Bible Commentaries
Acts 27

Verses 1-12

Act 27:1-12

PAUL’S VOYAGE TO ROME

Acts 27:1 to Acts 28:10

FROM CAESAREA TO CRETE

Acts 27:1-12

1 And when it was determined that we should sail for Italy,—We do not know how long Paul remained in Caesarea as a prisoner ; it seems that there had been some doubt whether he was to be sent to “Italy.” The time for sailing was now fixed. Luke and Aristarchus are now with Paul and are included in the “we” of this verse. Some think that Luke was allowed to go as an attendant or slave of Paul; this was permissible under Roman law. It is possible that Luke was not with Paul during his trials before Felix, Fes tus, and Agrippa. The details and minute accuracy of Luke’s account of this voyage and shipwreck reveal more about the ancient seafaring than may be read in other literature. “Other prisoners” and “a centurion named Julius” were with Paul. It is to be noted that Paul is classed with other prisoners. The Julian house, like the Cornelian (Acts 10:1), was an illustrious one in Italy. Julius, like other centurions mentioned in the New Testament (Matthew 8:5; Mark 15:39; Acts 10:1), commands our respect. “The Augustan band,” or “cohort,” is thought to have been a corps of legionary centurions; the Augustan band may have been an independent cohort assigned to that particular service, and known as the Augustan or Imperial, because it corresponded in some sense to the emperor’s lifeguard at Rome.

2 And embarking in a ship of Adramtyttium,—Paul’s voyage to Rome and the shipwreck as recorded in this chapter. The “Ship of Adramyttium” was a ship belonging to Adramyttium, a seaport of Mysia, on the western coast of Asia Minor, probably on its return journey from Caesarea. “Aristarchus, a Macedonian of Thessalonica" accompanied them. He is mentioned in Acts 19:29 Acts 20:4; Colossians 4:10; Philemon 1:24.

3 And the next day we touched at Sidon:—This was probably in August A.D. 59 or 60. Sidon was sixty-seven miles from Caesarea; it was the rival of Tyre. The ship stopped here for trade. Jalius was very kind to Paul and permitted him to leave the ship and visit for a while with “his friends and refresh himself.” It may be that he had received orders from Festus and Agrippa to treat Paul courteously. At any rate, he was very kind to Paul and granted him favors that other prisoners did not receive. Paul had time to receive some personal comforts and clothing for the voyage. After two years in prison at Caesarea we may well believe that such things would be needed and acceptable to Paul.

4 And putting to sea from thence,—The ship remained at Sidon long enough to transact some business, which gave Paul some time with his friends. They sailed from Sidon “under the lee of Cyprus,” which direction was northward along the coast, and by the east side of Cyprus past the northeast point of that island. Cyprus was thus on the left between the ship and the wind from the northwest. The Estesian winds were blowing from the northwest so that they could not go straight across from Sidon to Pa tara with Cyprus on the right. “Lee” is the side sheltered from the wind.

5 And when we had sailed across the sea—The winds seem to have driven them farther north than the direct course which they should have followed. They sailed across the sea “which is off Cilicia and Pamphylia.” The current runs westward along the coast of Cilicia and Pamphylia and the land would protect them from the wind. The ship came to Myra, “a city of Lycia.” Myra was about two and a half miles from the coast of Lycia; it was near the mouth of the river Andriacus; Myra was at one time the metropolis of Lycia. Lycia is a province joining Pamphylia on the west. It is thought that the ship spent fifteen days struggling along the Pamphylian coast.

6 And there the centurion found a ship of Alexandria—This ship was from Alexandria in North Africa; it was bound directly for Italy with a cargo of wheat on board and two hundred seventy-six passengers. It is thought to have been one of the fleet of grain ships in use to carry wheat from Egypt to Italy. It must have been driven out of its direct course by the wind. The Alexandrian ships were very large; the vessel was steered, not by a rudder, but by two broad oars, one on each side of the stern. The rig consisted of one, or more than one, large square sail; flags floated from the top of the mast, as in modern vessels. The ancients had no compass, and all charts and instruments were very imperfect. This rig was specially favorable for running with the wind, but they could sail within seven points of the wind; they could make about seven knots an hour. A “knot” is a nautical mile, or 6,085 feet; hence, it would sail about 8.5 miles. These merchant ships were very large and could carry ten or eleven hundred tons; Josephus states that the ship in which he was wrecked had six hundred persons on board. The centurion transferred his prisoners to this ship.

