In Prison

Paul is in prison. He had come to this city in response to a vision he had experienced of a man of the area asking him to come over and help. On arrival in the city he had gone to the local place of worship, as was his normal practice and engaged in conversation with those who were there. Some of them were convinced by what he had to say, and invited him, and his companions to stay with them. But Paul is one of those blokes who just can't seem to stay out of trouble. He ends up getting into conflict with some of the worthies of the town and thrown into this prison.

Paul is in prison, but as he repeats again and again in his letters, rejoice in all circumstances. And he walks the walk, or in this case sings the songs. As he and his companions praise God, there is an earthquake, the prison doors burst open and they are free to go. The Jailer rushes in, ready to kill himself because he thinks that the prisoners will have escaped, but Paul stops him, “Do not harm yourself, we are all here.” The grateful Jailer brings Paul out and asks what he must do to be saved. He comes to believe in Jesus, and he and his household are baptised that night.

The next day the city authorities release Paul and his companions, but ask them to leave the city, which after a few encouraging words to the fledgling believers, they do.

Continued here...