Ashore on Malta 1Once we were safely ashore, we learned that the island was called Malta. 2The islanders showed us extraordinary kindness. They kindled a fire and welcomed all of us because it was raining and cold. 3Paul gathered a bundle of sticks, and as he laid them on the fire, a viper, driven out by the heat, fastened itself to his hand. 4When the islanders saw the creature hanging from his hand, they said to one another, “Surely this man is a murderer. Although he was saved from the sea, Justicea has not allowed him to live.” 5But Paul shook the creature off into the fire and suffered no ill effects. 6The islanders were expecting him to swell up or suddenly drop dead. But after waiting a long time and seeing nothing unusual happen to him, they changed their minds and said he was a god. 7Nearby stood an estate belonging to Publius, the chief official of the island. He welcomed us and entertained us hospitably for three days. 8The father of Publius was sick in bed, suffering from fever and dysentery. Paul went in to see him, and after praying and placing his hands on him, he healed the man. 9After this had happened, the rest of the sick on the island came and were cured as well. 10The islanders honored us in many ways and supplied our needs when we were ready to sail. Paul Arrives in Italy 11After three months we set sail in an Alexandrian ship that had wintered in the island. It had the Twin Brothersb as a figurehead. 12Putting in at Syracuse, we stayed there three days. 13From there we weighed anchor and came to Rhegium. After one day, a south wind came up, and on the second day we arrived at Puteoli. 14There we found some brothers who invited us to spend the week with them. And so we came to Rome. 15The brothers there had heard about us and traveled as far as the Forum of Appiusc and the Three Tavernsd to meet us. When Paul saw them, he was encouraged and gave thanks to God. Paul Preaches at Rome 16When we arrived in Rome,e Paul was permitted to stay by himself, with a soldier to guard him. 17After three days, he called together the leaders of the Jews. When they had gathered, he said to them, “Brothers, although I have done nothing against our people or the customs of our fathers, I was taken prisoner in Jerusalem and handed over to the Romans. 18They examined me and wanted to release me, because there was no basis for a death sentence against me. 19But when the Jews objected, I was compelled to appeal to Caesar, even though I have no charge to bring against my nation. 20So for this reason I have called to see you and speak with you. It is because of the hope of Israel that I am bound with this chain.” 21The leaders replied, “We have not received any letters about you from Judea, nor have any of the brothers from there reported or even mentioned anything bad about you. 22But we consider your views worth hearing, because we know that people everywhere are speaking against this sect.” 23So they set a day to meet with Paul, and many people came to the place he was staying. He expounded to them from morning to evening, testifying about the kingdom of God and persuading them about Jesus from the Law of Moses and the Prophets. 24Some of them were convinced by what he said, but others refused to believe. 25They disagreed among themselves and began to leave after Paul had made this final statement: “The Holy Spirit was right when He spoke to your fathers through Isaiah the prophet: 26‘Go to this people and say, “You will be ever hearing but never understanding; you will be ever seeing but never perceiving.” 27For this people’s heart has grown callous; they hardly hear with their ears, and they have closed their eyes. Otherwise they might see with their eyes, hear with their ears, understand with their hearts, and turn, and I would heal them.’f 28Be advised, therefore, that God’s salvation has been sent to the Gentiles, and they will listen!”g 30Paul stayed there two full years in his own rented house, welcoming all who came to visit him. 31Boldly and freely he proclaimed the kingdom of God and taught about the Lord Jesus Christ. Footnotes: 4 a Greek Dike; that is, the Greek goddess of justice 11 b Greek Dioscuri; that is, the Greek gods Castor and Pollux 15 c The Forum of Appius was about 43 miles or 70 kilometers from Rome. 15 d The Three Taverns was about 35 miles or 57 kilometers from Rome. 16 e BYZ and TR include the centurion delivered up the prisoners to the captain of the barrack, but. 27 f Isaiah 6:9–10 (see also LXX) 28 g BYZ and TR include 29When he had said this, the Jews went away, disputing sharply among themselves. Berean Standard Bible (BSB) printed 2016, 2020, 2022, 2025 by Bible Hub and Berean.Bible. Produced in cooperation with Bible Hub, Discovery Bible, unfoldingWord, Bible Aquifer, OpenBible.com, and the Berean Bible Translation Committee. This text of God's Word has been dedicated