How does Acts 28:3 connect with Mark 16:18 about handling snakes? Reading the Passages Together Acts 28:3: “Paul 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.” Mark 16:18: “they will pick up snakes with their hands, and if they drink any deadly poison, it will not harm them; they will lay their hands on the sick, and they will be made well.” Immediate Setting in Acts 28 • Paul is shipwrecked on Malta after faithfully following the Lord’s direction (Acts 27). • He helps build a fire for the survivors. A viper strikes—unprovoked and unexpected. • The islanders expect Paul to swell up or die, yet “he shook the creature off into the fire and suffered no harm” (Acts 28:5). • Their amazement turns to recognition that something supernatural has taken place, preparing their hearts for the gospel message Paul will share (Acts 28:6-10). Promise Echoed from Mark 16 • Jesus foretold specific signs that would “accompany those who believe” (Mark 16:17-18). • Protection from venomous snakes is explicitly listed. • Paul’s experience on Malta is a direct fulfillment of that promise—years after Jesus spoke it, affirming Scripture’s accuracy. Supporting Passages on Divine Protection • Luke 10:19—“I have given you authority… to overcome all the power of the enemy; nothing will harm you.” • Psalm 91:13—“You will tread on the lion and cobra; you will trample the young lion and serpent.” • Isaiah 43:2—“When you pass through the waters, I will be with you… when you walk through the fire, you will not be burned.” • These verses form a consistent biblical theme: God sovereignly shields His servants until their mission is complete. Purpose of the Sign—Not a Public Stunt • Paul did not seek out a snake to prove anything; the sign occurred in the normal course of ministry service. • The miracle authenticated the gospel to unbelievers on Malta, opening doors for healing and evangelism (Acts 28:8-10). • Signs are God-directed confirmations, not spectacles for testing Him (Deuteronomy 6:16; Matthew 4:7). Balanced Application Today • Trust the literal promise: God can and does protect His people supernaturally when needed. • Avoid presumptuous testing—handling snakes deliberately for show contradicts Jesus’ own warning against putting God to the test. • Remain confident that no unforeseen danger can thwart God’s plan for a believer walking in obedience. Key Takeaways • Acts 28:3 is a living illustration of Mark 16:18. • The event validates Jesus’ prophetic words and underscores Scripture’s reliability. • God’s protective power accompanies gospel mission, assuring believers that nothing—serpent, storm, or sickness—can derail His purposes. |
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