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Chapter 52—Steadfast Unto the End This chapter is based on the Epistles Second Epistle of Peter. In the second letter addressed by Peter to those who had obtained “like precious faith” with himself, the apostle sets forth the divine plan for the development of Christian character. He writes: “Grace and peace be multiplied unto you…

Chapter 51—A Faithful Under-Shepherd This chapter is based on the First Epistle of Peter. Little mention is made in the book of Acts of the later work of the apostle Peter. During the busy years of ministry that followed the outpouring of the Spirit on the Day of Pentecost, he was among those who put…

Chapter 50—Condemned to Die During Paul’s final trial before Nero, the emperor had been so strongly impressed with the force of the apostle’s words that he deferred the decision of the case, neither acquitting nor condemning the accused servant of God. But the emperor’s malice against Paul soon returned. Exasperated by his inability to check…

Chapter 49—Paul’s Last Letter This chapter is based on the Second Epistle to Timothy. From the judgment hall of Caesar, Paul returned to his cell, realizing that he had gained for himself only a brief respite. He knew that his enemies would not rest until they had compassed his death. But he knew also that…

Chapter 48—Paul Before Nero When Paul was summoned to appear before the emperor Nero for trial, it was with the near prospect of certain death. The serious nature of the crime charged against him, and the prevailing animosity toward Christians, left little ground for hope of a favorable issue. Among the Greeks and Romans it…

Chapter 47—The Final Arrest Paul’s work among the churches after his acquittal at Rome, could not escape the observation of his enemies. Since the beginning of the persecution under Nero the Christians had everywhere been a proscribed sect. After a time the unbelieving Jews conceived the idea of fastening upon Paul the crime of instigating…

Chapter 46—At Liberty While Paul’s labors in Rome were being blessed to the conversion of many souls and the strengthening and encouragement of the believers, clouds were gathering that threatened not only his own safety, but also the prosperity of the church. On his arrival in Rome he had been placed in charge of the…

Chapter 45—Written From Rome This chapter is based on the Epistles to the Colossians and the Philippians. The apostle Paul early in his Christian experience was given special opportunities to learn the will of God concerning the followers of Jesus. He was “caught up to the third heaven,” “into paradise, and heard unspeakable words, which…

Chapter 44—Caesar’s Household The gospel has ever achieved its greatest success among the humbler classes. “Not many wise men after the flesh, not many mighty, not many noble, are called.” 1 Corinthians 1:26. It could not be expected that Paul, a poor and friendless prisoner, would be able to gain the attention of the wealthy…

Chapter 43—In Rome This chapter is based on Acts 28:11-31 and the Epistle to Philemon. With the opening of navigation, the centurion and his prisoners set out on their journey to Rome. An Alexandrian ship, the “Castor and Pollux,” had wintered at Melita on her way westward, and in this the travelers embarked. Though somewhat…