The Way
Two Years in a Rented House
A man in chains, a word unchained
Story
Three days after arriving in Rome, Paul called together the leaders of the Jews and said, “Though I have done nothing against our people or the customs of our ancestors, I was made a prisoner. It is because of the hope of Israel that I am bound with this chain.” They set a day, and many people came to where Paul was staying. From morning till evening Paul explained about Jesus from the law of Moses and the Prophets. Some believed, and some did not.
For two whole years Paul stayed in his own rented house and welcomed everyone who came to see him. He proclaimed the kingdom of God very boldly and without hindrance. Around that time the church in Philippi sent Epaphroditus to bring Paul a gift. Epaphroditus fell ill and nearly died, but he recovered. Paul sent him back to Philippi with a letter.
Paul wrote in the letter, “What has happened to me has actually helped the gospel spread. The whole imperial guard has come to know that I am in chains for Christ. For me, to live is Christ, and to die is gain. Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: rejoice.” A man in chains was sending joy to the church in Philippi.
Walk this scene on the map →Words of the Lord and of Paul
Brothers, I want you to know that what has happened to me has actually helped the gospel spread.
For me, to live is Christ, and to die is gain.
Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: rejoice.
Paul proclaimed the kingdom of God very boldly and without hindrance, and he taught about the Lord Jesus Christ.
The sayings are fresh renderings of the original meaning in today's language. Text: Acts 28:16–31 · Phil 1:12–21
Background
Philippians is a letter Paul wrote while in prison. Here we follow the old view that he wrote it in his rented house in Rome. Some scholars think he wrote it while imprisoned in Ephesus or Caesarea.
Pause and Reflect
Am I using my circumstances as an excuse to put off what I could do today?