Proclaiming God’s Kingdom Boldly: An Orthodox Commentary on Acts 28

Executive Summary ✨

Acts 28, the concluding chapter of the Book of Acts, recounts the final leg of Paul’s journey to Rome. After surviving a shipwreck on Malta, Paul and his companions experience the islanders’ unexpected kindness and witness miraculous healings. Arriving in Rome, Paul, though under house arrest, boldly proclaims God’s Kingdom in Rome, teaching and preaching about Christ unhindered. This chapter underscores the unwavering dedication of Paul to spreading the Gospel despite adversity. His ministry demonstrates that physical imprisonment cannot restrain the spiritual freedom to share the truth. The chapter closes with Paul continuing to minister to all who come to him, affirming the expansive reach of the Good News and the persistent work of the Holy Spirit.

Acts 28 marks a crucial point in salvation history, showcasing the unwavering faith of Paul and the unstoppable spread of Christianity even amidst trials. It emphasizes the universality of the Gospel message and God’s sovereignty over all circumstances. Let us delve deeper into this pivotal chapter and glean wisdom from the apostle’s perseverance, drawing lessons for our own spiritual journeys. Learn about website accessibility and website development.

Commentary: Acts 28 Verse-by-Verse

Acts 28:1-6 – Shipwrecked on Malta and the Viper

Acts 28:1 (KJV): “And when they were escaped, then they knew that the island was called Melita.”

Acts 28:1 (NKJV): “Now when they had escaped, they then found out that the island was called Malta.”

The journey to Rome, fraught with perils, culminates in an unexpected landfall. The island of Malta (Melita), strategically located in the Mediterranean, provides refuge. This seemingly random event is, in fact, divinely orchestrated. Even in shipwreck, God’s providence shines. It is reminiscent of the story of Joseph, whose trials led him to become a savior for Egypt. The islanders’ initial kindness and hospitality are reflections of God’s grace extended through unexpected sources.

Practical application: Recognize God’s hand in unexpected places. Even in moments of crisis, look for opportunities to show Christ’s love.

Acts 28:3 (KJV): “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.”

Acts 28:3 (NKJV): “But when Paul had gathered a bundle of sticks and laid them on the fire, a viper came out because of the heat, and fastened on his hand.”

The viper incident is symbolic. Paul, diligently serving by gathering wood, becomes the victim of a venomous attack. This mirrors the constant opposition Paul faces in his ministry. However, this event also highlights divine protection. The viper, a symbol of evil and temptation, cannot ultimately harm Paul. Saint Cyril of Alexandria writes, “Ἡ γὰρ χάρις τοῦ Θεοῦ ἀσφαλίζεται τοὺς πιστούς” (“For the grace of God protects the faithful,” *Commentary on John*, Book 3).

Practical application: Expect spiritual attacks as you serve God. Rely on His grace and protection to overcome them.

Acts 28:5-6 (KJV): “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.”

Acts 28:5-6 (NKJV): “But he shook off the creature into the fire and suffered no harm. However, they were expecting that he would swell up or suddenly fall down dead; but after they had looked for a long time and saw no harm come to him, they changed their minds and said that he was a god.”

Paul’s miraculous survival captivates the islanders. Their initial fear turns to awe, and they wrongly deify him. This mirrors the temptation that Christ faced in the desert – to receive worldly glory. Paul’s reaction is unrecorded here, but we can assume he directed their attention to God, similar to his interactions with the crowds in Lystra (Acts 14:11-18). This incident is a testament to the power of God over natural forces and the power of witnessing.

Practical application: Don’t seek personal glory for your achievements. Always point others to the source of your strength and blessings – God.

Acts 28:7-10 – Healing in Malta

Acts 28:8-9 (KJV): “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:”

Acts 28:8-9 (NKJV): “And it happened that the father of Publius lay sick of a fever and dysentery. Paul went in to him and prayed, and he laid his hands on him and healed him. So when this was done, the rest of those on the island who had diseases also came and were healed.”

Paul’s ministry extends to healing, first of Publius’ father, then others on the island. This demonstrates the compassion of Christ working through Paul. The healing miracles confirm the truth of Paul’s message and lead to further blessing for the islanders. The Coptic Orthodox Church emphasizes the importance of healing as a sign of God’s love and power. This mirrors the healings performed by Christ during His earthly ministry. As Saint Athanasius states, “Ὁ Λόγος σὰρξ ἐγένετο, ἵνα ἡμεῖς θεοποιηθῶμεν” (“The Word became flesh, so that we might be divinized,” *De Incarnatione*, 54).

