ACTS 28:17–22
PAUL MEETS THE JEWISH LEADERS IN ROME AND EXPLAINS HIS MISSION
Text – Acts 28:17–22
17 After three days he called together the leaders of the Jews. When they had gathered, he said to them, “My brothers, although I had done nothing against our people or the customs of our ancestors, I was handed over as a prisoner from Jerusalem into the hands of the Romans.
18 After trying my case the Romans wanted to release me, because they found no grounds for the death penalty.
19 But when the Jews objected, I was forced to appeal to Caesar, not that I had any charge to bring against my nation.
20 For this reason, therefore, I have asked to see you and speak with you, for it is on account of the hope of Israel that I wear these chains.”
21 They replied to him, “We have received no letters from Judea about you, nor has any of the brothers who came here reported or spoken anything evil about you.
22 But we should like to hear from you what you have to say, for about this sect we know that everywhere it is spoken against.”
Historical and Jewish Context
Rome had a well-established Jewish community, organized with recognized leaders. Paul follows his consistent missionary pattern of engaging Jewish leaders first. His reference to “the hope of Israel” situates Christianity firmly within Jewish eschatological expectation—especially belief in the resurrection. The Jewish leaders’ neutrality reflects Rome’s distance from Jerusalem’s internal disputes. Their awareness of Christianity as a “sect spoken against” reveals the growing tension and misunderstanding surrounding the early Church.
Catholic Theological Perspective
Paul presents himself not as an opponent of Judaism but as a witness to its fulfillment in Christ. His chains are a testimony, not a shame, because they are borne for the hope promised by God. Dialogue is marked by respect and openness, showing the Church’s commitment to reasoned proclamation. Even at the center of the empire, the Gospel is first addressed to God’s chosen people, affirming continuity between Israel and the Church.
Parallels in Scripture
Acts 13:46 – Gospel first to the Jews
Romans 9:4–5 – The promises to Israel
Luke 24:44–47 – Fulfillment of Scripture
2 Timothy 2:9 – The Word not chained
Isaiah 52:7 – Good news proclaimed
Key Terms
Leaders of the Jews – Dialogue with Israel
Hope of Israel – Resurrection promise
Chains – Witness through suffering
Appeal to Caesar – Legal necessity
Sect spoken against – Misunderstood faith
Hear from you – Openness to truth
Catholic Liturgical Significance
Acts 28:17–22 is proclaimed during the Easter Season, underscoring the Resurrection as the core of Christian hope and the respectful proclamation of the Gospel.
Conclusion
Acts 28:17–22 shows Paul continuing his mission with clarity and charity. Even in chains, he proclaims the hope of Israel, inviting dialogue and bearing witness that the Gospel fulfills God’s ancient promises.
Reflection
Do I understand my faith as rooted in God’s promises?
How do I engage in dialogue with those who misunderstand Christianity?
Am I willing to witness to hope even through personal difficulty?
Prayer
God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, deepen my faith in the hope You have fulfilled in Christ. Give me wisdom, humility, and courage to speak the truth with love, even when it is questioned or opposed. Amen.