Paul Preached in Rome (Acts 28)
Dear families,
Acts 28 finished out the nearly 30-year saga of Acts on a high note: Paul, by God’s grace, was able to carry out two years of faithful ministry there in the great city of Rome. Despite the troublesome circumstances surrounding his entry and reputation before the Romans, God proved Himself faithful and demonstrated the power of His gospel.
How, through the book of Acts, might we glean a deeper understanding of God’s work in the lives of His followers? What does Acts 28 teach us about God’s kingdom?
This incredible book of the Bible detailed the earliest days of the church and how the Holy Spirit has remained at work in His people’s lives, just as Christ promised. Here in the final chapter of Acts, we see the continued example of Paul’s reliance on the Holy Spirit as he ministered to and healed those on the island of Malta, as well as his years spent boldly proclaiming the gospel to all who visited him amidst his imprisonment.
Against all odds, the apostle found himself in the city where not even a shipwreck, false accusation, or snakebite could impede his arrival or ministry. Paul’s story in Acts ends with him being found faithful despite all that was stacked against him. Yet even his own faithfulness pales in comparison to the faithfulness of the God who called him on this mission.
Luke set the context for this book in chapter 1, when he stated that the resurrected Christ appeared to His people and spoke about the kingdom of God, promising His Spirit to them as they witnessed to the world. We see Paul exemplify this Spirit-filled life on mission as a witness, declaring the truth of God’s kingdom to all who’d listen—from slaves to kings. May we, too, be the witnesses we’re called to be, especially to the boys and girls entrusted to us through these sessions centered around His love.
Check out The Gospel Project At Home for resources designed to help you lead a family worship experience as well as suggestions for morning and evening prayer times and family activities.
FAMILY TALKING POINTS
CHRIST CONNECTION
This is the big idea of how this week’s Bible story points to Jesus.
Babies & Toddlers: Paul shared the good news that Jesus saves sinners.
Younger Preschool: Paul told others about Jesus even when he was a prisoner. He kept sharing the good news even when people disagreed. Everyone who trusts in Jesus will be saved.
Older Preschool: Paul told others about Jesus even when he was a prisoner. He kept sharing the good news even when people disagreed. The message about Jesus seems silly to some, but everyone who trusts in Jesus will be saved.
Kids: Being a prisoner in Rome did not stop Paul from sharing his faith. He continued to share the gospel even when people disagreed. The message about Jesus seems foolish to some, but everyone who trusts in Jesus will be saved.
BIG PICTURE QUESTION & ANSWER
This is an important biblical truth that your child will encounter each week of this unit.
Younger Preschool: Why should we praise Jesus? We should praise Jesus for all He has done for us.
Older Preschool: Why should we praise Jesus? We should praise Jesus for all He has done for us.
Kids: Why should we praise Jesus? We should praise Jesus for what He has done to provide our salvation and also because He is returning one day to make all things right.
KEY PASSAGE
This is a Bible verse that relates to what your child will encounter each week of this unit.
Babies & Toddlers: Lord, I will praise Your name. Isaiah 25:1
Younger Preschool: Lord, I will praise Your name. Isaiah 25:1
Older Preschool: LORD, you are my God; … I will praise your name, for you have accomplished wonders. Isaiah 25:1
Kids: LORD, you are my God; I will exalt you. I will praise your name, for you have accomplished wonders, plans formed long ago, with perfect faithfulness. Isaiah 25:1
** Next week: We Are Here to Make Much of Jesus (1 Thessalonians 4–5)