WCF - THE ACTS OF THE APOSTLES
Study Number 43 Acts 27 v 1 - 26
4 Mar 1990


Paul's Free Mediterranean Cruise

The Story So Far

Paul was held prisoner by the Romans in Caesarea for more than two years. During this time the Jewish leaders who had accused him tried to have him moved back to Jerusalem. They planned a second time to ambush him on the way in order to kill him. But Paul demanded his right, as a Roman citizen, to be tried by Caesar himself. This presented Festus, the Roman Governor, with a problem, since Paul had done nothing wrong. Festus asked King Agrippa to listen to Paul's explanation of events. Paul used the opportunity to witness for Jesus. Festus and King Agrippa were uncomfortable as Paul tried to persuade them to follow Jesus, but agreed that Paul had done nothing to break the law. Nevertheless they decided he would have to go to Rome, since he had appealed to Caesar.

Paul of course knew he would be going to Rome. Jesus himself had told him he would travel there safely, so that he could tell people there the Good News of Jesus.

Last week we learned that Paul faced many difficulties - he was just a prisoner, he was brought in front of very important people, some of them thought he was stupid, he was all on his own, and he had no time to prepare. But even so he wasn't afraid of what they might say or do. He explained to them that they too ought to follow Jesus.

We too face difficulties, but we must never allow these to stop us witnessing for Jesus. We need to do just what Paul did: tell people what Jesus has done for us, and encourage them to follow Jesus too.

Paul Sails from Caesarea

The Voyage Becomes Difficult

A Terrible Storm Overtakes Them


Never think that following Jesus will always be a life of success, without setbacks, and without fear and despair. Sometimes the way He leads us is dark and stormy. We will only find strength and courage by keeping close to Jesus, listening for His voice, and trusting Him. And through it all we can encourage others to trust Him too.

Copyright © S P Townsend

Copyright © S P Townsend