to the public domain. Free downloads and unlimited usage available. See also the Berean Literal Bible and Berean Interlinear Bible. Bible Hub  Acts 28 Summary Ashore on MaltaVerses 1–6 – Safe on Malta, Sign of the Snake Verses 7–10 – Healing and Honor on the Island Verses 11–16 – Final Leg to Rome Verses 17–22 – First Meeting with the Jewish Leaders Verses 23–29 – A Day-Long Gospel Presentation Verses 30–31 – Two Years Unhindered Acts 28 is the final chapter of the book of Acts, narrating Paul's journey from the island of Malta to Rome. It recounts Paul's miraculous healing powers, his ministry in Rome, and ends with a powerful declaration of the Gospel being proclaimed freely. This chapter paints a vivid picture of God's sovereignty, protection, and the unstoppable nature of the Gospel. Malta: People, Language, and Hospitality • Luke calls the residents “barbaroi” (Acts 28:2), simply meaning non-Greek speakers. Archaeological finds confirm a Punic-Roman culture on Malta in A.D. 60. • Their “extraordinary kindness” mirrors the call of Hebrews 13:2—treating strangers as honored guests. • Modern tradition identifies St. Paul’s Bay as the landing site; soundings reveal a seabed fitting Luke’s depth clues (Acts 27:28). Divine Protection and the Viper “Paul shook the creature off into the fire and suffered no ill effects” (Acts 28:5). • Jesus had promised, “They will pick up snakes with their hands; and if they drink any deadly poison, it will not harm them” (Mark 16:18). • Luke 10:19 records Christ giving authority “to trample snakes and scorpions.” Paul’s survival showcases the Lord’s faithfulness and quiet power. Healing Ministry on the Island Paul’s prayer and laying on of hands echo Jesus’ pattern (Mark 1:30-31) and the apostles’ earlier healings (Acts 3:6-8; 9:34). Malta’s sick “were cured” (28:9), demonstrating that the gospel arrives with compassion, not merely words. Sea Route and Ports: Syracuse, Rhegium, Puteoli • A Roman grain ship with the figurehead “Castor and Pollux” (protectors of sailors) carries them the final 500 miles. • Syracuse’s harbor artifacts show constant traffic between Malta and Sicily. • Rhegium (modern Reggio Calabria) still experiences south winds that quickly drive ships up the coast, matching Luke’s detail of a two-day sail to Puteoli. • Puteoli’s remains include a vast mole and warehouses; its Jewish catacombs suggest the community that hosted Paul for a week. Roman Custody: Life in a Rented House • House arrest required the prisoner to pay rent and support the guarding soldier—likely chained at the wrist (cf. Acts 28:20, “this chain”). • Paul refers to “my chains for the gospel” in Ephesians 6:20 and Philippians 1:13. • The arrangement allowed visitors, explaining how the gospel spread “throughout the whole palace guard” (Philippians 1:13). Paul and the Jewish Leaders in Rome • Paul’s approach corresponds to Romans 1:16—“to the Jew first.” • He stresses continuity with Israel’s hope: “It is because of the hope of Israel that I am bound with this chain” (Acts 28:20). • Their mixed response mirrors earlier synagogue reactions (Acts 13:45–48; 17:4–5; 18:6). Isaiah 6:9-10—A Prophetic Diagnosis “Go to this people and say: ‘You will be ever hearing but never understanding…’” (Acts 28:26–27). • Jesus applied the same text to stubborn listeners (Matthew 13:14–15). • John 12:40 and Romans 11:8 echo the warning. Rejection is not unforeseen; Scripture anticipated it. Salvation to the Gentiles • Paul’s announcement (28:28) follows similar declarations in Pisidian Antioch (13:46) and Corinth (18:6). • It fulfills Old Testament hints such as Isaiah 49:6—“a light for the Gentiles.” • Ephesians 2:13–19, likely written during this very imprisonment, celebrates Gentile inclusion. Two Creative Years in Rome • During this period Paul writes Ephesians, Philippians, Colossians, and Philemon, each brimming with joy and assurance despite chains. • Guests likely included runaway slave Onesimus (Philemon 10) and fellow workers like Luke, Aristarchus, and Timothy (Colossians 1:1; 4:14). • The closing note “unhindered” (28:31) underscores that no chain can bind God’s word (2 Timothy 2:9). Archaeological Snapshots • Malta: first-century anchors retrieved near St. Paul’s Bay match Roman grain ships. • Appii Forum and Three Taverns: milestones along the Appian Way still stand; ancient inns nearby show how travelers met arriving prisoners. • Rome: the traditional site of Paul’s rented house lies near the Tiber Island; inscriptions confirm a military barracks nearby, suitable for a soldier-guard setup. Major Themes and Takeaways • God’s Providence: From storm to snake to Caesar’s capital, nothing derails the mission (Romans 8:28). • Bold Witness: Whether on a remote island or under imperial guard, Paul seizes every audience. • Scripture-Centered Evangelism: Paul reasons “from the Law of Moses and the