March 5, 2006
In Paul’s preaching to the Roman synagogue leaders in Acts 23, we see the fulfillment of God’s promise that Paul would testify about Christ in Rome. Paul taught from the Old Testament, using verifiable historical data to fuse the biblical Christ with the historical Jesus in the minds of his listeners and boldly urging them to turn to Christ in faith. Alistair Begg notes that the same sense of urgency marks every occasion on which the Gospel is presented. No one can presume a second opportunity to hear and respond.
23When they had appointed a day for him, they came to him at his lodging in greater numbers. From morning till evening he expounded to them, testifying to the kingdom of God and trying to convince them about Jesus both from the Law of Moses and from the Prophets. 24And some were convinced by what he said, but others disbelieved. 25And disagreeing among themselves, they departed after Paul had made one statement: “The Holy Spirit was right in saying to your fathers through Isaiah the prophet:
26“‘Go to this people, and say,
“You will indeed hear but never understand,
and you will indeed see but never perceive.”
27For this people's heart has grown dull,
and with their ears they can barely hear,
and their eyes they have closed;
lest they should see with their eyes
and hear with their ears
and understand with their heart
and turn, and I would heal them.’
28Therefore let it be known to you that this salvation of God has been sent to the Gentiles; they will listen.”6
Copyright © 2023, Alistair Begg. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
Scripture taken from The Holy Bible, English Standard Version. Copyright ©2001 by Crossway Bibles, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved. Text provided by the Crossway Bibles Web Service.