Outline of Paul’s Fourth Journey —Jerusalem to Rome as a prisoner
This is our fourth lesson on Paul's journeys. His fourth journey was from Jerusalem to Rome. He made this journey as a prisoner. Between the third missionary journey and the journey to Rome, Paul is in Jerusalem and Caesarea. The book of Acts devotes six chapters to this troubled prelude to Paul's journey to Italy, and another two chapters to the journey itself.
Paul’s Troubles in Jerusalem and Caesarea
1. In Jerusalem Paul had a meeting with James and the elders (Acts 21:18-26).
2. Paul was caused trouble by those Jews who opposed Christianity (Acts 21:27-40).
3. Paul told his story publicly and nearly got flogged (Acts 28).
4. He went on trial and was escorted to Caesarea (Acts 23:1-35).
5. He was imprisoned in Caesarea and went before Felix (Acts 24).
6. When he appeared before Festus he appealed to Caesar (Acts 25).
7. Paul next appeared before Agrippa (Acts 26).
8. After that, as a prisoner, he begins the voyage to Italy (Acts 27:1-2).
The Journey to Rome
1. Caesarea to Sidon, then under Cyprus to the Asian Coast at Myra (Acts 27:1-5).
2. Along the coast above Rhodes then south in danger beneath Crete (Acts 27:1-15).
3. The ship is severly storm tossed. An angel encourages Paul. The ship is driven by Clauda to Malta [Melita] where it is wrecked but no life is lost (Acts 27:16-44).
4. On Malta Paul is bitten by a viper yet suffers no ill. He then does many miraculous healings (Acts 28:1-10).
5. After 3 months they sail to Syracuse Sicily, then to Rhegium on the toes of Italy, then to Puteoli a port near Rome (Acts 28:11-14).
6. Along the road to Rome Paul is met by fellow Christians who encourage him (Acts 28:15).
7. Once in Rome Paul is allowed to have his own lodging with the soldier guarding him. He is able to have many guests to whom he preaches the gospel. This lasted two years (Acts 28:16-31).