Prophets,” modeling how the Old Testament points to Jesus. • Inclusion: The chapter seals Acts’ trajectory—from Jerusalem to “the ends of the earth” (Acts 1:8)—with the gospel fully open to all nations. • Perseverance: Paul’s calm under fire, literal and figurative, invites believers to trust the same Lord who brings them through every trial (2 Corinthians 4:8–9). Practical Applications • Show hospitality to strangers; it paves the way for gospel impact. • Expect God’s protection but keep serving—Paul gathered sticks before the miracle. • Use every circumstance, even restriction, as a platform for Christ. • Root gospel conversations in Scripture; it carries its own authority and power. • Remember that closed doors in one group often signal open doors in another—keep sowing the seed. Connections to Additional Scriptures God's Sovereignty Romans 8:28 - And we know that God works all things together for the good of those who love Him, who are called according to His purpose. Witnessing in Adversity Philippians 1:12-14 - Paul speaks of how his imprisonment has actually served to advance the Gospel. Miraculous Signs Mark 16:17-18 - Jesus speaks of signs that will accompany those who believe, including protection from harm. Perseverance James 1:2-4 - Encouragement to consider trials as joy, knowing they produce perseverance. Teaching Points Divine Protection and ProvisionAfter surviving a shipwreck, Paul and his companions find themselves on the island of Malta. Despite the dire circumstances, God provides for them through the kindness of the islanders. The islanders showed us extraordinary kindness. They kindled a fire and welcomed all of us because it was raining and cold (Acts 28:2). Miraculous Signs Paul is bitten by a viper but suffers no harm, which astonishes the islanders and opens the door for ministry. But Paul shook the creature off into the fire and suffered no ill effects (Acts 28:5). Healing Ministry Paul heals the father of Publius and many others on the island, demonstrating the power of God and the compassion of Christ. Paul went in to see him, and after praying and laying his hands on him, he healed him (Acts 28:8). Fulfillment of God's Promise Paul finally arrives in Rome, fulfilling God's promise that he would testify there. Despite being under house arrest, he continues to preach the Gospel boldly. He lived there two full years in his own rented house, welcoming all who came to visit him (Acts 28:30). Practical Applications Trust in God's SovereigntyEven in difficult circumstances, trust that God is in control and can use any situation for His glory. Be a Witness Wherever You Are Like Paul, use every opportunity to share the Gospel, regardless of your circumstances. Rely on God's Power Remember that God can work miracles and bring healing, both physically and spiritually, through His people. Persevere in Faith Continue to serve and trust God, even when facing trials or opposition. People 1. PaulThe apostle and central figure in Acts 28, Paul is under house arrest in Rome. He continues to preach the Gospel and teach about Jesus Christ. His journey to Rome and his interactions with others are pivotal in this chapter. 2. The islanders (Malta) The native people of Malta, referred to as "the islanders" in Acts 28:2, show unusual kindness to Paul and his companions after their shipwreck. The Greek term used here is "βάρβαροι" (barbaroi), which in this context refers to non-Greek-speaking people. 3. Publius The chief official of the island of Malta, mentioned in Acts 28:7. He hospitably welcomes Paul and his companions and hosts them for three days. His father is healed by Paul, which leads to others on the island being healed as well. 4. The father of Publius He is mentioned in Acts 28:8 as being sick with fever and dysentery. Paul prays for him and lays hands on him, resulting in his healing. 5. The Jewish leaders in Rome In Acts 28:17, Paul calls together the local Jewish leaders to explain his situation and to share the message of Jesus. They are described as being curious about Paul's teachings and the sect of Christianity. 6. The brothers (believers) in Rome In Acts 28:15, Paul is met by some brothers (fellow Christians) from Rome who come to meet him at the Forum of Appius and the Three Taverns. Their presence encourages Paul. Places 1. MaltaAfter being shipwrecked, Paul and the others on the ship find themselves on the island of Malta. The islanders show them unusual kindness, and Paul performs miracles there, including healing the father of Publius, the chief official of the island. The Greek term used for Malta is "Μελίτη" (Melitē). 2. Syracuse After leaving Malta, Paul and his companions sail to Syracuse, where they stay for three days. Syracuse was a significant city on the eastern coast of Sicily. 3. Rhegium From Syracuse, they sail to Rhegium, located on the southern tip of Italy. The Greek name for Rhegium is "Ῥήγιον" (Rhēgion). 