Apostle Paul wrote a good portion of the New Testament. He had already faced much controversy and dissension from Jewish leaders when the Lord stood by him and said, “…Take courage! As you have testified about me in Jerusalem, so you must also testify in Rome.” Acts 23:11
Here are some of the adversities that Paul faced after the charge was given (Acts 23 – 28).
• A band of more than forty men took an oath not to eat or drink until they had killed Paul.
• Paul endures false accusations and is held captive while awaiting trial. These complaints against him could not be proven.
• Paul pleaded his case before a king and governors and was accused of having gone mad.
• Paul is bound in chains and put on a boat with other prisoners in route to Rome. The sailing was extremely dangerous and they encountered tempestuous winds and storms. For many days they did not see the sun or stars.
• The ship hit a sandbar causing the bow to be stuck and the stern to break in pieces.
• Upon reaching an island, Paul was bitten by a poisonous snake.
Perhaps Paul had missed it. Surely, he had not heard the directions correctly that he would bear witness of Christ in Rome. Actually, Paul was right where he was supposed to be even throughout the hardships and turmoil he endured.
Several seasons had passed from the time Paul received instructions that he would speak in Rome to when he declared the good news of the gospel in that city. Yet, Paul remained committed to his assignment amid the uncertainty and adversity he faced.
Where are you headed? What is your testify in Rome? What do you know for sure? Whatever the undertaking – don’t quit, don’t abort the mission – stay the course. You will get there.
