03 Mar Footsteps #437
Footsteps #437. The series on “Following the Evidence for God” will start later in the year. Starting Tomorrow, for those who request it only, will be My autobiography, “Whispering Eternity: The Search for Meaning.” This will follow my journey from adolescent meaninglessness, through romance, spiritualism, eastern religions, to absolute confidence in the life to come. It will include two major epiphanies and will explore my struggle with a meaningful prayer and devotional life. It will even include some of my adolescent poetry. Register here: 0474591841 Short explanation here: https://fb.watch/bh71BRqymS/
The last scene of Acts is one that emphasizes the victory of the gospel, as no force, whether Jewish or Roman, had been able to stop its progress. It is not clear why Luke finishes his book when he did, as there is evidence that, due to the weakness of the case against Paul, he was released from this imprisonment, went on another missionary journey, and was again taken to Rome and executed (2 Tim. 4:6–8). Perhaps, from the standpoint of Luke’s literary purpose, by having preached even in distant Rome, the gospel already had reached the “ends of the earth” (Acts 1:8).
Paul’s patience and cheerfulness during his long and unjust imprisonment, plus his courage and faith, were a continual sermon. His spirit, so unlike the spirit of the world, bore witness that a power higher than that of the earth was abiding with him. And by his example, Christians were impelled to greater energy as advocates of the cause from the public labours of which Paul had now been withdrawn. Paul’s bonds were an influence on those who were only years away from the persecutions of Nero.
Luke’s account is unfinished because the Gospel proclamation is unfinished. Many dramatic and exciting chapters have been written throughout the centuries, often with the blood of God’s faithful. Now, in these last days, it is our turn to add one more chapter – the last one I hope! For this gospel shall be preached in all the world, and then the end shall come. (Matt 24:14)
Commentators place Paul’s birth between the dates 5BC to 5AD and his death in AD 67/68. That means he could have been between 62 and 72 when he died.
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