 --> 00:25:25.460 And who serves the cause. 00:25:26.200 --> 00:25:28.299 Here the whole imperial guard. 00:25:28.720 --> 00:25:30.860 Hear about the gospel of Jesus Christ. 00:25:31.200 --> 00:25:34.819 This is Paul who is unwilling to miss a single opportunity. 00:25:35.940 --> 00:25:38.319 Here is this hardened Roman soldier. 00:25:38.319 --> 00:25:39.319 He has been in the church. 00:25:39.319 --> 00:25:41.859 Gone through different battle scenes. 00:25:42.240 --> 00:25:44.480 Been in conflicts around the empire. 00:25:44.980 --> 00:25:45.339 Chained. 00:25:45.480 --> 00:25:46.500 Taking their turns. 00:25:46.779 --> 00:25:47.859 Chained to Paul. 00:25:48.220 --> 00:25:49.039 Guarding him. 00:25:49.559 --> 00:25:50.639 Standing over him. 00:25:50.819 --> 00:25:51.519 Watching him. 00:25:51.980 --> 00:25:53.700 And Paul looks at these people. 00:25:54.099 --> 00:25:56.179 Every one of them coming one by one. 00:25:56.259 --> 00:25:56.599 And saying. 00:25:56.879 --> 00:25:57.559 A soul. 00:25:59.559 --> 00:26:01.819 A soul who needs to hear this message. 00:26:01.819 --> 00:26:04.319 They're chained up to me. 00:26:05.119 --> 00:26:06.480 Well they're going to have to listen. 00:26:08.139 --> 00:26:10.859 Paul doesn't sit there feeling sorry for himself. 00:26:11.639 --> 00:26:13.859 But he engages in something better. 00:26:15.339 --> 00:26:17.099 Telling precious souls. 00:26:18.079 --> 00:26:19.119 The precious truth. 00:26:20.099 --> 00:26:21.039 Of the kingdom. 00:26:22.119 --> 00:26:22.679 Of God. 00:26:24.079 --> 00:26:26.639 We come here to the end of the book of Acts. 00:26:27.359 --> 00:26:29.159 And we wonder what happened next. 00:26:29.160 --> 00:26:31.900 The book of Acts doesn't tell us. 00:26:33.000 --> 00:26:35.200 We can understand ourselves. 00:26:35.200 --> 00:26:37.160 As we take out information. 00:26:37.160 --> 00:26:38.580 From the rest of the New Testament. 00:26:38.779 --> 00:26:40.320 And what history tells us too. 00:26:40.400 --> 00:26:41.860 That Paul was probably released. 00:26:43.620 --> 00:26:45.720 And he would suffer a second imprisonment. 00:26:45.720 --> 00:26:47.000 From which there would be no release. 00:26:48.580 --> 00:26:50.400 And Nero would engage. 00:26:51.360 --> 00:26:52.800 In that awful persecution. 00:26:54.019 --> 00:26:55.840 Which would include the martyrdom. 00:26:56.000 --> 00:26:56.720 Of both Peter. 00:26:56.720 --> 00:26:58.980 And Paul. 00:27:01.120 --> 00:27:02.299 But for Paul. 00:27:04.539 --> 00:27:05.980 Everything is for Christ. 00:27:07.700 --> 00:27:11.640 He is imporing the entirety of his life out for Jesus. 00:27:13.980 --> 00:27:16.539 Because his heart is filled with gratitude. 00:27:18.799 --> 00:27:21.140 His heart is filled with thanksgiving. 00:27:21.140 --> 00:27:25.160 With the one who saved him. 00:27:26.100 --> 00:27:28.600 And the salvation he has experienced. 00:27:29.300 --> 00:27:30.600 And he is able to say. 00:27:30.900 --> 00:27:31.960 As he would record. 00:27:32.360 --> 00:27:33.720 In his final words. 00:27:33.800 --> 00:27:34.620 In 2 Timothy. 00:27:34.980 --> 00:27:35.920 And in chapter 2. 00:27:36.000 --> 00:27:36.640 In verse 9. 00:27:37.080 --> 00:27:38.440 He says there to Timothy. 00:27:39.020 --> 00:27:40.240 That he was suffering. 00:27:41.240 --> 00:27:43.060 Bound with the chains of a criminal. 00:27:45.180 --> 00:27:46.660 But the word of God. 00:27:47.920 --> 00:27:48.840 Is not bound. 