Sep 9 — Acts 28

One Reply to “Sep 9 — Acts 28”

1. We read the final chapter in the book of Acts: Paul’s journey to Rome concludes via the beaches of Malta. The islanders must have been an interesting bunch, certainly pagan, but definitely kind. “The islanders showed us unusual kindness” (Acts 28:2). They were quick to judge Paul a murdered when the viper latched onto his hand, yet quick to consider him a god when he flicked the snake into the fire and went on as if nothing happened (28:4-6). Even the chief official welcomed Paul and his friends into their home. Here Paul heals his father then “the rest of the sick on the island came and were cured” (28:9). Not terribly surprising based on the little we’re told about these natives. What is missing is the statement that many received Christ and were baptized…we don’t see that here. Yet we find much written about Christianity beginning as a result of Paul’s visit. In fact, the major bay of Malta is called St Paul’s Bay. Interesting. Reminds me of the parable of the sower–scatter the seeds!

   Paul finally arrives at Rome, well the port on the Bay of Naples, Puteoli. I emailed my friend, a retired Navy Captain who loves these two chapters and asked him for his thoughts:

   “We had a chance to walk a part of the path that supposedly Paul took to Rome in this passage from Naples to Rome and to see the 2000 yr old amphitheater where he reportedly preached upon landing in Puteoli (local legend, not in the bible). Quite an experience. In any case the bottom line on Acts 27/28 for me is the unbelievable sovereignty of our mighty God. His sovereign will is done regardless of the steps…. or mis-steps of men. It often looks strange from our perspective but not from his. Acts 27/28 may be the supreme example of this in that it seems to me that sometimes God sends a shipwreck to save us from the storm!” — Terry Wichert

   Thanks Terry and Susan for your service here and for your insight on this section of scripture!

   Paul gets his day in court because, after all they no doubt heard, they wanted “to hear what your views are, for we know that people everywhere are talking against this sect” (28:22). Paul took great advantage of the situation. “He witnessed to them from morning till evening, explaining about the kingdom of God…Some were convinced by what he said, but others would not believe” (28:23,24).

   And so the pattern continues today: some will believe and some will not. Our job is to preach the Gospel through our lives, words, deeds and with our love for God and our neighbors. Lord help me to do that today and may all the honor and glory be yours forever!

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