Acts 27:1

¶ And when it was determined that we should sail into Italy, they delivered Paul and certain other prisoners unto [one] named Julius, a centurion of Augustus' band.

And {G1161} when {G5613} it was determined {G2919} that we {G2248} should sail {G636} into {G1519} Italy {G2482}, they delivered {G3860}{G5037} Paul {G3972} and {G2532} certain {G5100} other {G2087} prisoners {G1202} unto one named {G3686} Julius {G2457}, a centurion {G1543} of Augustus {G4575}' band {G4686}.

Once it had been decided that we should set sail for Italy, they handed Sha’ul and some other prisoners over to an officer of the Emperor’s Regiment named Julius.

When it was decided that we would sail for Italy, Paul and some other prisoners were handed over to a centurion named Julius, who belonged to the Imperial Regiment.

And when it was determined that we should sail for Italy, they delivered Paul and certain other prisoners to a centurion named Julius, of the Augustan band.

Commentary

Acts 27:1 marks the commencement of a pivotal journey for the Apostle Paul, as he begins his voyage to Rome to stand trial before Caesar. This verse sets the stage for a dramatic and divinely orchestrated passage, highlighting God's sovereign hand in Paul's life and ministry, even amidst challenging circumstances.

Historical and Cultural Context

After being held prisoner for two years in Caesarea (Acts 24:27) and appealing to Caesar in Acts 25:11, Paul is finally being transported to Rome. This was standard procedure for Roman citizens who appealed their case to the emperor. The journey to Italy, specifically Rome, was a long and often perilous sea voyage, especially outside of the calmer summer months. Paul, though innocent, was treated as a prisoner, highlighting the cost and sacrifice involved in spreading the Christian message in the Roman Empire.

The individual entrusted with Paul and other prisoners was Julius, a centurion of Augustus' band. A centurion was a highly respected and experienced Roman military officer, typically commanding around 100 soldiers. The phrase "Augustus' band" (Greek: speira Sebastē) likely refers to a prestigious imperial cohort, possibly one associated with the emperor's personal guard or a special detachment. This suggests Paul was placed under the care of a reputable and perhaps influential officer, foreshadowing the relatively favorable treatment Paul would receive during his arduous journey (Acts 27:3).

Key Themes and Messages

  • Divine Purpose Amidst Adversity: Despite being a prisoner, Paul's journey to Rome was part of God's ultimate plan, as revealed to Paul earlier in Acts 23:11: "Be of good cheer, Paul: for as thou hast testified of me in Jerusalem, so must thou bear witness also at Rome." This demonstrates God's ability to use even imprisonment to advance His kingdom.
  • The Start of a Significant Mission: This verse marks the beginning of the final leg of Paul's travels recounted in Acts, leading him to the heart of the Roman Empire, where he would continue to preach the Gospel.
  • Roman Authority and Justice System: The passage underscores the pervasive power of the Roman legal and military structures, which determined Paul's fate and mode of travel.

Linguistic Insights

The term "Augustus' band" translates the Greek speira Sebastē. Speira refers to a cohort, typically a unit of 600 soldiers. Sebastē is the Greek equivalent of the Latin "Augustus," an imperial title. This specific designation highlights the imperial connection of Julius's unit, indicating its high standing within the Roman military hierarchy.

Practical Application

Acts 27:1 reminds believers that God's purposes are not thwarted by human circumstances, even difficult ones like imprisonment or forced travel. Just as Paul's journey to Rome was part of God's plan for the spread of the Gospel, so too can our challenging situations be avenues through which God works. It encourages us to trust in divine providence, knowing that God can use unexpected individuals and circumstances to fulfill His will and bring us to where we need to be for His glory.

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Cross-References

  • Acts 25:25 (9 votes)

    But when I found that he had committed nothing worthy of death, and that he himself hath appealed to Augustus, I have determined to send him.

  • Acts 10:1 (5 votes)

    ¶ There was a certain man in Caesarea called Cornelius, a centurion of the band called the Italian [band],

  • Acts 25:12 (5 votes)

    Then Festus, when he had conferred with the council, answered, Hast thou appealed unto Caesar? unto Caesar shalt thou go.

  • Acts 18:2 (4 votes)

    And found a certain Jew named Aquila, born in Pontus, lately come from Italy, with his wife Priscilla; (because that Claudius had commanded all Jews to depart from Rome:) and came unto them.

  • Acts 27:11 (4 votes)

    Nevertheless the centurion believed the master and the owner of the ship, more than those things which were spoken by Paul.

  • Hebrews 13:24 (3 votes)

    Salute all them that have the rule over you, and all the saints. They of Italy salute you.

  • Acts 24:23 (2 votes)

    And he commanded a centurion to keep Paul, and to let [him] have liberty, and that he should forbid none of his acquaintance to minister or come unto him.