Unhindered”
When we were brought safely through,
We learned the island’s name was new —
Malta by the locals told,
Where kindness warmed against the cold.
They built a fire against the rain,
Welcomed strangers without disdain.
Paul gathered sticks with servant’s hand,
A viper fastened where he’d stand.
The people said, “Justice is near —
He escaped the sea, yet death is here.”
But he shook the creature in the flame,
Suffered no harm nor lasting pain.
They waited long to see him fall,
Then changed their minds before them all.
The father of Publius lay
Sick with fever day by day.
Paul went in and prayed with care,
Laid hands — the healing answered there.
Others came from all around,
Brought their sick and healing found.
They honored them before they sailed,
Supplied their needs; no lack prevailed.
Chorus
Through storm and chain, through sea and land,
The risen Lord upholds His plan.
No serpent’s bite, no empire’s hand
Can silence what He has commanded.
After three months they departed,
Alexandrian ship once charted,
Figurehead of twin gods shown,
To Syracuse and onward blown.
To Rhegium and then by breeze
To Puteoli by seas.
Brothers met them there with grace,
Seven days in fellowship’s place.
When word reached Rome of Paul’s approach,
Believers traveled from their posts —
Appius’ Forum and Three Taverns’ road,
To greet the servant bearing load.
Paul gave thanks and took new heart,
As God’s design would now impart.
In Rome he lived by guarded stay,
Yet freely welcomed day by day
All who came to hear his word,
Of Kingdom truth and Christ the Lord.
To Jewish leaders first he spoke,
Explained the hope for which he’d spoke.
From morning till the evening’s light,
He testified with all his might.
Some were convinced by what he said,
Others turned away instead.
He quoted Isaiah’s solemn line,
“Hearts grow dull and eyes grow blind.”
“Let it be known,” he then proclaimed,
“Salvation’s sent to Gentile lands —
They will listen to this Name.”
For two full years he stayed that way,
In rented house both night and day.
Proclaiming boldly without chain
The Kingdom and the Savior’s Name.
Chorus
Unhindered still the Gospel runs.
Through guarded door and setting sun.
The book may close, the mission stands —
The risen Lord commands.
