Paul’s Miraculous Time on Malta (Acts 28:1–10)
After the shipwreck, Paul and the others found themselves safe on the island of Malta. The local people showed them great kindness, building a fire to warm the wet and exhausted survivors. As Paul gathered wood for the fire, a venomous snake, driven out by the heat, bit his hand. The locals assumed he must be a murderer receiving divine justice, saying, “A murderer, no doubt! Though he escaped the sea, justice will not permit him to live” (Acts 28:4, NLT). But Paul shook the snake off into the fire and suffered no harm. The people watched, expecting him to swell up or suddenly drop dead. When nothing happened, they changed their minds and decided he was a god.
This event opened the door for further kindness. The leading official on the island, Publius, welcomed Paul and his companions into his home for three days. Publius’ father was ill with fever and dysentery, and Paul went in, prayed for him, laid hands on him, and healed him. After that, others with illnesses came and were healed as well. The islanders honored Paul and his companions, giving them the supplies they needed for the remainder of the journey. Although Luke does not mention any conversions on Malta, the people clearly recognized the blessing that Paul’s presence brought.
Journey Toward Rome (Acts 28:11–16)
After winter passed, Paul and his companions boarded another Alexandrian ship that had spent the season in Malta. It bore the figurehead of the twin gods Castor and Pollux, the supposed protectors of sailors. From Malta, they sailed to Syracuse in Sicily, where they stayed for three days, then traveled to Rhegium and finally to Puteoli on the Italian mainland. There, they found believers who invited them to stay for a week. From there, they began their final journey to Rome.
As word spread that Paul was coming, believers from Rome came to meet him at the Forum on the Appian Way and at Three Taverns. Their arrival filled Paul with courage. Luke notes, “When Paul saw them, he was encouraged and thanked God” (Acts 28:15, NLT). Paul was allowed to live under guard in a private residence, not in prison, highlighting the respect and trust he had gained.
Paul Engages the Jewish Leaders (Acts 28:17–24)
Just three days after arriving, Paul called together the local Jewish leaders. He explained his situation, emphasizing that although he had been arrested in Jerusalem and turned over to the Romans, he had done nothing against the Jewish people or their customs. Paul said, “The Romans tried me and wanted to release me, because they found no cause for the death sentence” (Acts 28:18, NLT). But because the Jews objected, he had to appeal to Caesar—not to accuse his people, but to defend himself.
Paul continued, “I asked you to come here today so we could get acquainted and so I could explain to you that I am bound with this chain because I believe that the hope of Israel—the Messiah—has already come” (Acts 28:20, NLT). The Jewish leaders replied that they hadn’t received any letters or reports about Paul but wanted to hear more about this “sect,” as Christianity was commonly referred to. They admitted, “We want to hear what you believe, for the only thing we know about this movement is that it is denounced everywhere” (Acts 28:22, NLT).
A large group returned to hear Paul speak more. From morning until evening, he explained and testified about the kingdom of God, using the Law of Moses and the Prophets to try to persuade them about Jesus. Some believed, but others refused.
The Gospel Goes to the Gentiles (Acts 28:25–31)
As the group began to leave, Paul gave one final warning using Isaiah’s prophecy. He said, “The Holy Spirit was right when he said to your ancestors through Isaiah the prophet, ‘When you hear what I say, you will not understand…’” (Acts 28:25-26, NLT). Paul explained that the message had now gone to the Gentiles because the Jewish people were not listening. He added, “They will accept it!” (Acts 28:28, NLT). With that, the meeting ended in dispute.
The book closes on a hopeful and powerful note. For two years, Paul lived in his own rented house in Rome. He welcomed all who visited him and “boldly proclaimed the Kingdom of God and taught about the Lord Jesus Christ—and no one tried to stop him” (Acts 28:31, NLT). Though the story ends without mentioning the outcome of Paul’s trial, the focus is clear: the gospel advanced without hindrance, reaching even the heart of the Roman Empire.
Truths and Lessons for Today
1. God Can Use Delays for Divine Encounters
What seemed like a detour—Paul’s shipwreck on Malta—became an opportunity for healing, witness, and provision. Even interruptions in our plans can serve God’s greater purposes.
🡲 Application: Instead of grumbling during delays, ask, “God, who do You want me to help or speak to here?” Unexpected moments can be holy appointments.
📖 “As a result, we were showered with honors, and when the time came to sail, people supplied us with everything we would need for the trip” (Acts 28:10, NLT).
2. The Gospel Is for Everyone—Even Those Who Refuse to Hear
Paul patiently explained the gospel to the Jewish leaders, but some rejected it. Still, the message went forward—to the Gentiles and beyond. Truth doesn’t stop because of opposition.
🡲 Application: Don’t give up sharing Jesus just because some reject Him. Keep speaking truth, knowing God is working even when results seem invisible.
📖 “So I want you to know that this salvation from God has also been offered to the Gentiles, and they will accept it” (Acts 28:28, NLT).
3. Bold Witness Bears Fruit—Even in Chains
Though under house arrest, Paul welcomed guests and preached boldly for two years. His chains did not silence the message. His imprisonment became a pulpit.
🡲 Application: No matter your circumstance, your life can be a platform for the gospel. Limitations don’t limit God’s ability to work through you.
📖 “Boldly proclaiming the Kingdom of God and teaching about the Lord Jesus Christ. And no one tried to stop him” (Acts 28:31, NLT).
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