Definition: Preaching the kingdom of God, and teaching those things which concern the Lord Jesus Christ, with all confidence, no man forbidding him.
Explanation: Okay, let's break down this verse from Acts 28:31. It’s a really important and powerful statement about how Paul is living his life. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: Basically, Paul is focusing on sharing the good news of God’s kingdom and teaching about Jesus. Let's unpack that a little further: “Preaching the kingdom of God…” – This refers to the idea of God’s plan for the world. The “kingdom of God” isn’t just a physical place; it represents God’s rule, peace, and justice. It’s about how God wants things to be in the whole world. “and teaching those things which concern the Lord Jesus Christ…” – Paul is specifically emphasizing that he's teaching about Jesus – God’s son, who is the central figure of Christianity. He’s talking about everything related to Jesus: his teachings, his actions, and what it means to live a life according to him. “with all confidence…” – This is key! He’s not just talking about these things; he’s asserting them with conviction and certainty. It’s like saying, “I believe this is true!” “no man forbidding him.” – This is the most important part. Paul says that he's free to speak about Jesus without anyone stopping him or hindering his message. He's not afraid to share what he believes and teaches. In short, this verse means Paul is a passionate advocate for God’s kingdom and Jesus Christ. He’s sharing the good news with confidence and openness. Why is this important? This passage shows that Paul was incredibly effective in spreading his message. It highlights his dedication to sharing the truth about Jesus and his belief in God's plan. It also suggests a dynamic relationship where he isn't afraid to speak out. --- Do you want me to: Explain another part of this verse? Give you some examples of how Paul used to teach about Jesus? Discuss the significance of this verse in the context of the early church?