Unstoppable Faith: Paul’s Journey from Chains to Commission
- Be God's Glory
- Nov 16
- 11 min read
Welcome to Day 319 of The Glory Team Bible Reading Plan.
In the final chapters of Acts, Paul’s unwavering faith takes center stage as he boldly proclaims the Gospel before kings, endures a life-threatening storm, and ultimately reaches Rome to fulfill God’s divine purpose. These chapters reveal that no obstacle—whether imprisonment, injustice, or disaster—can hinder the mission of God. Paul’s testimony before Agrippa demonstrates the power of personal witness, while the perilous voyage to Rome highlights God’s providence and sovereignty over nature. When Paul finally arrives in Rome, his ministry continues unchained, as he preaches the Kingdom of God with boldness and without hindrance. Through these accounts, we see that the Gospel is unstoppable, and God’s plan prevails even through suffering and adversity.
Acts 26
Acts 26 presents Paul’s defense before King Agrippa, where he powerfully recounts his personal conversion and divine calling. Speaking with grace and boldness, Paul describes his former life as a persecutor of Christians and his encounter with the risen Christ on the road to Damascus. He explains how Jesus appointed him to open the eyes of both Jews and Gentiles, turning them from darkness to light and from the power of Satan to God. Paul’s testimony emphasizes repentance and faith in Christ as the fulfillment of the prophets and Moses’ writings. Though Agrippa admits Paul’s words nearly persuade him to become a Christian, the king ultimately dismisses him. This chapter highlights the transformative power of a personal encounter with Jesus and the courage to share one’s faith before powerful but unbelieving audiences.
Acts 27
Acts 27 records Paul’s voyage to Rome under Roman custody, a journey marked by divine warning and miraculous preservation. Despite Paul’s counsel to delay travel, the ship sets sail and is soon caught in a violent storm called a Euroclydon. For days, the crew faces despair and loss, but Paul reassures them with a message from an angel, declaring that though the ship will be destroyed, no lives will be lost. His calm leadership and faith strengthen all aboard as they cling to God’s promise amid the chaos. Eventually, the shipwreck strands everyone on the island of Malta, exactly as God had revealed. This chapter vividly portrays God’s sovereignty over nature and His faithfulness to preserve His servant’s life for the sake of His mission.
Acts 28
Acts 28 concludes the book of Acts with Paul’s ministry on Malta and his long-awaited arrival in Rome. On the island, Paul miraculously survives a deadly snake bite, confirming God’s protection and causing the locals to view him as divinely favored. He heals many, including the father of Publius, the island’s chief official, demonstrating God’s compassion and power through His servant. After several months, Paul finally reaches Rome, where he is placed under house arrest but freely welcomes visitors and boldly preaches the Gospel. Despite being physically chained, the Word of God remains unchained as Paul proclaims Jesus Christ to all who come to hear. This final chapter affirms that no prison, storm, or human authority can silence God’s mission—the Gospel continues to advance through faithful obedience.
Origin & Meaning of the Name:
The Book of Acts, also known as the “Acts of the Apostles,” derives its name from the Greek word “praxeis,” meaning “deeds” or “actions.” The title reflects the works and ministries carried out by the apostles under the power of the Holy Spirit. Acts serves as a continuation of the Gospel of Luke, recording the dynamic acts of the risen Christ through His followers as they spread the gospel from Jerusalem to the ends of the earth. It bridges the story of Jesus’ earthly ministry with the formation and growth of His Church, showing how the Holy Spirit empowered ordinary men and women to fulfill the Great Commission.
Purpose of the Book:
The purpose of the Book of Acts is to provide a historical and theological account of how the Christian faith spread beyond its Jewish roots into the Gentile world. It documents the fulfillment of Jesus’ command in Acts 1:8—“You will be my witnesses in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth.” Acts emphasizes the unity and power of the Holy Spirit in guiding the Church’s mission, confirming the gospel message through miracles, conversions, and the bold witness of the apostles. It reveals how God’s plan of salvation unfolded across cultural, ethnic, and geographical barriers, establishing the foundation of Christianity as a Spirit-led movement.
