Paul states that government is God’s plan for society. Despite the different forms of government, Christians should respect and honour those in authority who are under God’s sovereignty. Christians should pay their taxes and pray for those in authority.

Paul addresses Christian community living which is of secondary importance but could cause division. he calls those who have need to have more rules as weak in terms of faith. He advises respect and understanding and a concern for one’s own behaviour rather than criticism of others.

Having encouraged the Roman Christians to be sensitive and kind to each other, Paul encourages them to have a long-term commitment to Jesus. He explains that the Old Testament is full of encouraging examples of faith. He traces the purpose of God to start with the Jewish nation and then to bring in the Gentiles to the faith.

Paul used many examples from the Old Testament to further his argument that God did not choose all Israel. All the way through their history a remnant remained faithful. Just like the clay cannot question the potter’s decision, we cannot question God’s decisions.

Paul is arguing against the rejection of the Jews. He uses an event in the life of Elijah to show that even in the darkest moments, there was a faithful remnant, the elect. Paul is an example of that as are the Apostles. God has made permanent covenants with his people that he cannot break.

Paul explains that God has a future purpose for the Jewish nation that has been hidden but has been revealed to Paul - that great numbers of Jews will believe in Jesus as the Messiah, once the number of Gentiles to believe is completed.

Paul is transported to Rome by ship but in adverse weather conditions. On changing ships, it was decided to keep going. A storm hits the ship and eventually it is wrecked but all the people safely land on Malta - just as God had promised Paul.

Herod Agrippa attacked the leadership of the Church. He executed James the brother of John and imprisoned Peter under heavy guard. An angel led Peter out of the prison. He visited the church who were praying together and then left Jerusalem. An angel carried out God's judgement on Herod Agrippa and he died.  

Peter travelled to the churches in Judea. In Lydda, he healed Ananias from paralysis and in Joppa, he raised Dorcas from death through the name of Jesus.

On his way to persecute the Christians in Damascus, Saul has a very dramatic experience of the risen Jesus. He is blinded and shocked and waits three days for Ananias to come and baptise him, pray with him and confirm his calling. Both Ananias and Saul experience visions.