STEVE MORGAN
In literature, there is a well-known idea called “the power of the unfinished story.” Some authors choose not to end their stories neatly. Instead, they stop suddenly or leave parts untold. This invites readers to think, imagine, and even participate by wondering how the story might continue. Writers like Edgar Allan Poe and Jane Austen left stories incomplete. The Lighthouse and Sanditon are examples. But this idea does not only belong to literature. The book of Acts in the New Testament ends in a similar way. It ends without closure. The author, Luke, leaves it open, as though the story must continue through those who follow Jesus today.
When Acts ends, the Apostle Paul is under house arrest in Rome. His journey to that point is full of danger and faith. In chapter 27, Paul and other prisoners survive a shipwreck after their vessel breaks apart near an unknown island. Soldiers plan to kill the prisoners to stop them from escaping, but the Roman officer Julius prevents it, moved by his respect for Paul. Everyone reaches land safely. It happened exactly as God had told Paul in a vision. The group finds themselves on the island of Malta, where local people welcome them kindly and build a fire to warm them.
As Paul helps by gathering sticks, a viper bites his hand. The locals assume he must be guilty of a terrible crime and that the gods are punishing him. But when he shows no sign of harm, their opinion changes. But now they now believe he is divine. It’s amazing how easily people’s views can shift when they lack a steady foundation. Paul’s survival, however, is not a matter of luck. It is one more sign that God’s presence remains with him through every hardship. Just as God was with him in prison, during the storm, and now on this island, He continues to guide His servant.
While on Malta, Paul meets a man named Publius, the chief official of the island. Publius welcomes the group into his home, but his father is seriously ill. Paul prays for him, lays his hands on him, and the man is healed. Soon, many others on the island come to Paul for healing, and God restores them too. In each case, are we not shown that He is with us? Though not every believer experiences miracles, God still makes Himself known, often through quiet assurance, timely words, or the encouragement of others.
After three months on Malta, Paul and the others set sail again. When they arrive in the Italian port of Puteoli, they meet fellow believers who invite them to stay for seven days. These Christians, guided by the Holy Spirit, offer kindness to strangers they have never met. Their warmth gives Paul the strength he needs for the rest of his journey. Consider how deeply Christians depend on each other for encouragement. Faith grows stronger in fellowship. Even a prayer, a word, or a small act of care can lift another person when life feels heavy.
As Paul nears Rome, more believers come out to meet him. They travel from nearby towns along the famous Roman road, the Appian Way, to greet him. Seeing them, Paul thanks God and gains new courage. When he finally reaches Rome, Paul is placed under house arrest but is allowed to rent his own space and welcome visitors freely. Even in chains, he continues to preach about the kingdom of God and to teach about Jesus Christ. His voice cannot be silenced.
Paul’s first visitors are Jewish leaders from the local synagogues. He explains why he was arrested and shares the message of Jesus as the promised hope of Israel. The leaders admit they have not received reports about Paul personally, but they have heard about “this group” of followers of Jesus, and that they are, “spoken against everywhere.” We see this today. Christianity has faced rejection and misunderstanding. The message of Christ was not popular then, and it is not always popular now. Yet, as Jesus said, “If the world hates you, remember that it hated me first.” (John 15:18) True faith is not measured by public approval but by steadfast trust in God.
Paul continues to teach from morning until evening. Some listeners believe his message, but others turn away. Quoting the prophet Isaiah, Paul explains that some hearts have grown hard and refuse to see or hear the truth. He then declares that the message of salvation will go to the Gentiles, who will listen. The story of Acts closes with Paul still in his rented home, still teaching about Jesus “with all confidence, no one stopping him.”
Luke ends the book without resolution. We are not told what happens next. We don’t know whether Paul stands trial, whether he is released, or even how his life ends. This unfinished ending may be deliberate. It suggests that the story of God’s work through His people is not over. The acts of the early apostles were only the beginning. The work of the Holy Spirit continues through every believer who carries the message of Jesus into the world. Each of us adds a line to the unfinished story.
Could it be that the book of Acts remains open because the mission of the Church is still unfolding, and we are part of it?
For I am confident of this very thing, that He who began a good work among you will complete it by the day of Christ Jesus.
Philippians 1:6
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