Acts 28:8

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.

KJV (with Strong's)

And {G1161} it came to pass {G1096}, that the father {G3962} of Publius {G4196} lay {G2621} sick of {G4912} a fever {G4446} and {G2532} of a bloody flux {G1420}: to {G4314} whom {G3739} Paul {G3972} entered in {G1525}, and {G2532} prayed {G4336}, and laid {G2007} his hands {G5495} on {G2007} him {G846}, and healed {G2390} him {G846}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Now it so happened that Publius’ father was lying in bed, sick with fever attacks and dysentery. Sha’ul went in to him, prayed, placed his hands on him and healed him.

Berean Standard Bible

The father of Publius was sick in bed, suffering from fever and dysentery. Paul went in to see him, and after praying and placing his hands on him, he healed the man.

American Standard Version

And it was so, that the father of Publius lay sick of fever and dysentery: unto whom Paul entered in, and prayed, and laying his hands on him healed him.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Acts 28:8 recounts a pivotal moment during the Apostle Paul's unexpected stay on the island of Malta following a shipwreck. It details the miraculous healing of Publius's father, who was gravely ill with a fever and dysentery. This event, initiated by Paul's compassionate prayer and the laying on of hands, powerfully demonstrates God's continued miraculous work through His servant, further validating Paul's apostolic authority and opening doors for the Gospel on the island.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is situated early in the final chapter of Acts, following the dramatic account of Paul's shipwreck on his journey to Rome as a prisoner ([Acts 27](/acts/27 "Acts 27 - Paul's Voyage and Shipwreck")). Upon landing on Malta, the islanders, though considered "barbarians" (non-Greeks) by the Romans, showed the shipwrecked survivors "no little kindness" by building a fire for them in the cold rain ([Acts 28:1-2](/acts/28-1-2 "Acts 28:1-2 - Arrival on Malta")). Immediately prior to this healing, Paul miraculously survived a viper bite without harm, leading the locals to initially believe he was a god ([Acts 28:3-6](/acts/28-3-6 "Acts 28:3-6 - Paul's Viper Bite")). Publius, the "chief man of the island," then extended hospitality to Paul and his companions for three days ([Acts 28:7](/acts/28-7 "Acts 28:7 - Publius's Hospitality")). The healing of Publius's father, described in this verse, is the direct result of this hospitality and further solidifies Paul's divine accreditation among the Maltese, setting the stage for subsequent healings and a fruitful three-month stay on the island ([Acts 28:9-10](/acts/28-9-10 "Acts 28:9-10 - Further Healings and Provisions")).

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Malta, a strategically located island in the central Mediterranean, was a Roman province at the time. Publius, referred to as the "chief man of the island" (πρῶτος τῆς νήσου, *protos tēs nēsou*), was likely the Roman governor or a highly influential local magistrate, indicating his significant status. The illnesses mentioned—fever and "bloody flux" (dysentery)—were common and often fatal in the ancient world, particularly in areas with poor sanitation and limited medical knowledge. Dysentery, an acute intestinal infection, would have been debilitating and life-threatening, making the healing a profound and undeniable miracle. The practice of "laying on of hands" was a recognized custom in both Jewish and early Christian traditions, associated with blessing, commissioning, and imparting spiritual power or healing, signifying a direct channel for divine intervention.

