What can we learn from Paul's reaction to the snake in Acts 28:5? Setting the Moment: A Viper, a Fire, and an Apostle While gathering wood on Malta, “Paul shook the creature off into the fire and suffered no harm” (Acts 28:5). Islanders expected him to swell up or drop dead. Instead, nothing happened. Fundamental Truths We See in Paul’s Response • God’s promise of protection is real. — Mark 16:18: “...they will pick up snakes with their hands; and if they drink any deadly poison, it will not harm them.” — Luke 10:19: “I have given you authority to tread on snakes and scorpions…and nothing will harm you.” • Faith expresses itself in calm action, not panic. • Paul’s mission took priority over the attack; he kept serving. • Adversity is best handled by immediate, decisive rejection—he literally “shook it off.” Practical Lessons for Everyday Disciples 1. Expect opposition, but don’t be paralyzed by it. 2. Refuse to let fear dictate your response; act on God’s promises. 3. Keep the mission central—Paul kept gathering wood for the fire and sharing the gospel afterward. 4. Shake off what the enemy throws; don’t carry venomous baggage. 5. God’s deliverance authenticates the message (Acts 28:6–10). People moved from calling Paul a murderer to calling him a god, then were ready to hear truth. Supporting Scripture Snapshots • Psalm 91:13: “You will tread on the lion and cobra; you will trample the young lion and serpent.” • Isaiah 54:17: “No weapon formed against you shall prosper.” • 2 Corinthians 4:8-9: “We are hard pressed on all sides, yet not crushed…struck down, yet not destroyed.” Guardrails Against Presumption • Paul didn’t seek out the snake; he faced it while serving. • Protection promises never justify reckless testing of God (Matthew 4:7). Living the Passage Today • Serve faithfully; threats may appear, but God has the final word. • When attacked—physically, verbally, spiritually—shake it off into the “fire” of God’s judgment and move forward. • Let delivered crises become testimonies that open doors for ministry, just as Malta’s chief official invited Paul in and many were healed (Acts 28:8-9). Summing It Up Paul’s quiet confidence, swift action, and unshaken focus reveal a life anchored in God’s sure promises. We, too, can face life’s vipers without fear, shake them off, and keep advancing the gospel. |
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