Imagine being shipwrecked on a mysterious island, only to find yourself surrounded by locals who treat you like family. This is the thrilling beginning of Acts 28, where Paul's journey takes an unexpected turn on the shores of Malta.
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
In Acts 28, Paul and the other survivors of a shipwreck land on the island of Malta. The locals greet them with remarkable kindness, lighting a fire to warm them from the cold and rain. As Paul gathers wood for the fire, a venomous snake bites him, causing the islanders to jump to conclusions, thinking he must be a murderer deserving of this fate. Yet, Paul shakes off the snake into the flames and suffers no harm, leading the locals to believe he is a god.
Healing a Chief's Father
During their stay, the chief official of the island, named Publius, welcomes Paul and his companions into his home. When Publius's father falls ill with fever and dysentery, Paul prays for him and heals him. This miraculous act draws many others on the island to seek Paul for healing, and they are cured as well. The islanders express their gratitude by providing for Paul and his friends as they prepare to continue their journey.
Arriving in Rome
After three months, Paul sets sail again, traveling to various cities before finally arriving in Rome. The local believers hear of his arrival and come to meet him, filling him with encouragement. Upon reaching Rome, Paul is allowed to live under guard, while still being free to meet with others. He quickly reaches out to the Jewish leaders, explaining his situation and sharing his hope in Israel.
Sharing the Message
Paul spends time teaching about God's Kingdom and Jesus, drawing from the Scriptures. His message divides the listeners; some believe while others reject his words. He boldly proclaims that God's salvation is now available to everyone, even those outside Israel. Finally, Paul spends two years in Rome, freely teaching and sharing the message of Jesus, even while in chains.
Why It Matters
Embracing Kindness
The people of Malta exemplify extraordinary kindness in a time of crisis. Sometimes, it's the unexpected gestures from strangers that make the biggest impact on our lives. We can learn to actively show kindness to those around us, especially in their moments of need.
Overcoming Obstacles
Paul's resilience is inspiring. Despite shipwreck, snake bites, and imprisonment, he remains focused on sharing hope and healing. This teaches us that our circumstances don't have to define us, and we can always find ways to contribute positively, even in tough situations.
Spreading the Message
Paul's experience reminds us that sharing our beliefs and stories can create a ripple effect. We never know who might be listening or how our words can influence others. If you're looking for a community to explore faith and connection, find a church near you through Sancta, a helpful resource for discovering local congregations.
Listening and Understanding
Lastly, Paul's interactions with the Jewish leaders emphasize the importance of listening. It's essential to engage with diverse perspectives and seek understanding in conversations, especially about faith. We might find that dialogue can lead to greater insight and connection.
Coming Up Next: Romans 1
As we transition into Romans 1, we'll discover Paul's powerful letter to the church in Rome. Get ready to delve into themes of faith, righteousness, and the gospel's profound message in the next part of our journey!