The Book of Acts

 

Paul on the Island of Malta

Acts 28:1-10 _NLT

“Once we were safe on shore, we learned that we were on the island of Malta. The people of the island were very kind to us. It was cold and rainy, so they built a fire on the shore to welcome us.”

            Once all 276 men had arrived safely on shore they learned they were on the Island of Malta *. The people of the Island showed kindness to these strangers by building them a fire on the beach, as it was cold and rainy.  While Paul was placing some branches on the fire a viper lunged at him, biting him on the hand.  The people saw the venomous snake dangling from Paul’s hand and immediately assumed he was some sort of criminal whom Justice had finally caught up with since he had not died at sea. 

                  The Island had originally been colonized by Phoenicians (1000 B.C.) until it was captured by the Rome (218 B.C.).  “Malta was known for its prosperity and residential architecture, and its native population spoke a Phoenician dialect, though many probably knew some Latin and Greek.” I mention this because the Phoenician’s worshipped Greek gods and goddesses. The goddess of justice was Dike ** (see note below). Knowing this we must assume that the Island people believed that Dike had meted out justice on this unknown man. The only problem was that though they waited to see Paul drop dead before them, he never did. He was left unharmed, which harkens back to God’s promise that Paul would arrive in Rome to stand trial unharmed. God wouldn’t allow Paul to be taken down because he had other important things to say and do for the Lord. After some time had passed the people decided Paul wasn’t a criminal, but rather a god with special healing powers.

                  The chief officer of the Island was Publius who welcomed the large group of men onto his estate and treated them all with kindness.  Through the text we find that Publius’ father was very ill with a fever and dysentery. Paul went to the father, laid hands on him and prayed which resulted in the father’s healing. After this miracle people from all over the Island who were sick came to the estate for healing. The apostle prayed for each one and they were all made totally well. After this incredible event took place many honors were showered upon those who washed up on shore. They blessed them with anything they would need for the final leg of their trip on to Rome.  Until next time, walk with the King and be a blessing.

In His name & for His glory,

Richard Keller

Bread of Life Ministries

Resources: The Life Application Study Bible; Expositor's Bible Commentary: New Testament.

* Malta is an island about 18 miles long and 8 miles wide, lying 58 miles south of Sicily and 180 miles north and east of the African coast.

** In Greek mythology, Dike or Dice [ pronounced die-key’] is the goddess of justice and the spirit of moral order and fair judgement.