4. Puteoli After Rhegium, they reach Puteoli, where they find some brothers and are invited to stay with them for seven days. Puteoli was an important port city in the Bay of Naples. 5. Rome The final destination of Paul's journey is Rome. Upon arrival, Paul is allowed to live by himself with a soldier to guard him. Rome, the capital of the Roman Empire, is where Paul continues his ministry under house arrest. Events 1. Paul and Companions Shipwrecked on MaltaAfter being shipwrecked, Paul and his companions find themselves on the island of Malta. The local inhabitants show them "extraordinary kindness" (Acts 28:2). The Greek word used here is "φιλανθρωπία" (philanthropia), indicating a love for humanity or kindness. 2. Paul Survives a Viper Bite While gathering sticks for a fire, a viper fastens onto Paul's hand. The islanders expect him to die, but he shakes the creature off into the fire and suffers no harm (Acts 28:3-5). This event demonstrates God's protection over Paul. 3. Paul Heals the Father of Publius Paul visits the chief official of the island, Publius, whose father is sick. Paul prays, lays hands on him, and heals him (Acts 28:7-8). The Greek word for "heal" is "ἰάομαι" (iaomai), meaning to cure or restore to health. 4. Many Others on the Island are Healed Following the healing of Publius' father, others on the island come to Paul and are healed (Acts 28:9). This further establishes Paul's role as a vessel of God's power and mercy. 5. Paul Arrives in Rome After three months, Paul and his companions set sail and eventually arrive in Rome. Paul is allowed to live by himself with a soldier to guard him (Acts 28:11-16). This reflects the Roman practice of "custodia libera," a form of house arrest. 6. Paul Meets with Jewish Leaders in Rome Paul calls together the local Jewish leaders to explain his situation and the reasons for his appeal to Caesar. He emphasizes that he has done nothing against the Jewish people or customs (Acts 28:17-20). 7. Paul Preaches to the Jews in Rome On a set day, many come to hear Paul speak about the kingdom of God and Jesus, using the Law of Moses and the Prophets to persuade them (Acts 28:23). The Greek word "πείθω" (peitho) is used, meaning to persuade or convince. 8. Mixed Reactions to Paul's Message Some are convinced by Paul's message, while others disbelieve (Acts 28:24). This division is a common theme in Acts, reflecting the varied responses to the Gospel. 9. Paul Quotes Isaiah to the Unbelieving Jews Paul cites Isaiah 6:9-10 to explain the unbelief of some of the Jews, indicating that their hearts have grown dull (Acts 28:25-27). The Greek word "βαρύνω" (baryno) means to make heavy or dull. 10. Paul Declares Salvation to the Gentiles Paul announces that God's salvation has been sent to the Gentiles, and they will listen (Acts 28:28). This marks a significant moment in the spread of the Gospel beyond the Jewish community. 11. Paul Continues Ministry in Rome For two years, Paul lives in his rented house, welcoming all who come to him. He boldly proclaims the kingdom of God and teaches about the Lord Jesus Christ with all openness and without hindrance (Acts 28:30-31). The Greek word "παρρησία" (parrhesia) means boldness or confidence. Topics 1. Paul on the Island of MaltaAfter the shipwreck, Paul and the others find themselves on the island of Malta. The islanders show them "extraordinary kindness" (Acts 28:2). The Greek word used here for kindness is "φιλανθρωπία" (philanthropia), indicating a love for humanity. 2. Paul Survives a Viper Bite While gathering wood, a viper fastens onto Paul's hand. The islanders expect him to die, but he suffers no harm, leading them to think he is a god (Acts 28:3-6). This event demonstrates God's protection over Paul. 3. Healing of Publius' Father and Others Paul heals the father of Publius, the chief official of the island, who was suffering from fever and dysentery. After this, others on the island come to be healed (Acts 28:7-9). The Greek word for healing here is "ἰάομαι" (iaomai), which can imply both physical and spiritual healing. 4. Paul's Journey to Rome After three months, they set sail for Rome. Paul is treated with respect and allowed to live by himself with a soldier to guard him (Acts 28:11-16). This journey fulfills God's promise that Paul would testify in Rome. 5. Paul Preaches to the Jewish Leaders in Rome Paul calls together the local Jewish leaders to explain his situation and to share the message of Jesus. He emphasizes that he has done nothing against the Jewish people or customs (Acts 28:17-22). 6. Paul's Testimony and the Kingdom of God Paul spends a whole day explaining and testifying about the kingdom of God, trying to persuade them about Jesus from the Law of Moses and the Prophets (Acts 28:23). The Greek word for kingdom, "βασιλεία" (basileia), signifies the reign and rule of God. 7. Mixed Reactions to Paul's Message Some are convinced by Paul's message, while others disbelieve. Paul quotes Isaiah to explain their unbelief, highlighting the fulfillment of prophecy (Acts 28:24-27). 