RE Verse reading–Acts 28:17-31 (day seven)
“It is because of the hope of Israel that I am bound with this chain.” (vs 20) Paul is careful here. He does not to be misunderstood. He has not done anything against the Jewish people or customs or ancestors. (see vs 17) Paul has nothing but HOPE for the Jewish people/nation, but his dream IS new and different! Israel’s hope is in Christ. Rather than retaining their separate status, they were to be included in a much larger reality–the church. Losing their uniqueness, they would receive a larger place. It was a trade that many were unwilling to make. How true of us! God has a wonderful place of blessing and service for us but we must die to the old life to embrace the new. “I have been crucified with Christ, nevertheless I live!” said Paul of his own experience. Lose privilege, gain power. Lose self, become servants. This is our hope as well.
