Picture a stormy sea and a shipwreck - this is how Acts 28 begins, with Paul and his companions finding refuge on the little island of Malta. What follows is a tale of survival, healing, and the power of faith.
The Reading: Acts 28
World English Bible1 When we had escaped, then they learned that the island was called Malta.
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2 The natives showed us uncommon kindness; for they kindled a fire, and received us all, because of the present rain, and because of the cold.
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3 But when Paul had gathered a bundle of sticks and laid them on the fire, a viper came out because of the heat, and fastened on his hand.
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4 When the natives saw the creature hanging from his hand, they said to one another, “No doubt this man is a murderer, whom, though he has escaped from the sea, yet Justice has not allowed to live.”
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5 However he shook off the creature into the fire, and wasn’t harmed.
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6 But they expected that he would have swollen or fallen down dead suddenly, but when they watched for a long time and saw nothing bad happen to him, they changed their minds, and said that he was a god.
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7 Now in the neighborhood of that place were lands belonging to the chief man of the island, named Publius, who received us, and courteously entertained us for three days.
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8 The father of Publius lay sick of fever and dysentery. Paul entered in to him, prayed, and laying his hands on him, healed him.
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9 Then when this was done, the rest also who had diseases in the island came, and were cured.
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10 They also honored us with many honors, and when we sailed, they put on board the things that we needed.
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11 After three months, we set sail in a ship of Alexandria which had wintered in the island, whose sign was “The Twin Brothers.”
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12 Touching at Syracuse, we stayed there three days.
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13 From there we circled around and arrived at Rhegium. After one day, a south wind sprang up, and on the second day we came to Puteoli,
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14 where we found brothers, and were entreated to stay with them for seven days. So we came to Rome.
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15 From there the brothers, when they heard of us, came to meet us as far as The Market of Appius and The Three Taverns. When Paul saw them, he thanked God, and took courage.
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16 When we entered into Rome, the centurion delivered the prisoners to the captain of the guard, but Paul was allowed to stay by himself with the soldier who guarded him.
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17 After three days Paul called together those who were the leaders of the Jews. When they had come together, he said to them, “I, brothers, though I had done nothing against the people, or the customs of our fathers, still was delivered prisoner from Jerusalem into the hands of the Romans,
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18 who, when they had examined me, desired to set me free, because there was no cause of death in me.
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19 But when the Jews spoke against it, I was constrained to appeal to Caesar, not that I had anything about which to accuse my nation.
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20 For this cause therefore I asked to see you and to speak with you. For because of the hope of Israel I am bound with this chain.”
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21 They said to him, “We neither received letters from Judea concerning you, nor did any of the brothers come here and report or speak any evil of you.
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22 But we desire to hear from you what you think. For, as concerning this sect, it is known to us that everywhere it is spoken against.”
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23 When they had appointed him a day, many people came to him at his lodging. He explained to them, testifying about God’s Kingdom, and persuading them concerning Jesus, both from the law of Moses and from the prophets, from morning until evening.
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24 Some believed the things which were spoken, and some disbelieved.
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25 When they didn’t agree among themselves, they departed after Paul had spoken one word, “The Holy Spirit spoke rightly through Isaiah, the prophet, to our fathers,
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26 saying, ‘Go to this people, and say, in hearing, you will hear, but will in no way understand. In seeing, you will see, but will in no way perceive.
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27 For this people’s heart has grown callous. Their ears are dull of hearing. Their eyes they have closed. Lest they should see with their eyes, hear with their ears, understand with their heart, and would turn again, and I would heal them.’
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28 “Be it known therefore to you, that the salvation of God is sent to the nations, and they will listen.”
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29 When he had said these words, the Jews departed, having a great dispute among themselves.
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30 Paul stayed two whole years in his own rented house, and received all who were coming to him,
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31 preaching God’s Kingdom, and teaching the things concerning the Lord Jesus Christ with all boldness, without hindrance.
What This Chapter Is Really Saying
Shipwreck and Kindness on Malta
After a perilous journey, Paul and the other survivors wash ashore on Malta. The locals welcome them with warmth, lighting a fire to fend off the cold and rain. Amidst gathering sticks for the fire, Paul is bitten by a venomous snake, and the islanders are ready to condemn him as a criminal. But when he shakes off the snake without harm, their perspective shifts, and they start to think he might be a god.
Healing the Sick
In Malta, Paul meets Publius, the chief man of the island, whose father is severely ill. Paul prays for him, lays his hands on him, and miraculously heals him. Word spreads, and soon others with illnesses come to Paul for help, all receiving healing. The grateful islanders honor Paul and his companions, providing everything they need for their next leg of the journey.
The Journey to Rome
After three months, they board a ship headed to Rome. They make several stops along the way, with Paul being welcomed by fellow believers in Puteoli. Their joy is palpable when Paul finally reaches Rome, where he is allowed to live in his own rented house under guard.
Preaching in Rome
In Rome, Paul wastes no time. He gathers the Jewish leaders and explains his situation. He asserts his innocence, but rather than facing condemnation, he wants to share the hope of Israel - the message of Jesus. Although some believe his teachings, others reject them, leading to a heated discussion. Paul concludes by quoting the prophet Isaiah, emphasizing that God's salvation is for everyone, not just the Jews.
Paul stays in Rome for two years, boldly preaching and teaching about Jesus Christ without hindrance. His resilience and dedication shine brightly in this bustling Roman city.
Why It Matters
Resilience in Challenges
Paul's journey teaches us the power of resilience. Despite hardships like shipwrecks and imprisonment, he continues to spread hope and healing. Life throws challenges at us, but like Paul, we can rise above and continue our mission.
The Power of Healing and Kindness
The kindness shown by the people of Malta reminds us of the impact of compassion. In a world that can often feel cold, small acts of kindness can create warmth and connection. Healing comes not just from physical cures but from the love and support we show one another.
Sharing Our Faith
Paul's determination to preach in Rome, despite opposition, encourages us to share our beliefs with conviction. Whether it's in our communities or through platforms like Sancta, where you can find a church near you, we are called to spread messages of hope and love.
Hope for All
Finally, Paul's message that salvation is for everyone is a reminder that faith knows no boundaries. It invites us to embrace diversity and reach out to those around us, sharing our stories and listening to others.
Coming Up Next: Romans 1
As we transition to the next part of the journey in Romans 1, Paul begins to unpack the foundation of faith, addressing both the powerful and the marginalized. What insights will he share about God's righteousness and our response? Join us as we explore these profound themes.