Acts 28

Acts 28 is the concluding chapter of the Book of Acts, detailing the final leg of Paul’s journey as a prisoner bound for Rome. This chapter covers his arrival on the island of Malta after a shipwreck, his interactions with the islanders, and the continuation of his journey to Rome where he preaches the gospel under house arrest. It highlights the unstoppable spread of the gospel despite physical and political barriers.

Acts 28:1-5 (NKJV)
Now when they had escaped, they then found out that the island was called Malta. And the natives showed us unusual kindness; for they kindled a fire and made us all welcome, because of the rain that was falling and because of the cold. 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. So 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 the sea, yet justice does not allow to live.” But he shook off the creature into the fire and suffered no harm.

After the shipwreck, Paul and the other survivors find refuge on Malta, where the locals provide them with warm hospitality. An incident occurs where a snake bites Paul as he helps build a fire, leading the islanders to initially think of him as a cursed man. However, his survival without any harm changes their perception, potentially preparing them for the message of the gospel he embodies.

Acts 28:6 (NKJV)
However, they were expecting that he would swell up or suddenly fall down dead. But after they had looked for a long time and saw no harm come to him, they changed their minds and said that he was a god.

The islanders are astonished when Paul shows no signs of illness or death from the snakebite, leading them to reassess their initial judgment. This dramatic shift in perception—from a murderer to a deity—highlights the supernatural aspect of Paul’s mission and sets the stage for his ministry on the island.

Acts 28:7-10 (NKJV)
In that region there was an estate of the leading citizen of the island, whose name was Publius, who received us and entertained us courteously for three days. And it happened that the father of Publius lay sick with a fever and dysentery. Paul went in to him and prayed, and he laid his hands on him and healed him. So when this was done, the rest of those on the island who had diseases also came and were healed. They also honored us in many ways; and when we departed, they provided such things as were necessary.

Paul’s healing of Publius’s father cements his revered status among the Maltese. The miraculous healings attract attention from others on the island, leading to more healing ministries. The respect and honor shown to Paul and his companions underscore the impact of these divine acts, facilitating the provision of their needs by the grateful locals.

Acts 28:11 (NKJV)
After three months we sailed in an Alexandrian ship whose figurehead was the Twin Brothers, which had wintered at the island.

After a significant time of ministry and recovery, Paul and his companions continue their journey to Rome aboard another ship, symbolically marked by the figurehead of the Twin Brothers—possibly Castor and Pollux, symbols of protection at sea.

Acts 28:12-15 (NKJV)
And landing at Syracuse, we stayed three days. From there we circled round and reached Rhegium. And after one day the south wind blew, and the next day we came to Puteoli, where we found brethren, and were invited to stay with them for seven days. And so we went toward Rome. And from there, when the brethren heard about us, they came to meet us as far as Appii Forum and Three Inns. When Paul saw them, he thanked God and took courage.

Paul’s journey progresses smoothly with favorable winds, leading him from Syracuse to Rhegium, and then to Puteoli where he encounters fellow Christians. The warm reception and support from believers at various points along the way to Rome bolster Paul’s spirit, showcasing the expanding network of the early Christian community.

Acts 28:16 (NKJV)
Now when we came to Rome, the centurion delivered the prisoners to the captain of the guard; but Paul was permitted to live by himself with the soldier who guarded him.

Upon reaching Rome, Paul is placed under house arrest rather than in a prison, reflecting a degree of respect or trust. This unique custody arrangement allows him some freedom to continue his ministry, albeit under watch.

Acts 28:17-22 (NKJV)
And it came to pass after three days that Paul called the leaders of the Jews together. So when they had come together, he explained and solemnly testified of the kingdom of God, persuading them concerning Jesus from both the Law of Moses and the Prophets, from morning till evening. And some were persuaded by the things which were spoken, and some disbelieved. So when they did not agree among themselves, they departed after Paul had said one word: “The Holy Spirit spoke rightly through Isaiah the prophet to our fathers, saying, ‘Go to this people and say: “Hearing you will hear, and shall not understand; and seeing you will see, and not perceive; for the heart of this people has grown dull. Their ears are hard of hearing, and their eyes they have closed, lest they should see with their eyes and hear with their ears, lest they should understand with their heart and turn, so that I should heal them.”’ “Therefore let it be known to you that the salvation of God has been sent to the Gentiles, and they will hear it!” And when he had said these words, the Jews departed and had a great dispute among themselves.

Paul’s engagement with the Jewish leaders in Rome reflects his ongoing commitment to his people, despite the mixed reception. His use of scripture to explain and validate Jesus’ messianic role results in varied responses, reinforcing the theme of division and acceptance found throughout Acts. His message that salvation would also go to the Gentiles signifies the inclusive nature of the gospel.

Acts 28:23-31 (NKJV)
Then Paul dwelt two whole years in his own rented house, and received all who came to him, preaching the kingdom of God and teaching the things which concern the Lord Jesus Christ with all confidence, no one forbidding him.

Paul’s continued ministry in Rome, unfettered by his physical constraints, symbolizes the unstoppable spread of the gospel. His ability to preach and teach freely, even under house arrest, exemplifies the divine enabling that characterizes his ministry throughout Acts. This concluding note underscores the pervasive and enduring influence of the gospel despite opposition, geographic boundaries, or political constraints.