Practical application: Pray for the sick and believe in the power of healing. Be open to serving others through acts of compassion and mercy.

Acts 28:11-16 – Arrival in Rome

Acts 28:11 (KJV): “And after three months we departed in a ship of Alexandria, which had wintered in the isle, whose sign was Castor and Pollux.”

Acts 28:11 (NKJV): “After three months we sailed in a ship of Alexandria whose figurehead was the Twin Brothers, which had wintered at the island.”

The detail regarding the ship “Castor and Pollux” (the Twin Brothers) provides historical context. Ships of Alexandria were common carriers in the Mediterranean. The wintering period indicates the seasonality of seafaring in antiquity. This seemingly insignificant detail adds veracity to the narrative. The geographical context is critical for understanding the logistical challenges of Paul’s journey. The perseverance of Paul amidst these challenges shows his dedication to God’s Kingdom in Rome

Practical application: Appreciate the historical and geographical context of scripture. Seek to understand the world in which the biblical events occurred.

Acts 28:14 (KJV): “Where we found brethren, and were desired to tarry with them seven days: and so we went toward Rome.”

Acts 28:14 (NKJV): “There we found brethren, and were invited to stay with them seven days. And so we went toward Rome.”

The presence of Christian brethren in Puteoli, near Rome, highlights the established Christian community that existed even before Paul’s arrival. The believers welcomed Paul and his companions, illustrating the importance of Christian fellowship and hospitality. This welcome strengthens their spirits for the final leg of their journey. The Orthodox Church emphasizes the importance of community and mutual support among believers.

Practical application: Cultivate Christian fellowship and extend hospitality to fellow believers, particularly those who are traveling or in need.

Acts 28:17-29 – Paul’s Ministry in Rome

Acts 28:17 (KJV): “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.”

Acts 28:17 (NKJV): “And it came to pass after three days that Paul called the leaders of the Jews together. So when they had come together, he said to them: “Men and brethren, though I have done nothing against our people or the customs of our fathers, yet I was delivered as a prisoner from Jerusalem into the hands of the Romans,”

Paul, upon arriving in Rome, immediately seeks out the Jewish leaders. He emphasizes his innocence, stating he has done nothing against his people or their customs. This is consistent with his approach throughout the Book of Acts – to first preach to the Jews. His purpose is not to cause division, but to fulfill the promise of the Messiah. The fact that he gathers the leaders shows his desire to reach his own people first and foremost. He is planting the seeds of God’s Kingdom in Rome.

Practical application: Seek to understand and engage with those who hold different beliefs. Communicate with respect and seek common ground.

Acts 28:23 (KJV): “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.”

Acts 28:23 (NKJV): “So when they had appointed him a day, many came to him at his lodging, to whom he explained and solemnly testified of the kingdom of God, persuading them concerning Jesus from both the Law of Moses and the Prophets, from morning till evening.”

Paul’s ministry in Rome continues even under house arrest. He expounds the kingdom of God, persuading them about Jesus from the Law and the Prophets. His method is consistent with the early Church – to demonstrate that Jesus is the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies. This illustrates the power of the Word of God to convict and transform hearts. Saint John Chrysostom wrote, “Η Γραφὴ πᾶσα θεόπνευστος καὶ ὠφέλιμος” (“All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful,” *Homilies on 2 Timothy*, Homily 9).

Practical application: Study the Scriptures diligently. Use the Word of God to teach, persuade, and encourage others.

Acts 28:26-27 (KJV): “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.”

Acts 28:26-27 (NKJV): “saying, ‘Go to this people and say: “Hearing you will hear, and shall not understand; And seeing you will see, and not perceive; For the hearts of this people have grown dull. Their ears are hard of hearing, And their eyes they have closed, Lest they should see with their eyes and hear with their ears, Lest they should understand with their hearts and turn, So that I should heal them.”’”

Paul quotes Isaiah 6:9-10 to explain the rejection of the Gospel by some. This highlights the spiritual blindness that prevents people from recognizing the truth. This is not a simple lack of intellectual understanding, but a deliberate closing of the eyes and ears to God’s revelation. The hardness of heart is a result of sin and resistance to the Holy Spirit. This reminds us of the importance of a humble and receptive heart when approaching the Scriptures and the Gospel.

Practical application: Examine your heart and ensure it is open to the leading of the Holy Spirit. Guard against spiritual pride and resistance to God’s truth.