* **Key Themes:** Acts 28:8 contributes significantly to several overarching themes within the book of Acts and broader biblical narrative. Firstly, it powerfully underscores the theme of **Divine Providence and Sovereignty**, demonstrating God's meticulous care for Paul and His overarching plan to bring the Gospel to Rome, even through a shipwreck. God uses unexpected circumstances to advance His kingdom. Secondly, the verse highlights **Apostolic Authority and Miraculous Power**, showcasing God's continued empowerment of His apostles with signs and wonders to authenticate their message. Paul's healing ministry here echoes earlier accounts of divine healing throughout Acts, such as Peter's healing of Aeneas in [Acts 9:32-35](/acts/9-32-35 "Acts 9:32-35 - Peter Heals Aeneas") or Paul's own healing of a lame man in [Acts 14:8-10](/acts/14-8-10 "Acts 14:8-10 - Paul Heals a Lame Man in Lystra"). Finally, it exemplifies **Compassion and Witness**, as Paul, despite being a prisoner, acts out of genuine care for the suffering, turning a personal crisis into an opportunity for demonstrating God's love and power, thereby opening doors for the spread of the Gospel on Malta.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **dysentery (Greek, _dysentería'_):** (G1420) This term precisely describes a "bloody flux," a severe intestinal inflammation often accompanied by fever and bloody stools. Its inclusion emphasizes the gravity of Publius's father's condition, highlighting that the healing was from a life-threatening illness, not a minor ailment, thus underscoring the miraculous nature of Paul's intervention.
* **prayed (Greek, _proseúchomai'_):** (G4336) This word signifies a deliberate act of supplicating or worshipping God. Paul's prayer before laying hands on the sick man is crucial; it demonstrates his reliance not on his own inherent power, but on God's divine authority and ability. It establishes that the healing was an act of God, channeled through Paul's intercession.
* **healed (Greek, _iáomai'_):** (G2390) This verb means "to cure" or "to make whole," whether literally or figuratively. In this context, it denotes a complete and immediate restoration of health, not merely a temporary alleviation of symptoms. The use of this word confirms the efficacy and totality of the divine intervention, signifying a true miracle.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And it came to pass, that the father of Publius lay sick of a fever and of a bloody flux:"** This clause sets the scene, introducing the dire medical condition of Publius's father. The phrase "it came to pass" (Greek, *egeneto*) often signals a divinely ordained event in biblical narrative, suggesting that this illness and subsequent healing were part of God's larger plan for Paul's ministry on Malta. The dual afflictions of fever and dysentery indicate a severe, life-threatening illness, painting a vivid picture of the man's suffering.
* **"to whom Paul entered in, and prayed,"** This part describes Paul's compassionate and decisive action. Paul, a shipwrecked prisoner, takes the initiative to minister to his host's ailing father. His act of "entering in" signifies personal engagement and empathy. Crucially, Paul "prayed" before acting, indicating that his power was derived from God and that prayer was the essential conduit for divine intervention, demonstrating his dependence on the Lord.
* **"and laid his hands on him, and healed him."** This final segment details the physical act accompanying the prayer and the miraculous outcome. "Laying hands" was a common practice in the early church for conveying blessing, commissioning, or as a means through which divine healing or spiritual gifts were imparted. This physical touch served as a tangible expression of Paul's spiritual authority and God's power. The immediate and complete healing of Publius's father is the ultimate demonstration of God's power working through Paul, providing irrefutable evidence of the divine presence among them.

#### Literary Devices
The narrative of Acts 28:8 effectively employs several literary devices. **Irony** is present in Paul's situation: a prisoner, shipwrecked and dependent on the hospitality of strangers, becomes the channel of divine power and blessing for his hosts. This subverts typical expectations, highlighting God's ability to work through unlikely means. The verse also utilizes **Juxtaposition** by placing the severe, life-threatening illness ("fever and of a bloody flux") directly against the immediate and complete healing ("and healed him"). This sharp contrast emphasizes the miraculous nature of the event. Furthermore, the precise sequence of Paul's actions—entering, praying, laying hands, and healing—creates a sense of **Narrative Progression** that builds to the powerful climax of the miracle, underscoring the deliberate and effective nature of God's intervention through Paul.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Acts 28:8 profoundly illustrates God's active involvement in human affairs, demonstrating His compassion and power through the ministry of His servants. This healing is not merely a display of supernatural power but a tangible manifestation of God's kingdom breaking into the present reality, bringing restoration and wholeness. It underscores the theological truth that God is the ultimate healer, and He often chooses to work through human instruments who are yielded to His will and reliant on His power through prayer. The miracle also serves as a powerful validation of Paul's apostolic message, confirming that he was indeed a messenger sent by God, and preparing the hearts of the Maltese people for the spiritual truths of the Gospel.

* [Mark 16:17-18](/mark/16-17-18 "Mark 16:17-18 - Signs Following Believers")
* [James 5:14-15](/james/5-14-15 "James 5:14-15 - Prayer for the Sick")
* [Acts 3:6-8](/acts/3-6-8 "Acts 3:6-8 - Peter Heals the Lame Man")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Acts 28:8 offers profound insights for contemporary believers, reminding us that God's power to heal and restore is timeless and accessible. Paul's actions on Malta call us to cultivate a heart of compassion, always attentive to the suffering of those around us, regardless of our own circumstances. Even in moments of personal vulnerability or hardship, like Paul's shipwreck, we are called to be instruments of God's grace and love. The emphasis on prayer before the laying on of hands highlights the indispensable role of humble reliance on God in all our efforts to minister to others. This passage encourages us to pray with fervent faith for those who are sick, recognizing that true healing comes from God. Moreover, it teaches us that acts of service and compassion, empowered by God, can be powerful witnesses to the Gospel, opening doors for spiritual conversations and demonstrating the tangible love of Christ to a watching world. Our good deeds, done in the Spirit, can pave the way for the message of salvation.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the account of Paul healing Publius's father challenge or expand my understanding of God's power and presence in the world today?**
* **In what practical ways can I, like Paul, demonstrate compassion and actively seek to alleviate the suffering of those in my community?**
* **What does Paul's example of praying before acting teach me about my own reliance on God in ministry and daily life?**
* **How might God be calling me to be a witness through my actions and service, even in unexpected or challenging circumstances?**

### FAQ

**Was this healing a common occurrence for Paul, and why were such miracles significant?**

Answer: Yes, the book of Acts records numerous instances of Paul performing miracles, including healings, as a consistent feature of his apostolic ministry. These miracles, such as the healing of the lame man in Lystra ([Acts 14:8-10](/acts/14-8-10 "Acts 14:8-10 - Paul Heals a Lame Man in Lystra")) or the "special miracles" performed through his handkerchiefs and aprons in Ephesus ([Acts 19:11-12](/acts/19-11-12 "Acts 19:11-12 - Special Miracles by Paul")), served as powerful signs and wonders. Their significance lay in their role as divine authentication of Paul's message and his apostolic authority. In a world where claims of divine power were common, genuine miracles provided irrefutable evidence that Paul's message was from the one true God, opening hearts and minds to the Gospel.

