When Paul was under guard traveling to be examined by Caesar, he was put under the charge of the centurion Julius. When they make port, Julius allows Paul to go ashore and visit the church and be ‘refreshed’ by them (Acts 27:3). The very next verse, Paul is back on the boat setting sail for the next port.

This struck me as fascinating.

The 26 chapters of Acts leading up to this one are filled with Paul and the other Apostles narrowly evading capture, sometimes in crazy ways. Like being lowered out of a window in a basket.

Now, it doesn’t say it, but I’d imagine that Julius probably had a guard on Paul as he went ashore. But, even under the watchful eye of a guard, this was probably the best of opportunities to escape and continue his journeys preaching the Gospel. Especially with the help of the Brothers who were there.

But, of course, he didn’t escape. As far as our text is concerned, he didn’t even try. He most likely left peacefully, met the Church, and returned peacefully in a reasonable amount of time. But why?

Respect for his authorities, probably. Concern for the church which he was visiting, probably. But I think he was also convinced that in his chains, God would use him in greater ways than he would with his freedom. In his chains he could speak to Caesar and the high officials. He could make converts of the guards. He could constantly share his testimony of God’s grace in his life.

This is beautiful to me. This is something I’d like to learn to emulate.