16 And when we entered Rome, Paul was aallowed to stay by himself, with the soldier who was guarding him.
Paul’s Ministry in Rome
17 And it happened that after three days Paul called together those who were athe leading men of the Jews, and when they came together, he began saying to them, “bBrothers, cthough I had done nothing against our people or dthe customs of our fathers, yet I was delivered as a prisoner from Jerusalem into the hands of the Romans. 18 And when they had aexamined me, they bwere willing to release me because there was cno ground for putting me to death. 19 But when the Jews objected, I was forced to aappeal to Caesar, not that I had any accusation against my nation. 20 For this reason, therefore, I requested to see you and to speak with you, for I am wearing athis chain for bthe sake of the hope of Israel.” 21 And they said to him, “We have neither received letters from Judea concerning you, nor have any of athe brothers come here and reported or spoken anything bad about you. 22 But we desire to hear from you what you think; for concerning this asect, it is known to us that bit is spoken against everywhere.”
23 And when they had set a day for Paul, they came to him at ahis lodging in large numbers; and he was explaining to them by solemnly bbearing witness about the kingdom of God and trying to persuade them concerning Jesus, cfrom both the Law of Moses and from the Prophets, from morning until evening. 24 aAnd some were being persuaded by the things spoken, but others were not believing. 25 And when they disagreed with one another, they began leaving after Paul had spoken one word, “The Holy Spirit rightly spoke through Isaiah the prophet to your fathers, 26 saying,
‘aGo to this people and say,
“bYou will keep on hearing, but will not understand;
And you will keep on seeing, but will not perceive;
27 aFor the heart of this people has become dull,
And with their ears they scarcely hear,
And they have closed their eyes;
Lest they might see with their eyes,
And hear with their ears,
And understand with their heart and return,
And I heal them.”’
28 Therefore let it be known to you that athis salvation of God was sent bto the Gentiles—they will also hear.” 29 [When he had spoken these words, the Jews departed, having a great dispute among themselves.]
30 And he stayed two full years in his own rented quarters and was welcoming all who came to him, 31 apreaching the kingdom of God and teaching concerning the Lord Jesus Christ bwith all confidence, unhindered.