7 And when we had sailed slowly many days,—The ship was large and heavy laden; the wind was contrary and they made very slow progress for many days. The prevailing wind was northwest, which was contrary to their course; hence, the ship worked slowly along from Myra to Cnidus. The distance from Myra to Cnidus is about one hundred thirty miles, but it seems that they were two or three weeks in making the journey on account of the strong westerly winds. The general direction of the coast till they reached Cnidus was westward. The ship was protected from the north by the land, but was open to head winds from the west, against which they struggled slowly on. The ship on leaving Cnidus seems to have turned southwest and “sailed under the lee of Crete, over against Salmone.” Salmone was at the eastward end of the island of Crete; here they turned westward again and were protected from the northerly winds by the island of Crete; they sailed along the southern coast of Crete.

8 and with difficulty coasting along—They sailed along westward, protected by the island of Crete until they came to a place “called Fair Havens.” “Fair Havens” is on the south coast of Crete; it lies a few miles east of Cape Matala, beyond which the coast suddenly trends to the north. “Lasea,” the ruins of which were discovered in 1856, was about two hours’ walk from Fair Havens. Fair Havens and Lasea are not mentioned by any writer except Luke.

9 And when much time was spent,—Much time was spent at Fair Havens waiting for favorable weather or making arrangements for the continuation of the journey. “The voyage was now dangerous,” and Luke adds, “because the Fast was now already gone by.” The ancient considered navigation on the Mediterranean unsafe from early October until the middle of March; the most dangerous season was from the middle of September to the middle of November. Navigation on the open sea was discontinued during that season. In A.D. 59 the “Fast” occurred on October 5. The great Day of Atonement, as fixed by the law of Moses, occurred on the tenth day of Tisri (September-October). (Leviticus 16:29 Leviticus 23:27; Numbers 29:7.) It is not certain whether this was A.D. 59 or A.D. 60. In A.D. 60 the “Fast” occurred on September 23. Since Paul and his companions were accustomed to reckoning time from tne Day ot Atonement, it is natural for Luke, who traveled with Paul, to mention this “Fast.” “Paul admonished them” of the great danger, but it seems that they did not heed his admonition.

10 and said unto them, Sirs, I perceive—Paul warned the captain and centurion and others that “the voyage” would not only be dangerous, but “with injury and much loss.” Some think that a consultation was held whether they should remain in the harbor, which lay open to many winds, though sheltered from the northwest, or try to get to the safe harbor of Phoenix at the western end of the island. Paul had warned them that there would be much loss of property and lives if they continued at this time. It seems that they did not heed Paul’s warning; the centurion was in charge of the soldiers.

11 But the centurion gave more heed to the master—It is natural that the centurion who had charge of the soldiers would give more heed to what the captain and owner of the ship would say than to what a prisoner would say. The centurion was responsible for the soldiers, the prisoner, and the cargo of wheat; it was thought that this was a government ship. “Master” is from the Greek “kubernetei,” and means the steersman, pilot, sailing master. The centurion could not risk the criticism that would come upon him if he followed a prisoner’s advice rather than those who controlled the vessel.

12 And because the haven was not commodious—It seems that a conference was held with those in control as to what should be done. Luke gives Paul’s advice on the matter, and then states that there was division in judgment of the crew. The majority who advised the attempt to reach Phoenix were by no means sure that it would be successful—all were doubtful because of the present condition. Phoenix was a harbor in the south of Crete west from Fair Havens; it is said to be a safe harbor in winter, well closed in from the wind and from breakers; the harbor looked toward the east, or “looking northeast and southeast.” There are two ways of interpreting the Greek; one is looking southwest and northwest, and the other is “looking northeast and southeast.” It depends on the viewpoint from which one observed the harbor. If one is on the land and looks toward the harbor, the direction will be “northeast and southeast,” but if one is in the harbor and looking toward the land, it will be southwest and northwest. The better interpretation is as the Revised Version has it.