Acts 28:28 (KJV): “Be it known therefore unto you, that the salvation of God is sent unto the Gentiles, and that they will hear it.”

Acts 28:28 (NKJV): “Therefore let it be known to you that the salvation of God has been sent to the Gentiles, and they will hear it!”

Paul’s declaration that salvation is sent to the Gentiles signifies a pivotal shift. The Jews, by rejecting the Gospel, have opened the door for the Gentiles to receive it. This does not mean that God has abandoned the Jews, but that His salvation is now extended to all who believe, regardless of ethnicity. The expansion of the Gospel to the Gentiles is a central theme in the Book of Acts, fulfilling God’s promise to Abraham that through his seed all nations would be blessed.

Practical application: Embrace the universality of the Gospel. Share the Good News with people from all backgrounds and cultures.

Acts 28:30-31 – Unhindered Proclamation

Acts 28:30-31 (KJV): “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.”

Acts 28:30-31 (NKJV): “Then Paul dwelt two whole years in his own rented house, and received all who came to him, preaching the kingdom of God and teaching the things which concern the Lord Jesus Christ with all confidence, no one forbidding him.”

The final verses of Acts emphasize Paul’s continued ministry in Rome, even under house arrest. He “received all who came to him,” preaching the kingdom of God and teaching about Jesus Christ “with all confidence, no one forbidding him.” This is a powerful testament to the unstoppable nature of the Gospel. Despite physical constraints, Paul’s spirit remains unbroken, and his message continues to spread. The fact that he preaches “no man forbidding him” is a sign of God’s providential protection. This shows that even in restrictions, there are opportunities for evangelism. Explore new opportunities for business with Dohost.

Practical application: Be bold and confident in sharing the Gospel, even in challenging circumstances. Look for opportunities to minister to others, regardless of limitations.

Key Reflections and Teachings

The concluding chapter of Acts provides several profound lessons:

• Divine Providence: God orchestrates events, even shipwrecks, for His purposes.
• Unwavering Faith: Paul’s faith remains steadfast despite trials and imprisonment.
• Universality of the Gospel: Salvation is offered to all, Jews and Gentiles alike.
• Power of the Word: The Scriptures have the power to convict and transform lives.
• Importance of Community: Christian fellowship provides support and encouragement.
• Bold Proclamation: Share the Gospel with confidence, regardless of circumstances.

FAQ ❓

Q: Why is the ending of Acts considered abrupt?

A: The Book of Acts ends with Paul under house arrest, but his ultimate fate isn’t revealed. This “open ending” suggests the ongoing work of the Holy Spirit and the continued expansion of the Gospel. It emphasizes the mission, not the individual’s destiny.

Q: What is the significance of Paul’s healing ministry on Malta?

A: Paul’s healing miracles demonstrated the power of God and validated his message. They also highlight the compassion of Christ and His desire to alleviate suffering. This is a direct reflection of the power of the early church.

Q: How does Acts 28 demonstrate the sovereignty of God?

A: Even in the midst of a shipwreck and imprisonment, God’s plan for Paul to reach Rome and proclaim the Gospel is fulfilled. God’s sovereignty is evident in His ability to use adverse circumstances to advance His Kingdom. Every obstacle he faces is a lesson from God.

Q: What does Paul’s ministry under house arrest teach us?

A: Paul’s example demonstrates that physical limitations cannot hinder the spread of the Gospel. He continued to preach and teach, even in confinement, proving that the message of Christ can overcome any obstacle. Ministry is an internal conviction.

Conclusion

Acts 28 serves as a powerful reminder of God’s sovereignty, the unwavering faith of Paul, and the unstoppable spread of the Gospel. Even under house arrest in Rome, Paul, with unwavering conviction, continues to proclaim God’s Kingdom in Rome. His ministry demonstrates that physical limitations cannot hinder the power of the Word. The chapter’s open ending encourages us to recognize that the mission of spreading the Gospel continues today, and we are all called to participate. Let us be inspired by Paul’s example to live boldly for Christ, sharing His message with confidence and compassion, knowing that God is with us, working through us, to bring His Kingdom to earth. The Word of God transcends any limitations.

Tags

Acts 28, Paul in Rome, Malta, shipwreck, healing, Gospel, Gentiles, House Arrest, Kingdom of God, Coptic Orthodox

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Explore Acts 28 verse-by-verse with an Orthodox commentary. Discover how Paul proclaimed God’s Kingdom in Rome despite adversity, and apply these lessons to your life.