Picture Paul under house arrest in Rome, awaiting his hearing before the emperor. Paul was under constant guard and chained to the soldier on duty. Roman sources demonstrate that renting quarters and being chained to a soldier were typical protocol for a prisoner under house arrest.
“When we arrived in Rome, Paul was permitted to have his own private lodging, though he was guarded by a soldier.(Acts 28:16)

Imagine the moment when Paul looks over at the guard on shift. Specifically fixated on the Centurion’s uniform, he becomes inspired. He notices each piece of the Roman guard’s armor has an instructional application for spiritual warfare. The strategy for supernatural battle readiness and protection for all Christ followers is revealed to him. Mind blowing!

“Finally, grow powerful in union with the Lord, in union with his mighty strength! Use all the armor and weaponry that God provides, so that you will be able to stand against the deceptive tactics of the Adversary. For we are not struggling against human beings, but against the rulers, authorities and cosmic powers governing this darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realm. So take up every piece of war equipment God provides; so that when the evil day comes, you will be able to resist; and when the battle is won, you will still be standing. Therefore, stand! Have the belt of truth buckled around your waist, put on righteousness for a breastplate, and wear on your feet the readiness that comes from the Good News of shalom. Always carry the shield of trust, with which you will be able to extinguish all the flaming arrows of the Evil One. And take the helmet of deliverance; along with the sword given by the Spirit, that is, the Word of God; as you pray at all times, with all kinds of prayers and requests, in the Spirit, vigilantly and persistently, for all God’s people.” (Ephesians 6:10-20)

For two whole years Paul stayed there in his own rented house and welcomed all who came to see him. He proclaimed the kingdom of God and taught about the Lord Jesus Christ—with all boldness and without hindrance! (Acts 28:30-31)

“And pray for me, too, that whenever I open my mouth, the words will be given to me to be bold in making known the secret of the Good News, for which I am an ambassador in chains. Pray that I may speak boldly, the way I should. Grace be to all who love our Lord Yeshua the Messiah with undying love.” (Ephesians 6:24)

Paul encouraged new converts as well as mature believers, by setting an example of the warriors surrendered life in Christ and eager death for the Gospel.

“For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain.” (Philippians 1:21)

Q: What is hindering you from a fully surrendered life in Christ?

Q: Are you covered in the armor of God, ready to battle for the Gospel – even unto death?

“In their trouble they cried to Adonai, and he rescued them from their distress. He led them from darkness, from death-dark gloom, shattering their chains. Let them give thanks to Adonai for his grace, for his wonders bestowed on humanity!” (Psalm 107:13-15)

Resource link: Paul and the Praetorian Guard – Drive Thru History Adventures