00:27:48.839 --> 00:27:51.019 It's not bound. 00:27:52.019 --> 00:27:54.539 This gospel has to go out to the whole world. 00:27:56.059 --> 00:27:58.859 It has to go to the whole of our world too. 00:27:59.939 --> 00:28:02.759 All the different relationships and situations. 00:28:03.879 --> 00:28:05.240 We are involved in. 00:28:06.240 --> 00:28:07.339 And invested in. 00:28:08.159 --> 00:28:09.720 We have to take our place. 00:28:10.720 --> 00:28:12.759 To support the gospel work. 00:28:12.759 --> 00:28:15.180 To support the gospel. 00:28:16.140 --> 00:28:17.180 To tell people. 00:28:17.980 --> 00:28:19.680 To hear the call of the gospel. 00:28:20.460 --> 00:28:22.339 To engage in it. 00:28:23.180 --> 00:28:24.559 And to tell everyone. 00:28:25.279 --> 00:28:26.059 And anyone. 00:28:27.099 --> 00:28:28.579 What Christ has done. 00:28:29.339 --> 00:28:29.920 For us. 00:28:31.039 --> 00:28:32.799 May we share this message. 00:28:33.579 --> 00:28:34.940 By the grace of God. 00:28:35.900 --> 00:28:36.940 With boldness. 00:28:37.859 --> 00:28:38.440 And courage. 00:28:39.500 --> 00:28:40.319 To a needy world. 00:28:41.279 --> 00:28:41.519 Amen. 00:28:41.519 --> 00:28:42.559 Let's pray together. 00:28:45.119 --> 00:28:46.639 Gracious and most holy God. 00:28:46.720 --> 00:28:47.839 We give thanks to you. 00:28:47.940 --> 00:28:48.660 For your word. 00:28:48.740 --> 00:28:49.740 We give thanks to you. 00:28:49.799 --> 00:28:50.420 For the gospel. 00:28:51.139 --> 00:28:52.400 That brings salvation. 00:28:52.619 --> 00:28:53.359 Into souls. 00:28:53.920 --> 00:28:55.279 We pray that you would help us. 00:28:55.799 --> 00:28:56.920 To be bold with it. 00:28:56.960 --> 00:28:58.500 And to be supportive of it. 00:28:59.139 --> 00:29:00.799 Help us to support one another. 00:29:00.900 --> 00:29:01.660 In this as well. 00:29:02.160 --> 00:29:03.500 To encourage one another. 00:29:04.039 --> 00:29:05.879 And to be speaking our word of season. 00:29:05.879 --> 00:29:07.099 To those around us. 00:29:07.519 --> 00:29:08.319 Be near to us. 00:29:08.379 --> 00:29:08.779 We pray. 00:29:08.779 --> 00:29:10.480 And forgive us our sins. 00:29:10.619 --> 00:29:11.319 In Jesus name. 00:29:11.720 --> 00:29:12.019 Amen. 00:29:12.019 --> 00:29:12.119 Amen. 00:29:17.619 --> 00:29:18.920 We're going to sing again. 00:29:18.920 --> 00:29:19.859 To God's praise. 00:29:19.940 --> 00:29:21.379 On page 314. 00:29:22.500 --> 00:29:24.139 Where we have Psalm 72. 00:29:24.140 --> 00:29:31.320 We'll sing verses 17 to 19. 00:29:31.320 --> 00:29:32.400 Of Psalm 72. 00:29:34.460 --> 00:29:36.000 Afterward we'll have the benediction. 00:29:36.320 --> 00:29:37.960 And we'll close with the benediction. 00:29:38.120 --> 00:29:40.040 But if you could please allow me a moment. 00:29:40.200 --> 00:29:41.500 And I'll get to the front door. 00:29:41.900 --> 00:29:43.860 And be able to see some of you. 00:29:44.120 --> 00:29:45.080 As you exit. 00:29:45.079 --> 00:29:47.639 Psalm 72 verses 17 to 19. 00:29:47.639 --> 00:29:49.279 His name forever shall endure. 00:29:49.799 --> 00:29:51.079 Last like the sun it shall. 00:29:51.579 --> 00:29:52.919 Men shall be blessed in him. 00:29:53.359 --> 00:29:54.639 And blessed all nations. 00:29:55.240 --> 00:29:56.019 Shall him call. 00:29:56.500 --> 00:29:57.099 Verse 19. 00:29:57.199 --> 00:29:58.819 And blessed be his glorious name. 00:29:58.939 --> 00:29:59.819 To all eternity. 