What can we learn from the people's reaction to Paul's survival in Acts 28:6? Text: Acts 28:6 “But they were expecting that he would swell up or suddenly fall down dead. But after they had waited a long time and saw no harm come to him, they changed their minds and began to say that he was a god.” Immediate Reaction: Fear to Fascination • The islanders move from waiting for Paul’s death to declaring divinity. • Their flip-flop underscores how quickly human judgment can swing when it isn’t anchored in truth (James 1:6-8). • Earlier (v. 4) they assumed Paul was a murderer receiving justice; now they exalt him. Both conclusions were wrong. God’s Sovereign Protection • Jesus had already promised Paul, “You must testify in Rome” (Acts 23:11). No serpent could cancel that. • Fulfillment of Mark 16:18: “They will pick up snakes with their hands; … it will not harm them.” • Echoes Psalm 91:13: “You will tread on the lion and cobra; … the serpent you will trample.” • Luke’s precise account invites confidence in the historical and literal reliability of Scripture. Human Tendency to Swing between Condemnation and Idolization • Without revelation, people judge by appearances (1 Samuel 16:7). • Same pattern at Lystra: crowds called Paul a god after a miracle (Acts 14:11-18); he redirected glory to God. • Beware of elevating any servant of God above the Lord who empowers him (1 Corinthians 3:5-7). Sound Doctrine over Superstition • The islanders interpreted events through myth and rumor, not truth. • Paul’s composure rested on God’s word, not on circumstances (Psalm 119:89). • We guard against superstition by testing everything against Scripture (Acts 17:11; 1 John 4:1). Miracles as Doorways for the Gospel • Paul’s preservation opened hearts; soon he healed Publius’ father and many others (Acts 28:8-9). • Signs authenticate the messenger but must always point back to Christ, never stop with the sign itself (John 20:30-31). Takeaways for Us • Trust God’s promises; His purposes override every threat. • Refuse both rash condemnation and unwarranted hero-worship of people. • Let Scripture, not circumstance, shape interpretation. • Use every deliverance as an opportunity to exalt Jesus and share His saving message. |
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