THE STORM AND SHIPWRECK

Acts 27:13-44

13 And when the south wind blew softly,—While in Fair Havens the stormy northwest wind ceased; a gentle breeze came from the south; they set sail for the harbor of Phoenix; they meant to keep close to the shore of Crete as it was safer. Phoenix was about forty miles west of Fair Havens on the southern shore of Crete. It was natural to hope that the south wind would continue long enough for them to sail the forty miles, as it would take but a few hours for the voyage. They were so sure that they did not even take up the boat that they were towing behind the ship; they took up anchor and sailed close to shore around Cape Matala, a point on the south side of Crete a few miles west of Fair Havens.

14 But after no long time—In a short time after they set sail a violent northeast wind came down on the ship from over the hills of Crete and they could not face it, and had to go before it. This “tempestuous wind” “is called Euraquilo.” “Euraquilo” describes the character of the wind; it comes from the Greek “Eurakulon,” and is not found anywhere else in the New Testament; it has been called a “hybrid” compounded of the Greek “euros,” meaning “east wind,” and the Latin “aquilo,” meaning “northeast.” The name here gives the direction of the wind.

15 and when the ship was caught,—The wind was so violent that the ship was unable to face it and go further but had to yield to the wind and be driven in its direction. The wind here is represented as seizing the ship so that it was not able to look in the eye of the wind; that is, to face it, and suddenly changed its course to the direction that the gale was going; the ship scudded before the wind.

16 And running under the lee of a small island—The ship was forced to run “under the lee” for protection there; a small island named “Cauda,” or “Clauda,” furnished the protection. Cauda was about twenty-three miles to the southwest of Crete. The ancients towed a small vessel behind, and it was very difficult to get this small vessel aboard. They were about to lose it. Luke uses the pronoun “we” which indicates that the passengers as well as the sailors were forced to work and help rescue the small boat; it had to be lifted on board the ship. Their future safety depended on their saving this boat.

17 and when they had hoisted it up,—An ancient ship with sails was exposed to extreme dangers from such bursts of wind ; the straining of the great sail on a single mast was more than the hull could bear, and the ship was exposed to the storm and in danger of foundering in the open sea. Hence, “under-girding,” with ropes or chains passing around the vessel, would help to hold the ship intact. Next they lowered all the sails, fearing that the gale might drive them southwest upon the “Syrtis,” which meant the great African quicksands. The greater and lesser “Syrtis” were on the north coast of Africa; the one was west of Cyrene, and the other near Carthage; they were the dread of Mediterranean sailors in Roman times. This verse does not imply that the ship was then near the Syrtis; the greater Syrtis is here meant. After making this preparation by girding the ship and lowering the sail, they let the vessel drift.

18-19 And as we labored exceedingly with the storm,—As the storm grew more furious the experienced sailors saw that the ship would not be able to weather it; hence, they put everyone to work. They labored with the storm the first day, and the second day they began to throw part of the cargo overboard. It is to be remembered that the ship was laden with wheat bound for Italy. The sailors and soldiers “with their own hands” on the third day threw overboard “the tackling of the ship.” “Tackling” is from the Greek “skeuen,” which means the furniture of the ship that could be spared. The danger was more imminent, and a part of the ship’s gear would not have been thrown overboard without urgent necessity. The danger was great and increasing every moment; they had now disposed of the cargo of wheat and must suffer the loss of the furniture or equipment of the ship. The “tackling” which they threw overboard must refer to that furniture which would be useless in time of storm.

20 And when neither sun nor stars shone—The weather was so cloudy, and the storm so furious and continued so long that the danger increased hourly. It should be remembered that the great reason which made ancient navigation perilous in winter was that the sky is then more overcast than at other seasons. They did not have efficient compass and were to large extent dependent upon the sun and stars for their bearings and steerings when the compass was not available. “All hope” of rescue was lost. Two stages in the progress of increasing fear have been mentioned; the third stage was absolute despair. It was at this psychological moment, when no escape through human agency was possible, that Paul interposed with divine encouragement. They did not know where they were drifting; no land was in sight; the ship was strained and possibly leaking; the tempest was high; and “all hope that we should be saved was now taken away.”

