Then they said to him, "We neither received letters from Judea concerning you, nor have any of the brethren who came reported or spoken any evil of you. But we desire to hear from you what you think; for concerning this sect, we know that it is spoken against everywhere." So when they had appointed him a day, many came to him at his lodging, to whom he explained and solemnly testified of the kingdom of God, persuading them concerning Jesus from both the Law of Moses and the Prophets, from morning till evening. And some were persuaded by the things which were spoken, and some disbelieved. Acts 28:21-24

Though news travels fast in our day, maybe not so much in theirs! The Jewish leaders in Rome knew about the “Christian” issue, but not about Paul’s legal affairs. They were willing to hear his side of the matter.

“Many” came to the place where Paul was staying while under house arrest. There, Paul preached Christ and the gospel. Following Jesus’ example in Luke 24:27, he began sharing the gospel with “the Law of Moses and the Prophets.” By doing this, he made it clear that Christianity was nothing new. This was especially important, considering Paul’s audience was steeped in the Old Testament scriptures.

The result was that some believed and some did not. This is the usual case. We should be grateful when people believe, but not surprised when some do not believe. Though we should be as clear and as convincing as we can be, we must bear in mind that only the Holy Spirit can change people’s hearts, converting non-believers into believers.

So let us share Christ and the gospel with all who will listen, having full assurance that God will save those for whom Christ died!