How does Acts 28:4 connect with Romans 8:28 on God's purpose? The setting on Malta: misread by the fire Acts 28:4: “When the islanders saw the creature hanging from his hand, they said to one another, ‘Surely this man is a murderer; although he has escaped the sea, Justice has not allowed him to live.’” • The locals assume Paul must be guilty; divine retribution seems obvious to them. • Their theology is simple: bad things happen only to bad people. • Yet Paul is innocent, and God has already declared His purpose for Paul’s life (Acts 23:11). The bigger picture: God’s purpose at work 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.” • “All things” includes shipwrecks, snakebites, and false accusations. • God’s “good” is not always comfort but conformity to Christ and advancement of the gospel. • Paul’s love for God and divine calling guarantee that even this venomous moment fits the plan. From viper bite to gospel opportunity Watch how the two verses interlock: 1. Apparent curse (Acts 28:4) → Providential platform (Acts 28:5-6). 2. Islanders’ judgment → God’s vindication as Paul suffers no harm. 3. Fear and superstition → Open door for witness (Acts 28:7-10). Threaded truth across Scripture • Genesis 50:20—what humans mean for evil, God turns for good. • Psalm 119:71—affliction becomes a teacher. • 2 Corinthians 4:17—“light and momentary troubles” prepare eternal glory. • James 1:2-4—trials perfect perseverance and maturity. Practical takeaways • Misread circumstances do not override God’s declared purpose. • Criticism and calamity can become catalysts for testimony. • God’s sovereignty extends to the smallest detail— even the strike of a desert viper. • Believers can rest in the certainty that every event, welcome or painful, weaves into a tapestry of ultimate good for those who love Him. |
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