8. Paul's Bold Proclamation Paul declares that God's salvation has been sent to the Gentiles, and they will listen (Acts 28:28). This statement underscores the universal scope of the Gospel. 9. Paul's Ministry in Rome Paul lives in Rome for two years, welcoming all who come to him. He preaches the kingdom of God and teaches about the Lord Jesus Christ with boldness and without hindrance (Acts 28:30-31). The Greek word for boldness, "παρρησία" (parrēsia), indicates freedom in speaking and confidence. Themes 1. Divine Protection and ProvidenceActs 28:3-6 describes how Paul was bitten by a viper but suffered no harm. This event highlights God's protection over Paul, fulfilling His promise of safety. The Greek word "ἄδικος" (adikos) in verse 4, meaning "unjust," reflects the islanders' initial belief that Paul was being punished, which was later overturned by God's providence. 2. Healing and Miracles In Acts 28:8-9, Paul heals the father of Publius and others on the island. This theme underscores the continuation of Jesus' healing ministry through His apostles. The Greek word "ἰάομαι" (iaomai), meaning "to heal," emphasizes the miraculous nature of these acts. 3. Hospitality and Generosity The Maltese people's kindness to Paul and his companions is evident in Acts 28:2 and 10. Their hospitality reflects the biblical principle of showing love to strangers, as seen in the Greek word "φιλόξενος" (philoxenos), meaning "hospitable." 4. Fulfillment of God's Mission Acts 28:14-16 shows Paul finally reaching Rome, fulfilling God's mission for him to testify there. The Greek word "μαρτυρέω" (martyreō), meaning "to bear witness," is central to understanding Paul's purpose in Rome. 5. Jewish Rejection and Gentile Inclusion In Acts 28:23-28, Paul preaches to the Jews in Rome, but many reject his message. This theme highlights the shift of the gospel to the Gentiles, as Paul quotes Isaiah 6:9-10. The Greek word "ἀποστρέφω" (apostrephō), meaning "to turn away," signifies the Jewish rejection. 6. Bold Proclamation of the Gospel Acts 28:30-31 concludes with Paul preaching the kingdom of God with boldness. The Greek word "παρρησία" (parrēsia), meaning "boldness" or "confidence," underscores the fearless proclamation of the gospel despite opposition. Answering Tough Questions 1. How do we reconcile the viper bite in Acts 28:3 with the claim that Malta has no venomous snakes? 3. What extra-biblical evidence confirms that Publius was the chief official mentioned in Acts 28:7? Bible Study Discussion Questions 1. How do you see God's protection manifest in Paul's journey, particularly in this final chapter? 2. How does Paul's unharmed state after the snakebite and his healing of others reflect God's power? 3. What can we learn from Paul's interaction with the locals on Malta and the Jewish leaders in Rome? 4. How does Paul's bold proclamation of the Gospel, even while under house arrest, inspire you to share your faith? 5. Despite the trials and tribulations faced by Paul, he remains unwavering in his mission. How can this encourage you in your own challenges? 6. How does the hospitality shown by the Maltese people and the Roman guard reflect the potential of human kindness, even towards strangers? 7. In what ways does the final chapter of Acts showcase the unstoppable nature of the Gospel? 8. How does Paul's journey reflect God's sovereignty in using circumstances and people for His purpose? 9. How does Paul's time on Malta demonstrate the concept of making the most of 'divine detours'? 10. How can we maintain faith and courage as Paul did in the face of uncertainty and danger? 11. How does Paul's persistent proclamation of the Gospel challenge you in your faith walk? 12. How can you live out the truth of the Gospel being unhindered in your own life? 13. How does Paul’s respect and patient explanation to the Jewish leaders in Rome demonstrate effective evangelism? 14. How can you demonstrate hospitality like the people of Malta in your own context? 15. How does Paul's ministry while under house arrest challenge our views on mission and ministry? 16. What can you learn from Paul's contentment in all circumstances as depicted in this chapter? 17. In what ways can this chapter inspire you to remain faithful, even when the circumstances are not ideal? 18. How does this chapter affect your understanding of what it means to trust God during the challenges of life? 19. How can we apply the teachings of this chapter in our current societal context? 20. In what ways can this chapter motivate you to be a better witness for Christ in your everyday life? 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