Acts 28:16

When we arrived in Rome, Paul was permitted to stay by himself, with a soldier to guard him.

Study Bible

When we arrived in Rome
The phrase marks the culmination of Paul's long and arduous journey, which began with his arrest in Jerusalem and included a perilous sea voyage. The Greek word for "arrived" (παραγίνομαι, paraginomai) suggests a coming to a place with purpose. Rome, the heart of the Roman Empire, symbolizes the center of worldly power and influence. Paul's arrival here fulfills God's promise that he would testify in Rome (Acts 23:11). Historically, Rome was a bustling metropolis, a melting pot of cultures, and a strategic location for the spread of the Gospel. This moment signifies the Gospel's reach into the very core of the Gentile world, aligning with the Great Commission to spread the message to all nations.

Paul was permitted to stay by himself
The phrase indicates a level of favor and trust granted to Paul, despite his status as a prisoner. The Greek word for "permitted" (ἐπιτρέπω, epitrepō) implies a granting of freedom or allowance. This permission reflects the Roman practice of custodia libera, where a prisoner could live in a private residence under guard. It highlights God's providence in Paul's life, allowing him the freedom to continue his ministry even in chains. This arrangement provided Paul the opportunity to preach, teach, and write letters that would become part of the New Testament, demonstrating how God can use any circumstance for His purposes.

with a soldier to guard him
This phrase underscores the reality of Paul's imprisonment. The Greek word for "guard" (φυλάσσω, phylassō) means to keep watch or protect. The presence of a soldier signifies the Roman authority's recognition of Paul's importance and the potential threat they perceived in his message. Yet, it also illustrates the paradox of Paul's situation: though physically bound, he was spiritually free and continued to influence many. The soldier's presence also provided Paul with a unique audience, as he likely shared the Gospel with those assigned to guard him. This scenario exemplifies the Christian belief that God's word is not bound (2 Timothy 2:9), and His purposes prevail regardless of human constraints.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Paul
The apostle and central figure in this passage, who is under house arrest in Rome. His journey to Rome fulfills his long-standing desire to preach the Gospel there.

2. Rome
The capital of the Roman Empire, a significant location for the spread of Christianity. Paul's presence in Rome marks a pivotal moment in the early church's mission to reach the Gentiles.

3. Soldier
A Roman guard assigned to Paul. This reflects the Roman practice of allowing certain prisoners some freedom while ensuring they remain under surveillance.

4. Arrival in Rome
This event marks the culmination of Paul's journey, which began with his appeal to Caesar and included various trials and tribulations, including shipwreck.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty in Fulfillment of Promises
Despite the challenges and delays, God's promise to Paul that he would reach Rome is fulfilled. This teaches us to trust in God's timing and faithfulness.

Witness in Adversity
Paul's situation in Rome, though restrictive, becomes an opportunity for ministry. We can learn to use our circumstances, however limiting, as platforms for sharing the Gospel.

The Role of Secular Authorities
The Roman guard represents the secular authority that God uses to accomplish His purposes. This reminds us that God can work through any situation or authority to fulfill His plans.

Perseverance in Mission
Paul's determination to preach in Rome, despite his imprisonment, encourages us to remain steadfast in our mission, regardless of obstacles.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Paul's arrival in Rome demonstrate the fulfillment of God's promises, and how can this encourage us in our personal faith journey?

2. In what ways can we, like Paul, use our current circumstances to advance the Gospel, even if they seem restrictive?

3. How does the presence of the Roman soldier guarding Paul illustrate the relationship between God's sovereignty and human authority?

4. Reflect on a time when you faced obstacles in your mission or calling. How can Paul's perseverance inspire you to continue?

5. How do other scriptures, such as Philippians 1:12-14, enhance our understanding of Paul's attitude and actions during his imprisonment in Rome?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Acts 23:11
This verse connects to Acts 28:16 as it records the Lord's promise to Paul that he would testify in Rome, showing the fulfillment of God's word.

Philippians 1:12-14
Paul writes about his imprisonment in Rome, explaining how it has served to advance the Gospel, demonstrating his unwavering commitment to his mission.

2 Timothy 2:9
Paul speaks of being chained like a criminal, yet the word of God is not chained, highlighting the power of the Gospel despite physical limitations.