Acts 28:23
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Acts 28:23
23 And when they had appointed him a day, there came many to him into his lodging; to whom he expounded and testified the kingdom of God, persuading them concerning Jesus, both out of the law of Moses, and out of the prophets, from morning till evening.
Chapter Context
Acts 28 is a historical narrative chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of holiness, worship, creation. Written during the late first century CE (c. 80-85 CE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Chronicles Christianity's spread across the Roman Empire despite official and unofficial opposition.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-31: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it provides essential context for understanding God's covenant relationship with His people. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Acts and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Acts 28:23
23 And when they had appointed him a day, there came many to him into his lodging; to whom he expounded and testified the kingdom of God, persuading them concerning Jesus, both out of the law of Moses, and out of the prophets, from morning till evening.
Analysis
He expounded and testified the kingdom of God, persuading them concerning Jesus (ἐξετίθετο... πείθων)—Paul's method: exposition (careful explanation), testimony (personal witness), and persuasion (reasoned argument). His sources—both out of the law of Moses, and out of the prophets—grounded Christ in Scripture, not novel teaching. The timeframe—from morning till evening—indicates exhaustive, systematic presentation. Paul demonstrated that all Old Testament pointed to Jesus as Messiah and King. The 'kingdom of God' theme connected Jesus to Israel's royal-messianic expectations while transforming understanding of that kingdom's nature.
Historical Context
This marathon teaching session followed synagogue practices of extensive scriptural discussion. Paul's approach—proving Jesus from Torah and Prophets—remained his consistent evangelistic method with Jewish audiences (Acts 17:2-3).
Reflection
- How does Paul's all-day teaching session challenge modern assumptions about attention spans and serious Bible study?
- What does grounding the gospel 'in the law of Moses, and... the prophets' teach about Scripture's unity?
Word Studies
- Kingdom: βασιλεία (Basileia) G932 - Kingdom, reign
Cross-References
- Kingdom: Acts 19:8
- Word: Acts 18:28