Topical Encyclopedia The voyage and shipwreck of the Apostle Paul is a significant event recorded in the New Testament, specifically in the Book of Acts, chapters 27 and 28. This narrative details Paul's journey to Rome as a prisoner, his experiences at sea, and the divine interventions that occurred during this perilous voyage.Context and Background Paul, having been arrested in Jerusalem and subsequently held in Caesarea, appealed to Caesar as a Roman citizen to have his case heard in Rome (Acts 25:11). This appeal set the stage for his journey to the heart of the Roman Empire. The voyage took place around A.D. 59-60, during the reign of Emperor Nero. The Journey Begins Paul, along with other prisoners, was placed under the custody of a centurion named Julius of the Imperial Regiment. They embarked on a ship from Adramyttium, intending to sail along the coast of Asia Minor. Accompanying Paul were his companions, including Luke, the author of Acts, and Aristarchus, a Macedonian from Thessalonica (Acts 27:1-2). Challenges at Sea The journey was fraught with difficulties from the outset. After transferring to an Alexandrian ship bound for Italy, they encountered adverse winds that slowed their progress. Paul, with his experience and divine insight, warned the crew of impending danger if they continued the voyage, saying, "Men, I can see that our voyage is going to result in disaster and great loss, not only to the cargo and ship, but also to our own lives" (Acts 27:10). However, the centurion was persuaded by the pilot and the owner of the ship to continue. The Storm and Shipwreck As they sailed, a violent storm, known as a "Northeaster," struck, driving the ship off course. For many days, the crew battled the tempest, losing hope of being saved. In the midst of this turmoil, Paul stood before them and delivered a message of hope, revealing that an angel of God had assured him that all aboard would be spared, though the ship would be lost (Acts 27:22-24). After two weeks adrift, the sailors sensed they were approaching land. They attempted to abandon the ship, but Paul urged the centurion to keep everyone on board, declaring, "Unless these men remain with the ship, you cannot be saved" (Acts 27:31). Eventually, the ship struck a sandbar and began to break apart. The centurion, wishing to spare Paul's life, ordered those who could swim to jump overboard first and make for land, while the rest clung to planks and debris. All 276 passengers reached the shore safely, fulfilling the divine promise (Acts 27:37, 44). Malta and Beyond The survivors found themselves on the island of Malta, where the islanders showed them "extraordinary kindness" (Acts 28:2). During their stay, Paul was bitten by a viper but suffered no harm, leading the islanders to regard him as a god. Paul also healed the father of Publius, the chief official of the island, and others who were sick, further demonstrating the power of God at work through him (Acts 28:3-9). After three months, they set sail on another Alexandrian ship and eventually arrived in Rome. There, Paul was allowed to live by himself with a soldier to guard him, continuing his ministry and preaching the gospel boldly and without hindrance (Acts 28:16, 30-31). Significance The voyage and shipwreck of Paul highlight themes of divine providence, faith, and the fulfillment of God's purposes despite human adversity. This account serves as a testament to Paul's unwavering faith and the sovereignty of God in guiding and protecting His servants. International Standard Bible Encyclopedia Voyage and Shipwreck of PaulVOYAGE AND SHIPWRECK OF PAUL voi'-aj, ship'-rek. Library The Voyage and Shipwreck Paul's Shipwreck Paul in Rome Paul's Missionary Labors. The Acts of the Apostles The Acts of the Apostles The Acts of the Apostles. Paul in Malta and Rome. Introduction An Exposition of the Chapters of the Acts of the Apostles. Resources What happened between Paul's third and fourth missionary journeys? | GotQuestions.orgWho are the twins in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org What is Candlemas? | GotQuestions.org Voyage: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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