Authorship & Sources Supporting the Author:
The author of Acts is Luke, the beloved physician and companion of the Apostle Paul (Colossians 4:14; Philemon 1:24; 2 Timothy 4:11). Early Christian tradition consistently attributes both the Gospel of Luke and Acts to him. The opening verses of both books (Luke 1:1–4 and Acts 1:1–2) confirm that they were written by the same author to a man named Theophilus, indicating Acts as a sequel to Luke’s Gospel. Additional evidence comes from the “we passages” (Acts 16:10–17; 20:5–15; 21:1–18; 27:1–28:16), where the author shifts to first-person narration, implying he was an eyewitness and companion of Paul during his missionary journeys.
Outside the Bible, early church fathers such as Irenaeus (Against Heresies, 3.14.1), Eusebius (Ecclesiastical History, 3.4.2), and Jerome (De Viris Illustribus, 7) all affirm Luke as the author of Acts. These historical sources, alongside internal biblical evidence, strongly support Luke’s authorship.
Key People:
Peter, who plays a leading role in the early chapters as the spokesperson for the apostles and a key figure in bringing the gospel to the Jews
John, his close companion in ministry
Stephen, the first Christian martyr whose death sparked wider evangelism
Philip, who evangelizes in Samaria and leads the Ethiopian eunuch to faith
Paul (formerly Saul), the most prominent figure in the latter half of Acts, whose missionary journeys carry the gospel throughout the Roman Empire
Barnabas, a trusted encourager and missionary partner of Paul
James, the brother of Jesus, who leads the Jerusalem church.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Book of Acts reveals the unstoppable movement of the gospel through the power of the Holy Spirit. It chronicles the transformation of fearful disciples into bold apostles, the birth of the global Church, and the fulfillment of God’s redemptive plan to reach all nations. Acts serves as both a historical record and a spiritual model for believers today—calling the Church to live courageously, united in the Spirit, and committed to spreading the message of Jesus Christ to every corner of the world.
What is God's Name in these Chapters?
In this portion of our journey we want to dive deep into the character of God described in His name. By identifying who God is, we can further relate to Him personally and build a stronger relationship and connection with Our Father.
Names are important. They give significance to places, people, and things. We identify with so much based off what it's name is. This is considerably notable when it comes to the names of God.
"Jehovah" is considered a Latinized version of the Hebrew name "Yahweh" (represented by the consonants YHWH) where the vowels of the Hebrew word "Adonai" (meaning "my Lord") were added to the Tetragrammaton (YHWH) when pronounced by Jewish readers who avoided saying the sacred name directly; essentially, Christian scholars combined the consonants of YHWH with the vowels of Adonai to create the pronunciation "Jehovah" in the Latin alphabet.
Acts 26
In Acts 26, God reveals Himself as Redeemer and Light-Giver. Through Paul’s testimony, we see a God who transforms a persecutor into a preacher and a sinner into a servant of the Gospel. God’s character shines as merciful and purposeful—He doesn’t waste Paul’s past but redeems it to reach both Jews and Gentiles. The Lord is also seen as the Source of Light, calling Paul to open the eyes of others so that they may turn “from darkness to light, and from the power of Satan to God” (Acts 26:18). The lesson here is that God can take anyone’s brokenness and turn it into a ministry of grace; His redemption changes our story so we can change others’ lives through His light.
While no Hebrew names of God are mentioned directly, His nature reflects El Yeshuati — “God of My Salvation.” This name embodies His role in bringing deliverance through Christ. The lesson from this chapter reminds us that God’s salvation is personal and transformative. Just as He redeemed Paul from spiritual blindness, He invites us to walk in His light and become witnesses of His saving power.
