Mar 19, 2018
This episode will bring Luke’s book to a close. He will wrap up his chronicle with Paul in prison in Rome and the fate of the gospel somewhat up in the air and unresolved. Luke does not tell us what happened to Paul. But according to the early church historian, Eusebius, Paul was eventually freed and allowed to continue his ministry, only to be sent back to Rome again where he was martyred. It is believed that, while in prison in Rome, Paul wrote four of his letters: Ephesians, Philippians, Colossians, and Philemon. After his release, he wrote what are typically referred to as his pastoral epistles. While Luke provides us no clear indication as to what happened to Paul, he does let us know that the two years Paul was held prisoner in Rome, he continued to proclaim the Kingdom of God and teach about the Lord Jesus Christ. Despite his imprisonment, he remained bold and fully committed to his commission. He did not shirk from the responsibilities given to him by Jesus. Captivity in Rome was not a detriment, but a blessing. Had he not been there, he might never have had time to write the letters he did. Paul was sidelined by God, destined to remain in one place for a lengthy period of time, providing him with ample opportunity to deal with the issues taking place in the many churches he had helped plant. Paul’s days were numbered. He would one day pass from the scene, but the gospel would continue unhindered. Jesus had promised Peter, “I will build my church, and all the powers of hell will not conquer it”, and we know from personal experience, that Jesus kept that promise. The church did not die with Paul’s imprisonment. It would not cease to exist when Paul breathed his last breath. The church continues to grow and prosper, against all odds.