Once Paul was finally in Rome, he did an unusual thing. “And it came to pass, that after three days Paul CALLED THE CHIEF OF THE JEWS together: and when they were come together, he said unto them …” Acts 28:17

He called his “enemies” to a conference! It was the Jews in Jerusalem who had orchestrated his arrest. And opposed him at every subsequent hearing, trial. Paul’s “kinsmen, according to the flesh.” (Romans 9:3)

He still wants to “defend” the Gospel, and his “lifestyle.” After all, he had done nothing wrong, certainly not worthy of death!

How did Paul’s “meeting” fare? What did he say?

“Men and brethren, though I have committed nothing against the people, or customs of our fathers, yet was I delivered prisoner from Jerusalem into the hands of the Romans.” Still Acts 28:17, King James Version.

Then he adds: “When they (the Romans) had examined me, would have let me go, because there was no cause of death in me. But when the Jews spake against it, I was constrained to appeal unto Caesar; not that I had ought to accuse my nation of.” Verses 18 and 19 of Acts 28.

I think Paul is making some headway! At least they are listening to him. Dialogue! “And they said unto him, We neither received letters out of Judaea concerning thee, neither any of the brethren that came shewed or spake any harm of thee. But we DESIRE to hear of thee what thou thinkest: for as concerning this sect, we know that every where it is spoken against.” Verses 21 and 22 now, where we learn that no accusers were present! They did not pursue their accusations! Also we hear a “spark” of interest!

Wow!

Paul squarely faced the problem, didn’t he? He did not run, what astounding boldness! (Proverbs 28:1)

Then the little Apostle casts the (soul-winning) net! Ever passionate about Israel! He uses the expression “hope of Israel!”

“For this cause therefore have I called for you, to see you, and to speak with you: because that for THE HOPE OF ISRAEL I am bound with this chain.”

And Israel’s hope is?

The Lord Jesus Christ!

Paul will now witness (testify) to everyone he sees, Jew and Gentile alike! Telling the glorious Gospel Story of the Death and Burial and Resurrection of our Saviour!

“The Hope of Israel” … do you know a Jewish person today? If so, begin introducing them to Jesus! And model the Christian life before their eyes.

Because we do have “hope” concerning those people, the Jews … even this promise (still from the pen of Paul) …

“And so ALL ISRAEL SHALL BE SAVED: as it is written, There shall come out of Sion the Deliverer (JESUS), and shall turn away ungodliness from Jacob.” Romans 11:26

Hallelujah!

— Dr. Mike Bagwell

.