Acts 27
In Acts 27, God is revealed as Sovereign Protector and Faithful Deliverer. Even as Paul faces physical danger on the sea, God’s authority over nature and His concern for human life are evident. He sends an angel to reassure Paul that no one aboard the ship will perish, demonstrating His compassion and control even in chaos. God’s character here is steady, protective, and trustworthy—He is with His people in the storm and commands the winds and waves to fulfill His will. The lesson He teaches is that faith in His promises brings peace amid turmoil, and His presence is our anchor when life feels unstable.
Though no Hebrew names are directly used, the Lord’s nature aligns with Jehovah Shalom — “The Lord is Peace.” Despite the violent storm, God’s word brings calm assurance to Paul and those around him. The lesson is that when we trust in God’s peace rather than the circumstances around us, we can stand firm and even bring stability to others. His peace is not the absence of storms but the presence of His power within them.
Acts 28
In Acts 28, God displays Himself as Healer, Provider, and Unstoppable Lord of the Gospel. From protecting Paul from the venomous snake to empowering him to heal the sick on Malta, God’s compassion and power are revealed through tangible acts of grace. Even when Paul reaches Rome under house arrest, God’s Word continues to go forth without hindrance, showing that nothing can restrain His mission. His character is faithful and victorious—He ensures that His servant fulfills His calling despite opposition. The lesson here is that God’s work is never limited by human chains; He uses every situation for His glory and for the advancement of His Kingdom.
No Hebrew names of God are explicitly mentioned, but His actions reflect Jehovah Rophe — “The Lord Who Heals.” The healing miracles on Malta and the spiritual restoration that follows Paul’s ministry in Rome testify that God restores both body and soul. The lesson God teaches is that His healing power and divine plan continue to move forward through those who remain faithful. Even in confinement, His Word remains free—and so should our faith.
Christ in Every Book of the Bible
Christ is the theme throughout the Bible. From Genesis to Revelation, God reveals His Son, Jesus Christ.
Christ is the Seed of the woman Genesis 3:14 , He is the Passover Lamb Exodus 12:3, The Atoning Sacrifice Leviticus 17:11, The Smitten Rock Numbers 20:8, 11, The Faithful Prophet Deuteronomy 18:18, Christ is the Captain of the Lord's Host Joshua 5:15, The Divine Deliverer Judges 2:18, The Kinsman Redeemer Ruth 3:12, Christ is the anticipated as the Anointed One,1 Samuel 2:10, The Son of David 2 Samuel 7:14, The Coming King 1 & 2 Kings, Builder of the Temple 1 & 2 Chronicles (1 Chronicles 28:20), Ezra represents Christ as the Restorer of the Nation Ezra 6:14, 15, Nehemiah shows Him as the Restorer of the Temple Nehemiah 6:15, and Esther portrays Him as the Preserver of the Nation Ester 4:14, Christ is seen as the Living Redeemer Job 19:25, The Praise of Israel Psalm 150:6, The Wisdom of God Proverbs 8:22, 23, The Great Teacher Ecclesiastics 12:11, The Fairest of Ten Thousand Song of Solomon 5:10. Christ is the Suffering Servant Isaiah 53:11, The Maker of the New Covenant Jeremiah 31:31, The Man of Sorrows Lamentations 3:28-30, The Glory of God Ezekiel 43:2, The coming Messiah Daniel 9:25, The Lover of the Unfaithful Hosea 3:1, The Hope of Israel Joel 3:16, The Husbandman Amos 9:13, the Savior Obadiah 21, the Resurrected One Jonah 2:10, the Ruler in Israel Micah 5:2, the Avenger Nahum 2:1, the Holy God Habakkuk 1:13, the King of Israel Zephaniah 3:15, the Desire of Nations Haggai 2:7, the Righteous Branch Zechariah 3:8, and the Sun of Righteousness Malachi 4:2.
