Acts 28:8

Commentary on Acts 28:8 (KJV)

Acts 28:8 describes a significant event during the Apostle Paul's stay on the island of Malta, following his shipwreck. This verse highlights God's continued miraculous work through Paul, even in the midst of challenging circumstances.

Context

Having survived a tumultuous shipwreck (Acts 27), Paul and his companions landed on the island of Malta. Initially, the islanders, referred to as "barbarians" (meaning non-Greeks, not necessarily uncivilized), showed them "no little kindness" (Acts 28:2). After Paul miraculously survived a viper bite without harm, the islanders began to see him as more than an ordinary man, perhaps even a god. It is in this context that Publius, the "chief man of the island," extended hospitality to Paul and his company for three days. The healing described in this verse occurs during their stay with Publius, further cementing Paul's divine accreditation among the locals.

Key Themes

• Divine Healing: The verse powerfully demonstrates God's ability to heal severe illnesses through His servants. Publius's father was gravely ill, suffering from both a fever and a "bloody flux" (dysentery), a condition often fatal in ancient times.
• Apostolic Authority and Power: Paul's actions—entering, praying, and laying hands on the sick man—underscore the spiritual authority and power God had vested in him as an apostle. This echoes Paul's ministry of healing seen throughout the book of Acts.
• Compassion and Service: Despite being a shipwrecked prisoner, Paul demonstrates compassion by ministering to the sick. His actions are not for personal gain but out of genuine care and a desire to serve others, reflecting the love of Christ.
• God's Provision and Witness: This miracle served as a powerful witness to the inhabitants of Malta, opening doors for further ministry and leading to many other healings on the island (Acts 28:9). God used this act of kindness and healing to provide for Paul and his companions and to spread the Gospel.

Linguistic Insights

The term "bloody flux" translates the Greek word dysenteria (δυσεντερία), from which we derive the modern medical term "dysentery." This indicates a severe form of intestinal inflammation, often accompanied by fever and bloody stools, posing a significant health threat, especially in environments with poor sanitation. Paul's act of "laid his hands on him" (ἐπιθεὶς τὰς χεῖρας) was a common practice in the early church associated with healing and imparting spiritual blessings, signifying identification and spiritual transfer.

Practical Application

Acts 28:8 reminds believers of the enduring power of God to bring healing and restoration. It encourages us to:

• Exercise Compassion: Like Paul, we are called to be attentive to the needs of those around us, especially the sick and suffering, and to respond with practical care.
• Pray with Faith: The verse highlights the vital role of prayer in divine intervention. Paul prayed before laying hands on the man, demonstrating reliance on God's power, not his own. The power of prayer remains accessible to all believers.
• Be a Witness Through Action: Sometimes, our actions of love and service speak louder than words, opening doors for the Gospel message. Paul's healing ministry on Malta paved the way for the islanders to be receptive to his message.
• Trust God in Adversity: Even after a shipwreck, Paul continued to be an instrument in God's hands, illustrating that God can use us powerfully even in unexpected or difficult circumstances.