Acts·Chapter 28

How to Apply

This week, challenge yourself to really listen. When someone is speaking to you, focus on understanding their perspective instead of just waiting for your turn to talk. You might even try repeating back what they said to ensure you got it right. Also, think about areas in your life where you might be hearing messages but not fully understanding them. Is there a new idea or belief you’ve been hesitant to explore? Dive into that with an open mind. It’s about practicing empathy and curiosity—two powerful tools for connection.

Chapter Context

Now, let’s zoom out a bit. This moment comes at the end of a long journey for the speaker, Paul, who has been sharing his experiences and beliefs about faith. He’s speaking to a group of Jewish leaders in Rome, and this is where he lays it all out. After sharing his story and the truth he believes, he recognizes that many are hearing him but not really getting it. It’s a pivotal moment, highlighting the tension between his hopeful message and the reality of people's closed hearts. This verse serves as a dramatic turning point, emphasizing the struggle to communicate deep truths to those who aren’t open to them. It sets the stage for what happens next, as Paul prepares to turn his focus to the wider world, showing that the message isn’t just for a select few but for everyone who is willing to hear.

Key Biblical Words (Word Study)

• go - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• to - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• this - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• people - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• and - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• say - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• will - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• indeed - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• hear - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• but - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".

Reflection Question

When was the last time you felt like you were listening to someone, but your mind was somewhere else? What might it look like to truly engage with what they’re saying?

Related Verses

• Isaiah 6:9 - This verse, written about 700 years before, talks about people who listen but don’t understand, echoing the same theme of missed communication.
• Matthew 13:14 - Jesus quotes this same idea, highlighting a recurring struggle throughout history where people are hearing but not perceiving the deeper truth.
• Mark 4:12 - This connects by showing how Jesus explains why some hear his message but don’t truly get it, reinforcing the challenge of sharing profound truths.

Personal Prayer

Lord, thank You for the truth found in Acts 28:26. Help me to take the insights from this scripture and apply them to my heart today.Amen.

Frequently Asked Questions

Key Verses

Acts 28:5, Acts 28:7, Acts 28:15, Acts 28:20, Acts 28:31

Historical Context

Acts 28 serves as the final chapter of a larger narrative that begins in the Gospel of Luke. The author, Luke, aims to document the birth and spread of the early church through the apostles, particularly focusing on Paul’s missionary journeys. This chapter reflects a transition of the Gospel reaching the heart of the Roman Empire, signifying the fulfillment of Jesus' promise that the disciples would be His witnesses 'to the ends of the earth.' Paul's appeal to Caesar and subsequent ministry in Rome underscore the continued expansion of Christianity amidst adversity and opposition.