The Book of Acts does not end with Paul’s death or defeat. It ends with the gospel advancing unhindered, even though Paul is still in chains. Luke wants us to see that the mission of Christ, fired by the Holy Spirit, cannot be stopped—not by chains, not by governments, not by circumstances. The Holy Spirit empowered it at Pentecost, spread it across the Roman Empire in the first Christian generation, and continues to fuel it for the remainder of this age.

As we stand on the threshold of a new year, these final two verses in Acts call us to three commitments that shaped Paul’s ministry and must shape ours:

1. Take responsibility for the ministry God has given us.
2. Preach the kingdom of God in Jesus Christ.
3. Live and preach the gospel without holding back…