Acts 28

And when they were escaped, then they knew that the island was called Melita.

And the barbarous people shewed us no little kindness: for they kindled a fire, and received us every one, because of the present rain, and because of the cold.

And when Paul had gathered a bundle of sticks, and laid them on the fire, there came a viper out of the heat, and fastened on his hand.

And when the barbarians saw the venomous beast hang on his hand, they said among themselves, No doubt this man is a murderer, whom, though he hath escaped the sea, yet vengeance suffereth not to live.

And he shook off the beast into the fire, and felt no harm.

Howbeit they looked when he should have swollen, or fallen down dead suddenly: but after they had looked a great while, and saw no harm come to him, they changed their minds, and said that he was a god.

In the same quarters were possessions of the chief man of the island, whose name was Publius; who received us, and lodged us three days courteously.

And it came to pass, that the father of Publius lay sick of a fever and of a bloody flux: to whom Paul entered in, and prayed, and laid his hands on him, and healed him.

So when this was done, others also, which had diseases in the island, came, and were healed:

Who also honoured us with many honours; and when we departed, they laded us with such things as were necessary.

And after three months we departed in a ship of Alexandria, which had wintered in the isle, whose sign was Castor and Pollux.

And landing at Syracuse, we tarried there three days.

And from thence we fetched a compass, and came to Rhegium: and after one day the south wind blew, and we came the next day to Puteoli:

Where we found brethren, and were desired to tarry with them seven days: and so we went toward Rome.

And from thence, when the brethren heard of us, they came to meet us as far as Appiiforum, and The three taverns: whom when Paul saw, he thanked God, and took courage.

And when we came to Rome, the centurion delivered the prisoners to the captain of the guard: but Paul was suffered to dwell by himself with a soldier that kept him.

And it came to pass, that after three days Paul called the chief of the Jews together: and when they were come together, he said unto them, Men and brethren, though I have committed nothing against the people, or customs of our fathers, yet was I delivered prisoner from Jerusalem into the hands of the Romans.

Who, when they had examined me, would have let me go, because there was no cause of death in me.

But when the Jews spake against it, I was constrained to appeal unto Caesar; not that I had ought to accuse my nation of.

For this cause therefore have I called for you, to see you, and to speak with you: because that for the hope of Israel I am bound with this chain.

And they said unto him, We neither received letters out of Judaea concerning thee, neither any of the brethren that came shewed or spake any harm of thee.

But we desire to hear of thee what thou thinkest: for as concerning this sect, we know that every where it is spoken against.

And when they had appointed him a day, there came many to him into his lodging; to whom he expounded and testified the kingdom of God, persuading them concerning Jesus, both out of the law of Moses, and out of the prophets, from morning till evening.

And some believed the things which were spoken, and some believed not.

And when they agreed not among themselves, they departed, after that Paul had spoken one word, Well spake the Holy Ghost by Esaias the prophet unto our fathers,

Saying, Go unto this people, and say, Hearing ye shall hear, and shall not understand; and seeing ye shall see, and not perceive:

For the heart of this people is waxed gross, and their ears are dull of hearing, and their eyes have they closed; lest they should see with their eyes, and hear with their ears, and understand with their heart, and should be converted, and I should heal them.

Be it known therefore unto you, that the salvation of God is sent unto the Gentiles, and that they will hear it.

And when he had said these words, the Jews departed, and had great reasoning among themselves.

And Paul dwelt two whole years in his own hired house, and received all that came in unto him,

Preaching the kingdom of God, and teaching those things which concern the Lord Jesus Christ, with all confidence, no man forbidding him.

What does Acts 28:12 mean?

Explanation

Acts 28:12 details a brief stop that Paul and his companions made in the ancient city of Syracuse on the island of Sicily. As part of Paul's journey to Rome, where he was to stand trial before Caesar, the group paused in their travels for three days.

The verse provides a simple, factual account of their itinerary, but also offers a moment of rest in the narrative.

From a deeper perspective, this pause in Syracuse could symbolize a time of preparation, reflection, or rest for Paul and his party before continuing the strenuous journey to Rome and facing the challenges that awaited them there.

Top Rated Acts Books

Historical Context

The Book of Acts was written by Luke in the 1st century A.D. and chronicles the early history of the Christian church and the spread of the Gospel through the missionary work of the apostles, notably Peter and Paul.

At this point in Acts, Paul is a prisoner under Roman guard, but he is granted some liberties, which is why he was able to stop in Syracuse.

Syracuse was an important historical city in Sicily and a significant center in the Mediterranean.

It was a city with a large population and vibrant culture. The apostle Paul's journey through Syracuse was a part of his transfer from the province of Judea to Rome, following his appeal to Caesar as a Roman citizen to adjudicate his case after being accused and arrested in Jerusalem.

Theological Insights

Various theological insights can be drawn from this concise scripture.

One perspective may emphasize the sovereignty of God in Paul's journey, every step of Paul's path, including the stop at Syracuse, was under God's guidance.

Another viewpoint might see in Paul's journey, including delays and diversions, an example of Christian patience and endurance through uncertain times and reliance on God's timing.

Practical Applications

Acts 28:12 can teach modern readers about the value of pausing and taking time to rest even during life's journeys. It emphasizes the human need for rest and offers a model for taking breaks to rejuvenate when faced with long or challenging tasks ahead.

Cross-References

Acts 27:1-44: Details about Paul's journey by sea, including the shipwreck before reaching Malta.
Acts 28:1-11: The narrative of Paul and his companions on Malta before arriving at Syracuse.
Acts 28:13-16: Describes the journey from Syracuse to Rome.
Romans 8:28: A testimony to the belief that God works through all things for the good of His people.
Philippians 4:11-12: Paul speaks about learning to be content in any situation, which may reflect his demeanor during his rest at Syracuse.

Language Study

The term "Syracuse" is a transliteration from the Greek "Συράκουσαι" (Syrakousai).

The phrase "tarried there three days" uses the Greek word "ἐπεμείναμεν" (epemeinamen), which means "to stay" or "remain," and "τρεῖς" (treis) meaning "three," here used to specify the duration of their stay.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

Syracuse was renowned in the ancient world for its rich cultural heritage and as a center of learning and the arts.

The city's history can be compared with other important cities of the time, such as Athens or Corinth.

In religious terms, the act of taking pause in one's journey can be seen in various traditions, often for reflection or seeking divine wisdom.

Scientific Perspectives

The account of Paul's travels can intersect with scientific understandings of geography, anthropology, and maritime travel.

For instance, the details of the journey as recorded in Acts can be analyzed from a historical geography perspective, noting the common seafaring routes and practices of the Roman Empire.

Commentaries

Commentaries on this verse would likely highlight its historical importance and the geography of Paul's journey to Rome. They could also offer insight into the narratives of early Christian missions and how the apostles traveled extensively to preach the Gospel.

Some commentaries might focus on the logistical and practical aspects of the trip, such as the possible reasons for the stop at Syracuse, including resupplying, safety considerations, or waiting for favorable winds for sailing.

Acts 28

Acts 28

What does Acts 28:12 mean?

Explanation

Top Rated Acts Books

Historical Context

Theological Insights

Practical Applications

Cross-References

Language Study

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

Scientific Perspectives

Commentaries

Want more context?

What does Acts 28:12 mean?

Explanation

Top Rated Acts Books

Historical Context

Theological Insights

Practical Applications

Cross-References

Language Study

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

Scientific Perspectives

Commentaries

Want more context?