00:30:00.319 --> 00:30:02.059 The whole earth let his glory fill. 00:30:02.559 --> 00:30:03.000 Amen. 00:30:03.480 --> 00:30:04.259 So let it be. 00:30:04.359 --> 00:30:05.720 Let's sing then to God's praise. 00:30:05.819 --> 00:30:08.399 Psalm 72 verses 17 to 19. 00:30:08.400 --> 00:30:19.900 His name forever shall endure. 00:30:19.900 --> 00:30:27.300 Last like the sun it shall. 00:30:27.740 --> 00:30:34.900 Men shall be blessed in him. 00:30:34.900 --> 00:30:44.900 And blessed all nations shall involve. 00:30:44.900 --> 00:30:54.680 Now blessed be the Lord our God. 00:30:54.680 --> 00:31:00.680 The God of Israel. 00:31:00.680 --> 00:31:11.680 For he alone doth wondrous words. 00:31:11.680 --> 00:31:17.680 In glory that excel. 00:31:19.680 --> 00:31:28.680 And blessed be his glorious name. 00:31:28.680 --> 00:31:34.680 To all eternity. 00:31:34.680 --> 00:31:45.680 The whole earth let his glory fill. 00:31:46.960 --> 00:31:48.120 Amen. 00:31:49.240 --> 00:31:53.340 So let it be. 00:31:53.339 --> 00:31:57.379 Now may the God of peace. 00:31:57.699 --> 00:31:59.019 Who brought again from the dead. 00:31:59.099 --> 00:31:59.879 Our Lord Jesus. 00:32:00.059 --> 00:32:01.519 The great shepherd of the sheep. 00:32:02.000 --> 00:32:03.899 By the blood of the eternal covenant. 00:32:04.099 --> 00:32:04.619 Equip you. 00:32:05.099 --> 00:32:06.079 With everything good. 00:32:06.159 --> 00:32:07.279 That you may do his will. 00:32:07.980 --> 00:32:09.579 Working in us that which is pleasing. 00:32:09.720 --> 00:32:10.379 In his sight. 00:32:11.099 --> 00:32:12.099 Through Jesus Christ. 00:32:12.679 --> 00:32:14.279 To him be glory forever and ever. 00:32:14.819 --> 00:32:15.159 Amen. 00:32:15.159 --> 00:32:15.259 Amen. 00:32:15.259 --> 00:32:15.319 Amen. 00:32:23.339 --> 00:32:23.839 Amen. 00:32:23.839 --> 00:32:23.839 00:32:23.839 --> 00:32:23.839 00:32:23.839 --> 00:32:23.839 00:32:23.839 --> 00:32:23.839 00:32:23.839 --> 00:32:23.839 00:32:23.839 --> 00:32:23.839 00:32:23.839 --> 00:32:23.839 00:32:23.839 --> 00:32:23.839 00:32:23.839 --> 00:32:23.839 00:32:23.839 --> 00:32:23.839 00:32:23.839 --> 00:32:23.839 00:32:23.839 --> 00:32:23.839 00:32:23.839 --> 00:32:23.839 00:32:23.839 --> 00:32:23.839 00:32:23.839 --> 00:32:23.839 00:32:23.839 --> 00:32:23.839 00:32:23.839 --> 00:32:23.839 00:32:23.839 --> 00:32:23.839 00:32:23.839 --> 00:32:23.839 00:32:23.839 --> 00:32:23.839 00:32:23.839 --> 00:32:23.839 00:32:23.839 --> 00:32:23.839 00:32:23.839 --> 00:32:23.839 00:32:23.839 --> 00:32:23.839 00:32:23.839 --> 00:32:23.839 00:32:23.839 --> 00:32:23.839 00:32:23.839 --> 00:32:23.839 00:32:23.839 --> 00:32:23.839 00:32:23.839 --> 00:32:23.839 00:32:23.839 --> 00:32:23.839 00:32:23.839 --> 00:32:23.839 00:32:23.839 --> 00:32:23.839 00:32:23.839 --> 00:32:23.839 00:32:23.839 --> 00:32:23.839 00:32:23.839 --> 00:32:23.839 00:32:23.839 --> 00:32:23.839 00:32:23.839 --> 00:32:23.839 00:32:23.839 --> 00:32:23.839 00:32:23.839 --> 00:32:23.839 00:32:23.839 --> 00:32:23.839 00:32:23.839 --> 00:32:23.839 00:32:23.839 --> 00:32:23.839 00:32:23.839 --> 00:32:23.839 00:32:23.839 --> 00:32:23.839 00:32:23.839 --> 00:32:23.839 00:32:23.839 --> 00:32:23.839 00:32:23.839 --> 00:32:23.839 00:32:23.839 --> 00:32:23.839 00:32:23.839 --> 00:32:23.839 00:32:23.839 --> 00:32:23.839 00:32:23.839 --> 00:32:23.839 00:32:23.839 --> 00:32:53.819 Thank you.