16
And when we entered into Rome, Paul was allowed to stay by himself with the soldier who was guarding him.
Paul and the Jewish Community in Rome
17 Now it happened that after three days, he called together those who were the most prominent of the Jews. And [when] they had assembled, he said to them, "Men [and] brothers, [although] I had done nothing against [our] people or the customs of our fathers, from Jerusalem I was delivered [as] a prisoner into the hands of the Romans,
18
who, [when they] had examined me, were wanting to release [me], because there was no basis for an accusation [worthy] of death with me.
19
But [because] the Jews objected, I was forced to appeal to Caesar (not as [if I] had any [charge] to bring against my [own] people).
20
Therefore for this reason I have requested to see you and to speak with [you], for because of the hope of Israel I am wearing this chain!"
21
And they said to him, "We have received no letters about you from Judea, nor has any of the brothers come [and] reported or spoken anything evil about you.
22
But we would like to hear from you what you think, for concerning this sect it is known to us that it is spoken against everywhere."
23
And [when they] had set a day with him, many more came to him at his lodging place, to whom he was explaining from early in the morning until evening, testifying about the kingdom of God and attempting to convince them about Jesus from both the law of Moses and the prophets.
24
And [some] were convinced [by] what was said, but [others] refused to believe.
25
So being in disagreement with one another, they began to leave [after] Paul made one statement: "The Holy Spirit spoke rightly through the prophet Isaiah to your fathers,
26
saying, 'Go to this people and say, "{You will keep on hearing}
and will never understand, and {you will keep on seeing} and will never perceive.
27
For the heart of this people has become dull, and with [their] ears they hear with difficulty, and they have shut their eyes, lest they see with [their] eyes, and hear with [their] ears, and understand with [their] heart, and turn, and I would heal them." '
28
Therefore let it be known to you that this salvation of God has been sent to the Gentiles. They also will listen!"
30
So he stayed two whole years in his own rented house, and welcomed all who came to him,
31
proclaiming the kingdom of God and teaching the [things] concerning the Lord Jesus Christ with all boldness, without hindrance.