_THE VIPER_ ‘And when Paul had gathered a bundle of sticks, and laid them on the fire, there came a viper out of the heat, and fastened on his hand.’ Acts 28:3 This chapter records the sequel to the wreck. The two hundred and seventy-six souls had escaped from the ship and had all got safely to la... [ Continue Reading ]
_THE PAST AND THE FUTURE_ ‘Whom when Paul saw, he thanked God and took courage.’ Acts 28:15 After many perils and long delays, St. Paul had set his foot on the Italian shore, and was journeying towards Rome along the Appian Way. His heart was oppressed with sadness, and his spirit darkened by the... [ Continue Reading ]
_PAUL IN ROME_ ‘And some believed the things which were spoken, and some believed not.’ Acts 28:24 It was in the spring of a.d. 61 that St. Paul reached Rome. The aim of his life was fulfilled. The prisoners were handed over to the captain of the guard, but St. Paul was separated from the other p... [ Continue Reading ]
_THE MISSION TO THE GENTILES_ ‘Be it known therefore unto you, that the salvation of God is sent unto the Gentiles, and that they will bear it.’ Acts 28:28 The Jews had exhausted St. Paul’s patience. He had reasoned with them; he had pleaded with them; but all to no purpose. They refused to accep... [ Continue Reading ]