Acts 28 tells a fascinating story about resilience, divine intervention, and the unstoppable spread of the Gospel. After surviving a harrowing shipwreck on his way to Rome, Paul and his companions wash up on the island of Malta. This chapter demonstrates how even in dire circumstances, God’s plan continues to unfold in unexpected ways.
Upon landing on Malta, Paul and the others are met with kindness by the islanders. The people build a fire for the shipwreck survivors, offering warmth in the cold, rainy weather. But as Paul tends to the fire, a viper emerges from the heat and bites him on the hand. The locals, thinking this is an act of divine justice, believe that Paul is fated to die from the bite. They assume he must have committed some grave crime to survive the sea only to be killed by a snake. However, Paul calmly shakes off the snake, and nothing happens to him.
This miraculous event amazes the people of Malta. Their initial judgment of Paul shifts dramatically. When he doesn’t suffer any harm from the bite, they begin to view him as a god. This moment reveals how quickly perceptions can change, but more importantly, it showcases the power of God’s protection. Paul’s unwavering faith, even in life-threatening circumstances, provides a powerful testament to God’s care and provision.
As the story continues, Paul’s impact on the island grows. The chief of the island, Publius, invites Paul and his companions into his home. Publius’ father is ill with fever and dysentery, but Paul prays for him and heals him. This act of healing sparks a wave of miracles on the island, with many others coming to Paul for healing. His ministry on Malta becomes a testament to God’s healing power and the spread of the Gospel, even in unexpected places.
After three months on Malta, Paul and his group finally leave the island on a ship bound for Rome. The ship, interestingly, has the figureheads of Castor and Pollux, the twin gods of Greek and Roman mythology. This small detail highlights how different beliefs coexisted in the ancient world, yet Paul’s mission remained focused on spreading the message of Jesus Christ.
Upon arriving in Rome, Paul is placed under house arrest, but his confinement does not stop his ministry. For two years, he welcomes visitors into his home, preaching the Kingdom of God with boldness. Despite his status as a prisoner, Paul continues to fulfill his mission, showing that no earthly power can hinder God’s plan.
Acts 28 concludes with Paul proclaiming the Gospel in Rome, a place he longed to visit. His journey—filled with shipwrecks, snake bites, and imprisonment—serves as a reminder that even when life takes unexpected and difficult turns, God’s purpose will prevail. Paul’s steadfast faith and determination to share the Gospel, regardless of his circumstances, inspire believers to trust in God’s plans, no matter how uncertain the path may seem.
In the end, Acts 28 leaves us with a powerful message: no trial is too great, and no situation is too hopeless when we trust in God’s timing and purpose.
