PAUL‘S MISSION IN ROME
Acts 27:1 – 28:31
Key Verse 28:31
* Paul’s journey to Rome in chains (27:1-44)
1. What significance did the start of the journey in chapter 27 have for Paul? Trace the travel route of chapter 27 on a map and describe the individual stops in the respective context. Who were the different groups of people on the ship (1.3.11.42.43)? What happened when the travel party continued their journey to Crete against Paul’s advice (9-15)? What do we learn in this passage about the blessing of obedience to the servants of God?
2. Based on what promise and vision was Paul able to overcome his fear and how could he serve and encourage others as a leader and shepherd? (21-26; 19:21; 27:3; Acts 9:15, 16; 30-38; 42-44) What can we learn from Paul’s shepherd life and leadership? How did God prepare Paul for Rome and world mission through this storm?
* Paul’s one-to-one Bible study ministry in the prison in Rome (28:1-31)
3. How did God turn a potential tragedy into an opportunity for his work in Malta (3-6, Mk 16:18) and what did Paul do for three months? (7-9). Illustrate the travel route from Malta to Rome using a map (11-16). How did God fulfill His sovereign counsel through Paul’s arrival in Rome and what special treatment did Paul receive? (16.30) What testimony did Paul share with the Jews in Rome (17-23) and how did they respond? (24-28) What does it mean for you to be bound with chains for the hope of God? (20)
4. Describe how and with what message Paul continued his work in Rome (30.31). What can we learn about the way God works for world mission? In what way is the one-to-one Bible study the fulfillment of world mission? Give examples on how the book of Acts was continued after chapter 28. How do you continue to write the book of Acts in your time and environment?