Acts Chapter 28 — Paul’s Ministry in Rome
Paul survives a shipwreck and a snakebite on the island of Malta before finally arriving in Rome, where he continues to preach while under house arrest.
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Notable Verses
Acts 28:5
“However he shook off the creature into the fire, and wasn’t harmed.”
This verse demonstrates divine protection as Paul survives a venomous viper bite while on Malta.
Acts 28:28
“Be it known therefore to you that the salvation of God is sent to the nations, and they will listen.”
This summarizes a major shift in the book of Acts, emphasizing the inclusion of the Gentiles in God's plan.
Acts 28:31
“preaching God’s Kingdom and teaching the things concerning the Lord Jesus Christ with all boldness, without hindrance.”
The final verse of Acts highlights the unstoppable nature of the gospel message even during Paul's imprisonment.
Chapter Summary
Acts Chapter 28 concludes the journey of the apostle Paul. After escaping a shipwreck, Paul and his companions land on the island of Malta. The residents show them kindness, and Paul performs miracles, including surviving a venomous snakebite and healing the father of a local official named Publius. After three months, they sail to Rome, where Paul is welcomed by local believers. Though he remains under house arrest, he is permitted to receive visitors. Paul calls together the Jewish leaders in Rome to explain his situation and present the message of Jesus. While some are persuaded, others remain skeptical, leading Paul to quote the prophet Isaiah concerning the spiritual deafness of the people. He declares that God's salvation has been sent to the Gentiles, who will listen. The book ends with Paul spending two years in his own rented house, teaching and preaching the Kingdom of God and the Lord Jesus Christ with boldness and without hindrance.
Frequently Asked Questions
After the shipwreck, Paul and the others were welcomed by the people of Malta. While gathering sticks for a fire, Paul was bitten by a viper but suffered no ill effects, leading the locals to initially believe he was a god.
Publius was the chief official of the island of Malta who hosted Paul and his companions for three days. Paul healed Publius' father of a fever and dysentery, leading many others on the island to come for healing as well.
The chapter ends with Paul living in a rented house in Rome for two years under guard. He was allowed to receive visitors and continued to preach about the Kingdom of God and Jesus Christ with boldness and without restriction.
Study Note
The 'Twin Brothers' mentioned in verse 11 refers to Castor and Pollux, figures from Greek and Roman mythology who were considered patrons of sailors.
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