16 When we got into Rome proper, Paul was allowed to live by himself, with just a soldier guarding him.

17 After three days, he called together the leaders of the Jews in Rome, and when they’d all gathered he spoke to them, “Men, brothers, I have done nothing against my people or against our ancestral customs. I was taken prisoner in Yerusalem and handed over to the Romans 18 who, after examining me, wanted to release me because I had done nothing worthy of execution. 19 But in defending myself against the Jews there, I felt compelled to appeal to Caesar, although I myself had no complaint against the Jews. 20 So that was why I called for you and wanted to address you, because I am in chains for the sake of Israel’s hope—the messiah.”

21 “We haven’t received any correspondence here about you,” they answered. “Nor have any of our brothers from Yerusalem arrived here to report any crimes of yours. 22 But we would very much like to hear from you about your thinking, because we’ve certainly heard about this new sect because everyone is speaking out against it.”

23 Then they set a day when they could visit him where he was staying and so that from morning to evening he could explain about God’s kingdom and show them how Moses’ law and the prophets’ writings spoke about Yeshua. 24 Afterwards some were persuaded while others didn’t find it believable. 25 They argued back and forth, and as they were about to leave, Paul shared this final message, “The holy spirit spoke rightly through Isayah the prophet to your ancestors, saying:

26 Go to these people and tell them,

When you listen you will hear but not understand,

and when you look you will see but not perceive it.

27 Because these people’s minds have become dull

and they can barely hear with their ears

and they shut their eyes,

just in case their eyes might actually see,

and their ears might actually hear,

and they might understand with their minds,

and turn back to me

and then I would heal them.

28 So now let it be known to you all that the message of salvation from God has been sent out to non-Jews and they will listen.”

29 ◘ 30 Paul remained in his own rental accommodation in Rome for two whole years and welcomed everyone who went to see him, 31 telling them about God’s kingdom and boldly teaching about the master Yeshua without any hindrance.