Acts 28:23 – “They arranged to meet Paul on a certain day and came in even larger numbers to the place where he was staying. He witnessed to them from morning till evening, explaining about the kingdom of God, and from the Law of Moses and from the Prophets he tried to persuade them about Jesus.”

Extended Explanation of the Verse

This verse describes Paul’s meeting with the Jewish leaders in Rome. After they expressed interest in hearing more about his message (Acts 28:22), they gathered in greater numbers at his lodging to listen to him teach.

Paul used this opportunity to “witness”—a term that means to testify or give evidence about something true. He didn’t just share his opinions; he carefully laid out the truth of Jesus Christ using the Law of Moses and the Prophets, which make up the Old Testament. He spent an entire day explaining how Jesus fulfilled the promises of God, showing that Christianity was not a new or separate religion but the fulfillment of God’s covenant with Israel.

This verse highlights Paul’s passion for sharing the gospel. He spent the entire day teaching, showing his deep commitment to helping others see the truth. He wasn’t merely presenting facts—he was trying to persuade them, meaning he was making a heartfelt and reasoned appeal for them to believe in Jesus.

Historical Context

Paul was under house arrest in Rome, awaiting trial before Caesar. Even though he was a prisoner, he did not let that stop him from sharing the gospel.

At this time, Rome was the center of the world’s most powerful empire. Jewish communities were scattered throughout the city, and there was curiosity about this new movement of people following Jesus. Some Jewish leaders viewed Christianity as a dangerous teaching, while others were open to hearing more.

By using the Law of Moses and the Prophets, Paul was addressing his Jewish audience in a way they could understand. The Jewish people knew the Old Testament Scriptures, and Paul was showing them how Jesus fulfilled the prophecies about the Messiah.

Paul’s approach in Rome was consistent with his mission everywhere else—whenever he entered a new city, he first spoke to the Jews before turning to the Gentiles (Romans 1:16).

Theological Implications

This verse teaches that the gospel is deeply rooted in Scripture. Paul wasn’t inventing a new message—he was showing that Jesus was the fulfillment of God’s promises from the Old Testament.

It also emphasizes the importance of persuasion in sharing the gospel. Paul didn’t just state the facts; he engaged with his audience, explaining and reasoning with them. Christianity is not just about blind faith—it is a faith built on truth and evidence.

Additionally, this verse highlights the urgency of evangelism. Paul was a prisoner, yet he made the most of every opportunity to share the gospel. His example encourages believers today to use every circumstance to point others to Jesus.

Literary Analysis

The verse is structured in a way that builds intensity:

• “They arranged to meet Paul” – Shows that there was a real interest in hearing him speak.
• “Came in even larger numbers” – The crowd grew, showing that word was spreading.
• “He witnessed to them from morning till evening” – Demonstrates Paul’s commitment to teaching, even for long hours.
• “Explaining about the kingdom of God” – This phrase shows that Paul wasn’t just talking about Jesus in isolation; he was presenting the whole picture of God’s redemptive plan.
• “Tried to persuade them about Jesus” – Shows that this was not just an academic discussion. Paul wanted them to believe and be saved.

Biblical Cross-References

• Luke 24:27 – After His resurrection, Jesus explained how the Law and the Prophets pointed to Him.
• Acts 17:2-3 – Paul follows the same approach in Thessalonica, reasoning from the Scriptures to prove that Jesus is the Messiah.
• Romans 10:17 – “Faith comes from hearing the message, and the message is heard through the word about Christ.”
• Matthew 5:17 – Jesus declares that He came to fulfill the Law and the Prophets.

What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian

This verse reminds believers that sharing the gospel requires time, patience, and a deep understanding of God’s Word. Paul spent an entire day teaching and reasoning with his audience. This challenges Christians to be prepared to explain their faith thoughtfully and clearly.

It also shows that evangelism is not just about stating facts—it involves persuasion. This means addressing people’s doubts, answering their questions, and showing them how Jesus is the fulfillment of God’s promises.

Finally, Paul’s example encourages Christians to use every opportunity to share the gospel. Even under house arrest, Paul was actively witnessing. No matter where believers find themselves, they can still be a light for Christ.

How This Verse Relates to a Loving God

This verse reveals God’s love in the way He provides opportunities for people to hear the truth. Even in a place as unlikely as a prisoner’s house in Rome, God was bringing people together to hear the gospel.

God’s love is also seen in how He patiently reveals His plan through Scripture. He had been preparing for the coming of Jesus for generations, and now Paul was able to show His people how those promises had been fulfilled.

This verse also reflects God’s desire for all people to know Him. He does not force belief but invites people to listen, understand, and respond.

How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ

Paul’s approach here mirrors Jesus’ own teaching. Jesus often used the Old Testament Scriptures to reveal His identity, just as Paul did.

• In Luke 24:44-47, Jesus explains to His disciples that everything written in the Law of Moses, the Prophets, and the Psalms was fulfilled in Him.
• In John 5:39-40, Jesus tells the Jewish leaders that the Scriptures testify about Him, yet they refuse to come to Him for life.

Paul’s teaching about the kingdom of God is also significant. Jesus constantly preached about God’s kingdom, calling people to enter it by believing in Him (Mark 1:15).

Just as Jesus patiently taught His followers, Paul now does the same, pointing people to the truth that Jesus is the promised Savior.

Questions for Reflection and Discussion

1. What does this verse teach about the importance of knowing Scripture when sharing the gospel?
2. How can you be more intentional about explaining your faith to others?
3. Paul spent an entire day teaching about Jesus—how does this challenge your own dedication to sharing the gospel?
4. Have you ever had to persuade someone about Jesus rather than just tell them? How did it go?
5. How can you use your current situation—whether good or bad—as an opportunity to witness for Christ?

This verse is a powerful reminder that the gospel is meant to be shared with boldness, patience, and clarity. Like Paul, believers today are called to explain, persuade, and point others to the truth of Jesus Christ.