27:31 27:31

Acts 27:32

27:33 27:33

Bible Versions

Then the soldiers cut off the ropes of the boat, and let her fall off.
Then {G5119} the soldiers {G4757} cut off {G609} the ropes {G4979} of the boat {G4627}, and {G2532} let {G1439} her {G846} fall off {G1601}.
Then the soldiers cut the ropes holding the lifeboat and let it go.
So the soldiers cut the ropes to the lifeboat and set it adrift.
Then the soldiers cut away the ropes of the boat, and let her fall off.

Commentary on Acts 27:32 (KJV)

Acts 27:32: "Then the soldiers cut off the ropes of the boat, and let her fall off."

Context

This verse is a crucial moment in the dramatic account of Paul's perilous voyage to Rome, specifically during a violent storm that threatens the ship and all its passengers and crew. Earlier, Paul had received a divine assurance that no life would be lost, though the ship itself would be destroyed (Acts 27:22-24). Despite this promise, the seasoned sailors, seeing no hope, attempted to abandon ship under false pretenses, trying to lower the small skiff (the "boat" mentioned here) into the sea (Acts 27:30). Paul, discerning their true intentions, immediately warned the Roman centurion, Julius, and the soldiers that if these men did not remain on board, the lives of the others could not be saved (Acts 27:31). This verse describes the decisive action taken by the soldiers in response to Paul's urgent warning.

Key Themes

  • Obedience and Decisive Action: The soldiers' immediate and unwavering obedience to the centurion's command (which was based on Paul's counsel) highlights the importance of decisive leadership and swift action in a crisis. Their prompt intervention prevented a potentially catastrophic loss of life.
  • Divine Providence and Human Responsibility: Although God had guaranteed the safety of all on board, this promise did not negate the need for human cooperation and practical wisdom. The cutting of the ropes was a necessary human act that ensured the divine promise could be fulfilled. This illustrates that God often works through human means and agency.
  • Preservation of Life: The primary motivation behind this action was the preservation of all lives. By cutting off the skiff, the soldiers eliminated the sailors' escape route, forcing them to remain on the main vessel and contribute their nautical expertise, which would be vital in the upcoming shipwreck (Acts 27:44).

Linguistic Insights

The Greek word for "cut off" (ἀποκόπτω - apokoptō) implies a decisive, forceful severance, not merely an untying. This emphasizes the urgency and finality of the soldiers' action. The "boat" (σκάφη - skaphē) refers specifically to the ship's lifeboat or dinghy, which was being used in the sailors' deceitful attempt to abandon the larger vessel.

Practical Application

This verse offers powerful lessons for believers today:

  • Trusting God, Acting Wisely: While we trust in God's promises and His divine providence, we are also called to exercise wisdom, discernment, and practical action. Faith is not passive; it often involves active obedience and responsible decision-making.
  • Leadership and Discernment: Paul, though a prisoner, demonstrated spiritual discernment and practical leadership in a critical moment. He recognized the deception and spoke up, prompting the authorities to act for the common good. This reminds us to listen to wise counsel, regardless of its source, and to act decisively when lives or critical outcomes are at stake.
  • Working Together for Salvation: The incident highlights the interconnectedness of people and the need for everyone to contribute to the common good, especially in times of crisis. The skilled sailors were needed to navigate the impending shipwreck, and their forced presence ensured the survival of the entire group.
Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

  • Philippians 3:7

    But what things were gain to me, those I counted loss for Christ.

  • Philippians 3:9

    ¶ And be found in him, not having mine own righteousness, which is of the law, but that which is through the faith of Christ, the righteousness which is of God by faith:

  • Luke 16:8

    And the lord commended the unjust steward, because he had done wisely: for the children of this world are in their generation wiser than the children of light.
 Back

Search Scripture