The King of the Jews Matthew 2:2, the Servant of the Lord Mark 10:45, the Son of Man Luke 19:10, and the Son of God John 1:1. Christ is the Ascended Lord Acts 1:10, the believer's Righteousness Romans 1:17, Sanctification 1 Corinthians 1:30, Sufficiency 2 Corinthians 12:9, and Liberty Galatians 2:4. He is the Exalted Head of the church Ephesians 1:22, the Christian's Joy Philippians 1:26, and the Fullness of Deity Colossians 2:9. In the Thessalonian epistles Christ is the believer's Comfort 1 Thessalonians 4:16, 17 and Glory 2 Thessalonians 1:12. The Christian's Preserver 1 Timothy 4:10, Rewarder 2 Timothy 4:8, Blessed Hope Titus 2:13, and Substitute Philemon 17. He is the High Priest Hebrews 4:15, the Giver of Wisdom James 1:5, the Rock 1 Peter 2:6, and Precious Promise 2 Peter 1:4. John represents Christ as the Life 1 John, the Truth 2 John, and the Way 3 John, Jude portrays Christ as the Advocate and Revelation shows Him as King of Kings and Lord of Lords Revelation 19:16. The whole Bible is literally all about Christ!
Questions:
Let's expand how these chapters expanded your faith and your relationship with God.
Questions About God's Character: What do these chapters reveal about God’s faithfulness to His word and promises?
How does God’s mercy and power of redemption shine through Paul’s testimony before King Agrippa in Acts 26?
What does God’s faithfulness to protect Paul through the storm in Acts 27 teach us about His control over creation and circumstances?
How do God’s words to Paul (“You must stand before Caesar”) reveal His sovereignty and commitment to fulfill His promises?
In Acts 28, how does God demonstrate His healing nature through Paul’s survival from the snake bite and the healings on Malta?
What do these chapters show us about God’s ability to use suffering and imprisonment to accomplish His divine purposes?
How is God’s peace revealed in the midst of fear and chaos during the storm, and what does that teach us about His presence in our trials?
In what ways do these chapters reveal that God is unstoppable—that no authority, storm, or circumstance can prevent His Word from going forth?
Questions About Themes:
How does Paul’s defense before Agrippa demonstrate the theme of testimony and the power of sharing your personal encounter with Christ?
What does the storm in Acts 27 symbolize about faith being tested and strengthened through trials?
How do these chapters emphasize the theme of divine providence—God guiding Paul’s journey despite opposition?
What role does obedience play in fulfilling God’s mission, even when the outcome seems uncertain?
How does the Gospel’s advancement in Rome, even while Paul is under house arrest, reinforce the theme of the unstoppable Kingdom of God?
What do these chapters teach about courage and perseverance when faith brings us into conflict with powerful people or hard circumstances?
How does Paul’s consistency in message and character, despite changing situations, demonstrate the theme of spiritual endurance?
Reflective Application Questions:
How can Paul’s boldness in sharing his testimony inspire you to speak about your own transformation in Christ?
When have you seen God turn what looked like a setback or storm into an opportunity for ministry or growth?
What does it look like for you to trust God’s promises when your situation feels uncertain or out of control?
How can you remain faithful in your calling even when the results are not immediate or when opposition rises?
In what ways can you bring peace and encouragement to others when they are fearful, as Paul did during the storm?
How does Paul’s attitude in prison challenge you to find freedom and purpose even in seasons of limitation?
What steps can you take to make sure that, like Paul, you live as an unashamed witness for Christ until the very end of your journey?
These questions can help deepen understanding of the themes of these chapters, while encouraging trust in God's sovereignty, justice, faithfulness, and timing. We hope thoughts to these questions invite you to reflect on your own journeys, grow in faith, and understand more about God's nature.
Reference Guides:
Life Application Study Guide
A Popular Survey of the Old Testament by Norman L. Geisler
The Power of God's Names by Tony Evans
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