21 And when they had been long without food,—Another thing which increased the hardship during this emergency was the lack of regular food. The fires were put out; the provisions were soaked with water; every effort that could be suggested for safety of the lives and ship was made. In the midst of the storm, when gloom and despair had settled heavily upon all, Paul stood in their midst and said: “Sirs, ye should have hearkened unto me, and not have set sail from Crete.” He did not remind them of this in order to taunt them, but chiefly to impress them more forcibly with the counsel which he was now about to give. Paul interfered four times, twice unsuccessfully and twice successfully; he spoke twice from his own experience and good judgment; he spoke twice to tell his vision which promised them safety in the end. (See verses 10, 21-26, 31, 33-35.) Paul had advised them to winter in Fair Havens; his advice was discussed, but rejected. Paul was the only one who was calm and able to encourage the others by his message from God; he was the only one who could encourage them not to give way to despair, but keep up their strength for what was before them; Paul alone had the presence of mind to prevent the escape of the sailors.

22 And now I exhort you to be of good cheer;—Paul, a prisoner, assumes authority to give advice and encourage the company. No doubt Paul’s look and tone of voice helped his words to give encouragement to those in despair. It was unusual for a man, even a prisoner, to stand in the midst of a scene of misery and dejection with such calm confidence as Paul portrayed. Paul assured them that there would “be no loss of life among” them; he added that the only loss that would be sustained was the ship. No doubt that they were greatly encouraged when he gave the ground or basis of his encouragement.

23 For there stood by me this night an angel—Paul gave further reason for their taking courage; he recited his vision that night. Paul was a servant of God; he had committed his life to God and was in his care; hence, he was cheerful when others were disturbed, trustful when others doubted. Paul had seen an angel of God, and this angel had given courage to him. He now gives God the honor for his courage and assurance; he did not take any credit to himself as being wiser than others; he only pointed them to the God whom he served as being able to take care of him and others.

24 saying, Fear not, Paul;—This angel assured Paul that he should “stand before Caesar.” Paul had been praying, and the angel came in answer to his prayer, and gave him the courage that he now manifested. “God hath granted thee all them that sail with thee” shows that Paul had been praying, not only for himself and his Christian companions, but also for all on the ship. The lives of those that sailed with Paul had been presented to him as a gift. Since Paul was to stand before Caesar that meant that he would be brought safely through the present danger. There is no assurance here that all would become converted; only the safe arrival of all is meant.

25-26 Wherefore, sirs, be of good cheer:—The faith that Paul had in God gave him an advantage over the others; he was made both captain and pilot of the ship; his calmness and courage enabled him to take the place of the centurion in caring for the prisoners. The most useful man on board was Paul, because he believed in God and God took care of him. Paul spoke with assurance when he warned them that they should be “cast upon a certain island.” It is very probable that Paul preached the gospel to all that were on the ship, and gave them his reason for believing in God. Since he predicted that they would be cast upon a certain island, it appears that some details of the manner of their preservation had been made known to Paul by the angel.

27 But when the fourteenth night was come,—It is not clear as to the point of time that the “fourteenth night” is calculated; it is very probable that the time is reckoned from their leaving Fair Havens. The ship was driven “to and fro in the sea of Adria.” “Adria” was a name given to the wide sweep of the Mediterranean lying between Greece, Italy, and Africa; this was not the Adriatic Sea as we now know it. “About midnight the sailors” thought that “they were drawing near to some country.” Possibly the sound of the breakers, the white lines of foam seen through the darkness, were interpreted by the experienced sailors that they were drawing nigh to land. They did not know their location; hence, they did not know the country or land that they might be near; they were in total darkness and lost on the wild tempest of waters.