**What was "bloody flux" and why was its healing particularly remarkable?**

Answer: "Bloody flux" is the King James Version translation of the Greek word *dysentería*, which refers to dysentery, a severe intestinal infection characterized by inflammation, abdominal pain, and often bloody diarrhea. In the ancient world, without modern medicine and sanitation, dysentery was a highly contagious and frequently fatal disease, especially for the elderly or those with weakened immune systems. The fact that Publius's father was not only sick with dysentery but also a fever indicates a very serious, life-threatening condition. Paul's immediate and complete healing of such a severe and often deadly illness made the miracle exceptionally remarkable and undeniable, demonstrating a profound supernatural intervention.

**Why did Paul lay his hands on Publius's father, and what does this practice signify in the Bible?**

Answer: Paul laid his hands on Publius's father as a physical action accompanying his prayer, through which God's healing power was manifested. The laying on of hands is a practice with deep roots in biblical tradition, signifying various spiritual acts. In the Old Testament, it was used for blessing, consecration, and imparting authority. In the New Testament, particularly in the ministry of Jesus and the apostles, it was frequently associated with healing ([Mark 6:5](/mark/6-5 "Mark 6:5 - Jesus Heals a Few in Nazareth"), [Luke 4:40](/luke/4-40 "Luke 4:40 - Jesus Heals Many at Sunset")) and the imparting of the Holy Spirit or spiritual gifts ([Acts 8:17](/acts/8-17 "Acts 8:17 - Peter and John Lay Hands on Samaritans"), [Acts 19:6](/acts/19-6 "Acts 19:6 - Paul Lays Hands on Ephesian Disciples")). In this context, it served as a tangible point of contact, a visible sign of identification, and a channel through which God's power flowed to bring about healing, demonstrating that the miracle was not by Paul's own power but by God's.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The healing of Publius's father by Paul on Malta, while a powerful demonstration of apostolic authority, finds its ultimate Christ-centered fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Christ Himself. Paul's ministry of healing was a continuation and extension of Jesus's own earthly ministry, where He consistently healed the sick, cast out demons, and raised the dead, thereby demonstrating the inbreaking of the Kingdom of God ([Matthew 4:23](/matthew/4-23 "Matthew 4:23 - Jesus Teaching and Healing")). Jesus is the ultimate Healer, and His compassion for the suffering was a hallmark of His earthly walk. The physical healing of Publius's father points to the far greater spiritual healing and redemption that Christ offers through His atoning sacrifice on the cross. Just as Publius's father was made whole from his physical ailment, humanity is offered wholeness from the sickness of sin through faith in Christ. The prophetic words of [Isaiah 53:4-5](/isaiah/53-4-5 "Isaiah 53:4-5 - The Suffering Servant"), "Surely he has borne our griefs and carried our sorrows... and with his stripes we are healed," find their complete fulfillment in Jesus, who not only healed physical infirmities but bore the ultimate spiritual disease of sin, offering eternal life and reconciliation with God ([1 Peter 2:24](/1_peter/2-24 "1 Peter 2:24 - By His Wounds You Were Healed")). Paul, as an apostle, acted as Christ's ambassador, embodying His compassion and wielding His power, thereby drawing people to the one who is the source of all healing and reconciliation ([Colossians 1:19-20](/colossians/1-19-20 "Colossians 1:19-20 - Christ's Fullness and Reconciliation")).

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.

Cross-References

Acts 9:40

But Peter put them all forth, and kneeled down, and prayed; and turning [him] to the body said, Tabitha, arise. And she opened her eyes: and when she saw Peter, she sat up.

Mark 6:5

And he could there do no mighty work, save that he laid his hands upon a few sick folk, and healed [them].

James 5:14

Is any sick among you? let him call for the elders of the church; and let them pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord:

James 5:16

Confess [your] faults one to another, and pray one for another, that ye may be healed. The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much.

Matthew 9:18

¶ While he spake these things unto them, behold, there came a certain ruler, and worshipped him, saying, My daughter is even now dead: but come and lay thy hand upon her, and she shall live.

Mark 16:18

They shall take up serpents; and if they drink any deadly thing, it shall not hurt them; they shall lay hands on the sick, and they shall recover.

1 Corinthians 12:28

And God hath set some in the church, first apostles, secondarily prophets, thirdly teachers, after that miracles, then gifts of healings, helps, governments, diversities of tongues.