I. INTRODUCTION
A. Paul was a prisoner in Rome, even though he was kept in his own quarters. While he was obviously given some privileges that were probably not afforded most Roman prisoners, it is likely that he was shackled to one or two guards for the duration of this imprisonment, (compare passages such as: Acts 28:16; Phil. 1:13; Col. 4:18; Eph. 6:20).
B. What practical lessons can we learn from Paul's imprisonment? First, we see that his desire to come to Rome had been fulfilled. Second, let us notice how he kept himself employed while imprisoned. Third, we will examine his attitude in bonds. Finally, we will notice the far-reaching consequences of his imprisonment.
II. DISCUSSION
A. Paul's desire to come to Rome and preach the Gospel there had been accomplished.
1. Rom. 1:9-12 In accordance with this wish, the Lord already assured him twice in visions that he would bring the good news to Rome.
2. Paul's purpose for wanting to come to Rome was not personal, but to conform to the purpose of the Lord set forth for all the Apostles: "that repentance and remission of sins should be preached among all nations...," (Lk. 24:46,47).
a. Then, as now, the hubs of influence were the great cities, the population centers. These cities were the birthplaces of the habits, opinions, and laws, which regulated the views and customs of the entire known world.
b. The church had already been founded in Rome, (Rom. 16:3-15). They had Paul's epistle. The letter to the Romans is "the most complete and profound exposition of the doctrinal system of the Christian religion..." we have in our possession. Yet, he longed to be with them, to instruct them in person.
3. He came to Rome in a manner which he did not originally anticipate, and which was contrary to his plans, (Rom. 15:24).
B. What did Paul do while imprisoned in Rome? Many of us, in similar circumstances, might have spent our time waiting for our trial worrying about ourselves. Not Paul. How was Paul able to continue his life's work, even though in bonds?
1. The church at Rome The Christians in Rome had already come out into the highway to conduct Paul to Rome, (Acts 28:15). Paul's situation actually worked to strengthen these brethren, (Phil. 1:14).
2. His own countrymen He invited them to his quarters to hear his side of the charges against him, ( Read: Acts 28:16-20). He preached the Gospel to them, and as always, some accepted it, but most rejected it.
3. His influence among the Roman people while his only opportunity to preach was to those that came to his quarters, there are incidental scriptures that show us that the Gospel was preached by Paul to the Romans, and converts were made from among them, (Phil. 1:12,13; 4:22).
4. "the care of all the churches," (2 Cor. 11:28) It is most likely that Paul penned four of his letters while imprisoned in Rome. These would include: Philemon, Colossians, Ephesians, and Philippians. Taking time to compose these letters while under these circumstances point to Paul's unswerving desire to do good, his unselfishness, and his interest in the general condition of the church world-wide.
C. What can we learn from Paul's behavior while incarcerated?
1. His forbearance towards the Jews and those who perverted his teachings. Even though his imprisonment was because of the Jews, he held no ill will towards his countrymen in Rome. Others had supposed they could "steal Paul's thunder" while he was imprisoned, but he even rejoiced in that, (Phil. 1:16-18).
2. He held no grudges against anyone concerning his situation, believing instead that his tribulations had been for the sake of the Gospel, (Phil. 1:12).
D. What do the church and the world in general owe to the imprisonment of Paul?
1. The epistles penned by Paul during his imprisonment are invaluable to the church, and are worth more, to us as Christians, than all the sufferings of the Apostle.
2. Yet, the world needs to see that oppressions, wrongs, and trials will never stop the Gospel. Even in prison, Paul let his light so shine as to illuminate the church of Christ and through the church, the world as a whole!
QUESTIONS FOR DISCUSSION
1. Is it possible that God answers prayers in ways that we never imagine? Think of an example in your life.
2. If a beloved Christian was being brought to our community in chains, would we go out to greet him as the Roman Christians did Paul?
3. Imagine yourself as a member of the church at Philippi. How would you feel upon hearing Paul's prison epistle read before the congregation?
4. Compare Paul's attitude toward his "enemies" as portrayed in this lesson, with the teachings of Christ in the Sermon on the Mount.