Acts 28:17-31 - Paul And The Jewish Community In Rome
17 three days after, Paul sent for the chief of the Jews: and when they were assembled, he said to them, "my brethren, tho' I have done nothing against the Jews, or against the customs of our fathers, I was made a prisoner at Jerusalem, and put into the hands of the Romans: 18 who, after my examination, would have discharg'd me, as having done nothing that was capital. 19 but the Jews opposing it, I was oblig'd to appeal to the emperor: not having however any design to accuse them. 20 for this reason I desir'd to see and talk with you; it being for the expectation of Israel that I am subject to this chain."
21 they reply'd, we have receiv'd no letter from Judea concerning you; nor have any of our brethren that are arrived, said any harm of you. 22 but we should be glad to know your sentiments: for as to this sect, we are sensible it is every where inveigh'd against.
23 Having therefore set him a day, they came in great numbers to his lodgings; where he explain'd and confirm'd the reality of the gospel-dispensation, from morning to night, enforcing what the writings of Moses and the prophets had affirm'd concerning Jesus. 24 some believed what he had said, but others did not believe:
25 so not being able to agree, they retir'd, upon Paul's having told them, that the holy spirit had very justly said to our fathers by the prophet Esaias, 26 "go to this people and say, hearing you shall hear, and shall not understand; and seeing ye shall see, and not perceive. 27 for the heart of this people is become gross, their ears are dull of hearing, and their eyes have they closed; lest they should see with their eyes, and hear with their ears, and understand with their heart, and be converted and I should heal them."
28 take notice therefore, that the offers of divine salvation are sent to the Gentiles, and they will receive them. 29 [ having said this, the Jews went out, warmly debating it among themselves.]
30 After this, Paul staid two whole years in a house he had hired, and gave access to all that visited him, 31 preaching the kingdom of God, and instructing them in all things relating to the Lord Jesus Christ, with the utmost freedom, without being molested.