This message focuses on Paul’s voyage toward Rome and his service in love of people along the way, during the shipwreck, and the resulting visit to Malta. Paul proclaims and embodies the Gospel.
(Acts 27-28)
Sermon Outline
“For two whole years Paul stayed there in his own rented house and welcomed all who came to see him He proclaimed the kingdom of God and taught about the Lord Jesus Christ—with all boldness and without hindrance!” (Acts 28:30-31)
Love Under Arrest (Acts 27:1-12)
- Paul Sails for Rome
- Paul experiences kindness along the way
Love Amid Storms and Shipwrecks (Acts 27:13-44)
- Paul shows boldness and love as the storms come
- Paul witnesses to Jesus as Messiah amid the shipwreck
Love in Every Place (Acts 28:1-31)
- Paul afflicted in Malta
- Paul extending the kindness of prayer and healing to Publius
- Paul welcomed by the church in Rome
- Paul testifies to Jesus as Messiah while under guard
Living with Jesus the King of Love
- God’s love enters our prisons in Jesus
- God’s love enters our storms in Jesus
- God’s love enters every place we go in Jesus
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS:
- What would you say it means to be deeply loved? When have you experienced that?
- This week we continue our sermon series, “Jesus, King of the Nations,” by looking at the story of Paul enroute to Rome in Acts 27-28. Whether on your own or with others, begin your study in prayer, asking God to speak to you through His word, and then read that text aloud.
- Background: This episode occurs after Paul has been arrested in Jerusalem and then appeals to be tried under the Roman imperial court in Rome..
- In Acts 27:1-12, Paul begins the long journey to Rome. How does Paul encounter the love of Jesus from others on this part of the journey?
- The journey takes a sharp turn as storms whip up around the sea vessel in Acts 27:13-44. During the storm and the eventual shipwreck how does Paul exhibit the love of Christ to others? What might have been some alternative responses he could have offered?
- Oftentimes, it is in everyday situations that the love of Christ comes through most powerfully. Why do you think seeing glimpses of love in travel, storms, and a shipwreck are so meaningful here in Paul’s life?
- In Acts 28:1-10, Paul and the others land on the island of Malta. What happens here and how does Paul once again display the powerful love of Christ?
- With Acts 28:11-31, Paul finally reaches Rome. How would you describe what happens in Rome?
- When have you experienced God offering you clear opportunities to witness to the love of Christ? What happened?
- What is one thing you sense God calling to your attention personally through this week’s study? If you are with a small group, discuss that with one another and then pray about what you shared. If you are on your own, write it down, pray about it, and consider sharing your thoughts with someone this week.
DIG DEEPER
Exploring Faith
- When have you experienced love from someone who said they were a Christian?
- Have you experienced a love that seemed as if it was from God?
Growing in Faith
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What would it look like to share the love of God with someone in your ordinary relationships amid everyday circumstances? What is one specific way you could do that as we near Christmas?
Centered in Faith
- Paul’s witness to the love of Christ in these chapters often comes during circumstances that are difficult. How might you grow in sharing God’s love even when your circumstances are challenging?
- What can help you develop in your ability to show love in difficult situations?