Acts 28:11-16

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Paul’s Arrival at Rome

11 After three months we put out to sea in a ship that had wintered in the island—it was an Alexandrian ship with the figurehead of the twin gods Castor and Pollux. 12 We put in at Syracuse and stayed there three days. 13 From there we set sail and arrived at Rhegium. The next day the south wind came up, and on the following day we reached Puteoli. 14 There we found some brothers and sisters who invited us to spend a week with them. And so we came to Rome. 15 The brothers and sisters there had heard that we were coming, and they traveled as far as the Forum of Appius and the Three Taverns to meet us. At the sight of these people Paul thanked God and was encouraged. 16 When we got to Rome, Paul was allowed to live by himself, with a soldier to guard him.

Study Notes: These will be added as I am able.

28:15 Where did the Roman believers come from? The gospel message had spread to Rome by various methods. Many Jews who lived in Rome visited Jerusalem for religious festivals. Some were present at Pentecost (2:10), believed in Jesus, and brought the message back to Rome. Also, Paul had written his letter to the Romans before he visited there.

28:15 The Forum of Appius was a town about 43 miles south of Rome. Three Taverns was located about 35 miles south of Rome. A tavern was a shop, or a place that provided food and lodging for travelers. The Christians openly went to meet Paul and encourage him.

Have you ever thought about your destination? Paul had finally reached his destination of Rome after enduring hardships, interruptions, and changes of direction. He knew he was in the place God had sent him to be. He knew what it took for him to get there. So when he got there and was greeted by other believers, he thanked God for the encouragement. God did the prep work in Paul and others and in setting the stage. God did the guidance and protection. There was much to be thankful for. Many of us (all of us?) entered our journey unprepared, half asleep and under the deceptions of others. But God knows His plan for each of us. He guides and protects us to our destination too. If we think about it, we have a lot to be thankful for also.

Our precious Guide and Savior, thank You for preparing us for our daily walk through life. Thank You for Your presence in the hardships and in the blessed greetings of frens. Thank You for guiding us through the remaining trials and testimonies as truths are revealed. Sanctify us to where we can honestly forgive others. Purify us to truly repent from sins. Teach us to pray more deeply in relationship with You. We depend upon Your guidance and gifts with gratitude and praise. In Jesus' name, Amen.

A Song: https://youtu.be/D7x1CXQbaWQ

Have a blessed day.