The Ship is Caught in a Storm – Acts 27:13–20
They set sail under favorable conditions, as recorded in Acts 27:13. However, a violent northeasterly wind known as Eurakylōn suddenly struck the ship (Acts 27:14). Unable to head into the wind, the ship was driven along without control (Acts 27:15). They managed to secure the ship near Clauda, a small island south of Crete—known today as Gavdos (Acts 27:16). To avoid grounding, the crew lowered the sails (Acts 27:17). In an effort to lighten the ship, they threw cargo overboard (Acts 27:18–19). For many days, they neither saw the sun nor the stars, leaving them in utter darkness and despair (Acts 27:20).
Shipwrecked – Acts 27:21–44
Paul stood among the men and encouraged them, assuring them that while the ship would be lost, no life would be taken (Acts 27:21–25). He revealed to them that the ship must run aground on a certain island (Acts 27:26). On the fourteenth night, they drew near land and began to take soundings (Acts 27:27–28). To slow the ship, they dropped anchors (Acts 27:29). When some attempted to escape in the lifeboat, Paul warned that unless they remained aboard, they could not be saved (Acts 27:30–31). The soldiers then cut away the skiff to prevent any from fleeing (Acts 27:32). Paul urged everyone to eat, assuring them that not a single life would be lost. At dawn, he gave thanks to God and began to eat, encouraging the others to do likewise. In total, there were 276 people on board (Acts 27:33–38).
When daylight came, they saw a bay with a beach and attempted to run the ship aground there (Acts 27:39–40). However, the vessel struck a sandbar and began to break apart from the force of the waves (Acts 27:41). The soldiers intended to kill the prisoners to prevent escape, but the centurion, desiring to save Paul, stopped them (Acts 27:42–43). Everyone jumped overboard or clung to wreckage and, as Paul had declared, all escaped safely to land (Acts 27:44).
The Gospel is Brought to Malta – Acts 28:1–10
Once ashore, they discovered the island was called Malta, located about 60 miles south of Cape Passero, Sicily. It is the largest of five nearby islands (Acts 28:1). The natives of Malta showed them unusual kindness, kindling a fire and welcoming all who had come from the ship (Acts 28:2). While helping gather sticks, Paul was bitten by a venomous serpent, but he suffered no harm, which astonished the islanders (Acts 28:3–6). The chief man of the island, Publius, received them and offered hospitality for three days (Acts 28:7). During that time, Paul healed Publius’ father and many others who were sick on the island (Acts 28:8–9). In gratitude, the people honored them and provided all the necessary supplies for their continued journey (Acts 28:10).
They Arrive in Rome – Acts 28:11–16
After wintering in Malta, they boarded an Alexandrian ship bearing the sign of the Twin Brothers and set sail (Acts 28:11). They arrived at Syracuse, a major port city on the eastern coast of Sicily, where they stayed for three days (Acts 28:12). With the aid of a south wind, they sailed to Puteoli—a significant port near Naples, located about 170 miles from Rome—where they were welcomed by fellow believers and stayed with them for seven days (Acts 28:13–14). When the brethren in Rome heard of Paul’s arrival, many traveled to meet him at Appii Forum, about 43 miles from the city, and at the Three Inns, approximately 33 miles from Rome (Acts 28:15). Upon arrival, Paul was permitted to dwell by himself, though under the guard of a soldier (Acts 28:16).
Paul Speaks to the Jewish Leaders in Rome – Acts 28:17–29
After three days, Paul called the Jewish leaders together and explained that although he had committed nothing against the people or customs of the fathers, he had been delivered as a prisoner into Roman hands (Acts 28:17). When examined, the Romans would have released him, but the opposition of the Jews compelled him to appeal to Caesar—not because he had anything to accuse his nation of (Acts 28:18–19). Paul explained that he was bound for the hope of Israel (Acts 28:20). The Jewish leaders responded that they had received no letters or reports against him from Judea and expressed a desire to hear more about “this sect,” which was widely spoken against (Acts 28:21–22).
A large number came to his lodging, where Paul testified about the Kingdom of God and Jesus, reasoning with them from morning until evening from the Law of Moses and the Prophets (Acts 28:23). Some believed the things spoken, while others did not (Acts 28:24). Paul, recognizing their hardness of heart, cited Isaiah’s prophecy and declared that the salvation of God had now been sent to the Gentiles, and they would hear it (Acts 28:25–28). After he had spoken these words, the Jews departed, having had a great dispute among themselves (Acts 28:29).
Paul Spent Two Years in Rome – Acts 28:30–31
Paul remained in his own rented house for two full years, welcoming all who came to him (Acts 28:30). During this time, he boldly preached the Kingdom of God and taught the things concerning the Lord Jesus Christ with all confidence, no one hindering him (Acts 28:31).
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