Paul in Rome: Preaching from Prison

Context & Setting

• Main Biblical Reference: Atos 28:16–31
• Historical Period: The early Roman Imperial era, during the expansion of the early church
• Geographic Location: Rome (Italy), with reference to Jewish communities in the city
• Key Characters: Paulo, Roman guards, Jewish leaders in Rome, visitors and hearers (Jews and Gentiles)

The Narrative

The Beginning:
After arriving in Rome, Paul is allowed to live by himself under guard, still a prisoner awaiting his case. Three days later, he calls together the local Jewish leaders to explain why he has been sent to Rome in chains. He insists he has done nothing against his people or the customs of the fathers, and that he is bound because of “the hope of Israel.”

The Middle:
The Jewish leaders reply that they have received no official accusations against Paul, but they want to hear his views, since the movement associated with Jesus is widely spoken against. On an appointed day, many come to Paul’s lodging, where he explains and testifies about the kingdom of God. From morning until evening he seeks to persuade them about Jesus, drawing from the Law of Moses and the Prophets. Some are convinced, while others refuse to believe, and disagreement divides the group.

The End:
As they depart, Paul quotes Isaiah to describe hardened hearing and spiritual blindness, then declares that God’s salvation has been sent to the Gentiles and that they will listen. Acts closes with Paul remaining two whole years in his rented quarters, welcoming all who come to him. Though in custody, he proclaims the kingdom of God and teaches about the Lord Jesus Christ “with all boldness and without hindrance.”

Theological Meaning

This ending of Acts highlights the unstoppable advance of God’s saving purpose: the gospel reaches the heart of the empire even while its messenger is in chains. Paul’s preaching centers on the kingdom of God and the fulfillment of Scripture in Jesus, presenting the Christian message as continuous with Israel’s hope rather than a rejection of it. The mixed response in Rome underscores a recurring theme in Acts: God’s word divides hearers, yet opposition does not cancel God’s mission. The final note—“without hindrance”—emphasizes divine sovereignty: human imprisonment cannot imprison the message of the risen Christ.

Historical & Cultural Insight

In the first century, certain non-capital defendants could be kept in custódia (guarded custody) while awaiting hearing, sometimes in a private residence rather than a public jail. Acts’ description of Paul living in “his own rented quarters” under guard fits known Roman practice and helps explain how he could receive visitors and teach publicly while still being a prisoner.

Key Memory Verse

“Permaneceu ali dois anos inteiros em sua própria casa, recebendo todos os que o visitavam.” — Atos 28:30