The Gospel’s Spread to Rome

Introduction

The Book of Acts closes with a climactic vision: the apostle Paul, once a persecutor of the church, now boldly proclaiming the Gospel in the very heart of the Roman Empire. From the Pentecost event in Jerusalem to the missionary journeys across Asia Minor and Greece, Acts narrates the unstoppable advance of God’s Word. The final chapters (Acts 27–28) bring this trajectory to its fulfillment as Paul travels under arrest toward Rome, enduring storms, shipwreck, and trials, yet never ceasing to bear witness.

For Luke, Rome is more than a geographical destination. It represents the symbolic center of the Gentile world, the hub of political power, and the stage on which the Gospel demonstrates its universal relevance. By reaching Rome, the Word of God reaches “the ends of the earth” (Acts 1:8). The final image of Acts is Paul preaching “with all boldness and without hindrance” (28:31), testifying that no power can contain God’s mission.

This chapter will explore Paul’s journey to Rome, the theological significance of this movement, the themes that conclude Acts, and the implications for the church’s mission today.

Part 1: The Voyage to Rome (Acts 27)

1. Paul Appeals to Caesar

After years of imprisonment in Caesarea, Paul appeals to Caesar as his right as a Roman citizen (25:11). Festus agrees, declaring, “You have appealed to Caesar; to Caesar you will go!” (25:12). This legal maneuver ensures Paul’s journey to Rome and places the narrative within the larger framework of Roman authority.

2. The Shipwreck Narrative

Luke devotes an entire chapter (27) to Paul’s voyage, one of the most detailed accounts of ancient seafaring in literature. The ship encounters fierce storms, and all hope seems lost. Yet Paul, encouraged by an angelic vision, reassures the crew that their lives will be spared (27:22–24). His leadership during crisis highlights his authority not merely as a prisoner but as God’s servant.

The ship eventually runs aground on Malta. Though shipwrecked, all 276 passengers survive, fulfilling God’s promise.

3. Symbolism of the Storm

The storm represents more than meteorological detail. It symbolizes the turbulence of mission amid opposition and chaos. Yet God’s sovereignty prevails, ensuring that Paul reaches his destination.

Part 2: Ministry on Malta (Acts 28:1–10)

1. Hospitality and Miracles

On Malta, the locals show “unusual kindness” (28:2). Paul survives a viper bite, which the people first interpret as judgment but later as evidence of divine favor. He heals the father of Publius, the chief official, and many others.

2. Continuity of Mission

Even in shipwreck and exile, Paul continues to heal, preach, and serve. Luke emphasizes that God’s mission advances in every circumstance.

Part 3: Arrival in Rome (Acts 28:11–16)

Paul finally arrives in Rome, welcomed by believers who travel to meet him (28:15). Despite being under house arrest, he is permitted to live with relative freedom, guarded but able to receive visitors.

The narrative portrays Rome not as the end of Paul’s mission but as the next stage of proclamation.

Part 4: Paul’s Preaching in Rome (Acts 28:17–31)

1. Address to Jewish Leaders

Paul first summons local Jewish leaders, explaining that he has been imprisoned for the “hope of Israel” (28:20). Some are persuaded, while others reject his message. Quoting Isaiah 6, Paul concludes:

“This salvation of God has been sent to the Gentiles; they will listen” (28:28).

2. Open and Unhindered Witness

The book closes with a summary:

“He lived there two whole years at his own expense and welcomed all who came to him, proclaiming the kingdom of God and teaching about the Lord Jesus Christ with all boldness and without hindrance” (28:30–31).

This final note emphasizes the triumph of the Gospel. Though Paul is in chains, the Word of God is free.

Part 5: Theological Themes

1. Fulfillment of Acts 1:8

Acts begins with Jesus’ commission to be witnesses “in Jerusalem, Judea, Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.” Rome represents that climactic fulfillment.

2. The Gospel Before Kings and Nations

Paul’s trials and arrival in Rome fulfill prophecies that he would bear witness before rulers and nations (Acts 9:15). His ministry embodies the global scope of the Gospel.

3. The Unstoppable Word

Despite imprisonment, storms, and opposition, the Word advances. Luke underscores the sovereignty of God in ensuring that nothing hinders the mission.

4. Gentile Inclusion

The closing emphasis on Gentiles listening underscores the universal scope of salvation. The rejection by some Jews contrasts with the openness of Gentiles, echoing themes throughout Acts.

5. Eschatological Horizon

Rome is not merely a geographical end but an eschatological symbol. The Gospel has reached the heart of empire, pointing toward the ultimate vision of nations gathered before God.

Part 6: Implications for the Church Today

1. Mission in Adversity

Paul’s shipwreck and imprisonment show that mission persists amid adversity. The church today can find encouragement that God works through crisis.

2. Hospitality and Witness

The hospitality of Malta and Paul’s openness in Rome highlight the role of hospitality in mission. The church is called to welcome strangers and proclaim Christ openly.

3. Gospel and Empire

Acts portrays Christianity not as violent revolt but as a faith that subverts empire through proclamation of a greater Lord. Today’s church must navigate its witness within political and cultural powers.

4. Hope in God’s Sovereignty

The narrative assures believers that God’s purposes prevail. The church can face uncertainty with confidence in God’s sovereign mission.

Suggested Assignments

1. Exegetical Paper: Acts 27

   • Write a 3,000-word analysis of the shipwreck narrative. How does Luke use storm and deliverance to highlight theological themes?

2. Theological Essay: Gospel in Rome

   • Write a 2,500-word essay on the significance of Paul’s proclamation in Rome for understanding the universality of the Gospel.

3. Comparative Study

   • Compare Paul’s final chapters in Acts with Jonah’s mission. Write a 2,500-word paper on mission, obedience, and Gentile inclusion.

4. Apologetics Assignment

   • Write a 2,000-word essay on how Paul’s defense and proclamation in Rome inform Christian apologetics today.

5. Creative Assignment

   • Write a 1,000-word journal entry from the perspective of a Roman guard assigned to Paul. Reflect on how his preaching may have shaped your view of faith.

References

Barrett, C. K. (1994). A critical and exegetical commentary on the Acts of the Apostles (Vols. 1–2). T&T Clark.

Bruce, F. F. (1988). The Book of Acts (NICNT). Eerdmans.

Dunn, J. D. G. (1996). The Acts of the Apostles. Epworth.

Gaventa, B. R. (2003). The Acts of the Apostles. Abingdon.

Johnson, L. T. (1992). The Acts of the Apostles. Sacra Pagina. Liturgical Press.

Keener, C. S. (2012–2015). Acts: An exegetical commentary (Vols. 1–4). Baker Academic.

Marshall, I. H. (1980). Acts (TNTC). IVP.

Parsons, M. C. (2008). Acts. Paideia Commentary. Baker Academic.

Witherington, B. (1998). The Acts of the Apostles: A socio-rhetorical commentary. Eerdmans.

Wright, N. T. (2012). Paul: In fresh perspective. Fortress Press.