Acts 27:32-38 Then the soldiers cut off the ropes of the boat, and let her fall off.… I. SOCIAL CONSIDERATENESS. The emaciated appearance of all on board, through lack of food, touched Paul's generous heart (ver. 33). The alarm and anxiety of the past fourteen days and nights had, according to a physiological law, deadened their appetite. Paul, with the tact of a practical philosopher, sought to resuscitate their inclination for food by allaying their fears: "For there shall not an hair fall from the head of any of you." This social considerateness Paul often displayed in his conduct and teaching, and it is an essential attribute of Christianity. "Bear ye one another's burdens, and so fulfil the law of Christ." II. CALM SELF-CONTROL. He was in the midst of the most agitating scenes — the furious hurricane — the reeling, plunging, shattered ship — the 276 terror-stricken men — yet how sublimely calm this man is (ver. 35)! A finer picture of moral majesty can scarcely be conceived. The philosophy of his tranquillity was faith in that God whose he was and whom he served. III. PRACTICAL RELIGIOUSNESS. "He gave thanks to God in presence of them all." This was according to the Christian practice (Matthew 15:36; Matthew 26:27; John 6:11-23; Romans 14:6; 1 Corinthians 10:13; 1 Corinthians 11:24; 1 Corinthians 14:17; Ephesians 5:20; 1 Thessalonians 5:18). IV. COMMANDING INFLUENCE. What he said and what he did struck new energy into the heart of all (ver. 36). He animated all with the energy of hope. A soul strong with goodness can energise others. (D. Thomas, D. D.) Parallel Verses KJV: Then the soldiers cut off the ropes of the boat, and let her fall off.WEB: Then the soldiers cut away the ropes of the boat, and let it fall off. |
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