Acts 28:28

Be advised, therefore, that God's salvation has been sent to the Gentiles, and they will listen!"

Study Bible

Be advised, therefore
This phrase serves as a solemn declaration and a turning point in the narrative. The Greek word for "be advised" is "γνωστὸν" (gnōston), which implies making something known or clear. Paul is addressing his audience with authority, urging them to understand the gravity of the message. The use of "therefore" (οὖν, oun) connects this statement to the preceding discourse, emphasizing the logical conclusion of Paul's argument. Historically, this reflects Paul's consistent pattern of first presenting the Gospel to the Jews and then turning to the Gentiles when faced with rejection.

that God’s salvation
The term "salvation" (σωτηρία, sōtēria) is central to Christian theology, denoting deliverance from sin and its consequences through Jesus Christ. The phrase "God’s salvation" underscores the divine origin and initiative of this deliverance. It is not a human invention but a gift from God, rooted in His love and mercy. This salvation was prophesied in the Old Testament and fulfilled in the New Testament through the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus.

has been sent
The Greek verb "ἀπεστάλη" (apestalē) is in the perfect tense, indicating a completed action with ongoing effects. This suggests that the sending of salvation to the Gentiles is a definitive act of God with lasting implications. The use of "sent" echoes the mission of Jesus and the apostles, who were commissioned to spread the Gospel to all nations. It highlights the active role of God in the unfolding of His redemptive plan.

to the Gentiles
The term "Gentiles" (ἔθνη, ethnē) refers to all nations or peoples outside of the Jewish community. This marks a significant shift in the early Christian mission, as the Gospel is now explicitly extended beyond the boundaries of Israel. Historically, this reflects the fulfillment of God's promise to Abraham that all nations would be blessed through his seed (Genesis 12:3). It also aligns with Jesus' Great Commission to make disciples of all nations (Matthew 28:19).

and they will listen
The assurance that "they will listen" (ἀκούσονται, akousontai) is both prophetic and hopeful. The future tense indicates a certainty that the Gentiles will receive and respond to the message of salvation. This contrasts with the rejection Paul often faced from his fellow Jews. Theologically, it underscores the inclusivity of the Gospel and God's desire for all people to come to repentance and faith. It also reflects the historical reality of the early church's growth among Gentile communities, as seen in the Acts of the Apostles and the epistles of Paul.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Paul the Apostle
A key figure in the early Christian church, Paul is the speaker in this verse. He is addressing the Jewish leaders in Rome after they have shown resistance to the message of the Gospel.

2. Rome
The setting of this passage, Rome was the center of the Roman Empire and a significant location for the spread of Christianity. Paul is under house arrest here, yet continues his ministry.

3. Jewish Leaders
The audience to whom Paul is speaking. They represent the Jewish community in Rome, some of whom were skeptical or resistant to the message of Jesus as the Messiah.

4. Gentiles
Non-Jewish people who are being highlighted as recipients of the Gospel. This marks a significant shift in the early Christian mission, emphasizing the universal nature of God's salvation.

5. God’s Salvation
Refers to the message of the Gospel and the salvation offered through Jesus Christ. This salvation is now being explicitly extended to the Gentiles.

Teaching Points

The Universality of the Gospel
The message of salvation through Jesus Christ is for all people, regardless of ethnic or cultural background. This universality is a core tenet of Christian faith and mission.

God’s Sovereign Plan
Despite human resistance, God's plan for salvation will prevail. The inclusion of the Gentiles demonstrates God's sovereignty and the unfolding of His redemptive plan.

Listening and Responding to God’s Word
The phrase "they will listen" highlights the importance of being receptive to God's message. Believers are called to have open hearts and minds to the Gospel.

The Role of the Church in Mission
The church is tasked with continuing the mission to reach all nations with the Gospel, following the example set by Paul and the early apostles.

Perseverance in Ministry
Paul’s example of perseverance, even under house arrest, encourages believers to remain steadfast in sharing the Gospel, regardless of circumstances.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the inclusion of the Gentiles in Acts 28:28 reflect the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies?

2. In what ways can the church today ensure that the Gospel message is accessible to all people, regardless of their background?

3. How does Paul’s perseverance in ministry, despite his circumstances, inspire you in your own faith journey?

4. What are some practical ways you can be more receptive to God’s Word in your daily life?

5. How can understanding the universality of the Gospel impact your interactions with people from different cultures and backgrounds?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Isaiah 49:6
This Old Testament prophecy speaks of the Messiah being a light to the Gentiles, which aligns with the message in Acts 28:28 about the Gospel reaching beyond the Jewish people.

Romans 11:11-12
Paul discusses the role of Israel and the Gentiles in God's salvation plan, explaining how the rejection by some Jews has led to the inclusion of the Gentiles.

Matthew 28:19-20
The Great Commission given by Jesus to make disciples of all nations, which underscores the mission to the Gentiles as seen in Acts 28:28.