Acts 28:7-10

Summary retelling of Acts 28:7-10

In the area where the people were shipwrecked were the lands of the chief of the people of Malta.  The chief was named Publius.  Publius welcomed Paul, his companions, and probably the rest of the shipwrecked victims.  During the time of Publius’ hospitality, Paul heard that Publius’ father was sick with dysentery.  Paul prayed over Publius and while he laid his hands upon Publius’s father God healed him.  Word about this event spread and soon all of the sick and diseased on the island were brought before Paul.  The people of the island honored Paul and his companions.  When the time came for sailing to be safe again, the people gave whatever supplies were needed to Paul and his companions.

Thoughts for Today

First Thought:

Publius welcomes the shipwrecked victims into his home.  Here we can see why it is that the native people of Malta were so generous to the victims.  They had a generous leader.  People often follow the example of their leaders.  Since Publius appeared to be generous, the native people under his leadership mirrored that quality.

How can we train ourselves to take leadership seriously?  Why is it so important for leaders to have a public testimony of the qualities they desire to inspire in others?

Second Thought:

Paul is always on the job.  Here is a man who is under guard.  He’s just survived a horrible shipwreck.  He has been bitten by some kind of poisonous snake.  He’s tried to be the messenger between God’s will and the rest of the people on the ship.  Just when you would think he would desire a break, he’s ready to get to work.  He is God’s conduit for the healing of Publius’ father.  Then he is the conduit for God’s healing of the whole island!

Have you ever heard the cliché: There is no rest for the weary?  What does it mean?  Do you think it is a Christian principle?  Does Jesus display any similar quality?  If so, where do you remember Jesus having this quality?

Third Thought:

Paul and his companions are honored by the inhabitants of the island.  Imagine Julius’ reaction to this.  Here is Paul, the person who is to go before Caesar in trial.  As a prisoner, he actively works to save lives.  He works to save the lives of all the soldiers and victims on the ship.  He has compassion on a whole island full of people that he has never met.  Then Julius notes that through Paul, his journey to Rome is going to be well supplied.

What would you be thinking if you were Julius?  How does this show us how we as Christians are to promote Christ?

Passage for Tomorrow: Acts 28:11-16