28 and they sounded, and found twenty fathoms;—“Sounded” is from the Greek “bolisantes,” and is apparently from “bolis,” which means “a missile or dart,” and hence to throw down the lead into the sea, to heave the lead, to take soundings. A “fathom” is reckoned as six feet; hence, the depth of the water at that point was one hundred twenty feet; however, “after a little space,” or “a little later,” they “sounded” again, and found the depth to be only “fifteen fathoms,” or about ninety feet; this was proof that a shore was near; they did not know what kind of shore, whether it was sandy or rocky; they feared that it was rocky.

29 And fearing lest haply we should be cast ashore—There was great fear that the ship would be cast upon a rocky shore; hence, “they let go four anchors from the stern.” These “four anchors” should be sufficient to hold the ship in position; however, it was unusual to anchor the ship from the “stern.” The usual way of anchoring a ship was from the bow. In this situation, had they anchored by the bow, the ship would have swung round from the wind and would have been more difficult to manage after the storm ceased. The harbor of St. Paul’s Bay, in Malta, is still good for small ships. The ship had been drifting since it left Cauda. It is about four hundred seventy-six miles from Cauda to Malta. The only thing that they could do would be to wait for daylight. If the sailors had headed the ship toward the northwest to keep it from being driven upon the quicksands, it would have been beaten back by the northeast gale and would have drifted westward.

30 And as the sailors were seeking to flee—The hour of danger naturally aroused the instinct of self-preservation to the exclusion of better feelings. It was easy for the sailors to urge that the ship needed anchors fore as well as aft, and, while pretending to be occupied about this, to lower the boat which they had before hoisted on deck (Acts 27:16), and so effect their escape. The boat, it might appear, was necessary to their purpose, as their aim was not merely to pass anchors from the bow, but to carry them out to the full tether of the cable’s length. This was a treacherous act on the part of the sailors.

31 Paul said to the centurion and to the soldiers,—The shrewd observance of Paul detected what the sailors were doing, and he spoke to the centurion, and to the soldiers. He said: “Except these abide in the ship, ye cannot be saved.” Paul had the courage to rebuke their action and to warn them of the danger of such a course. He had been assured of protection and safety by the angel of the Lord, but he could not supinely lie down and leave it all to God; he must do all that he could in order to be protected by God. The soldiers and prisoners could not handle the large ship under such critical conditions, so the presence and help of the sailors were essential to the safety of others. All should have been grateful to Paul for his thoughtful vigilance in these hours of darkness and danger.

32 Then the soldiers cut away the ropes—Apparently there were four classes on board the ship; namely (1) the officials, including captain, pilot, and centurion; (2) sailors; (3) soldiers; (4) prisoners. The sailors were attempting to flee, and when the soldiers heard what Paul had said they cut the rope by which the small ship had been lowered and let it fall off; this prevented the sailors from escaping. The soldiers settled the question with military promptitude. The boat was left to drift off into the darkness and perhaps was dashed to pieces on the rocks. God had promised Paul that all should be saved; hence, he insists that all cooperate harmoniously in order to fulfill that promise.

33 And while the day was coming on,—While they were waiting for day to dawn, Paul again assumes the lead and takes command and “besought them all to take some food.” Nothing could be done in the emergency until daylight; sleep was impossible; and anxiety and fear intense. Paul advised that since they had been fasting about fourteen days some food be taken. He knew that strength would be needed for hard work when morning came; he also knew that if they would take nourishment they would be encouraged for further duties. Soldiers and sailors would need something that would draw them together after the incident just mentioned; all were liable to be discouraged and irritable. It is not clear whether the waiting means fourteen days of continuous fasting, or only fourteen successive nights of eager watching without food. Paul probably means that they had taken no regular meals, and only bits of food now and then, as the word for “fasting” is not that which is commonly used in the New Testament to express entire abstinence from food.

34 Wherefore I beseech you to take some food:—Paul encouraged all of them “to take some food.” Paul had promised them their lives, but they must work and cooperate with him for their safety. Paul, a captive going to judgment, yet what a leader of men he is! It was necessary that they take nourishment for their “safety.” The Greek for “safety” is “soteria,” which means personal or physical “safety,” and not spiritual salvation. Paul meant that the preservation of his fellow passengers depended on their keeping up their strength. He reassures them that “not a hair” should “perish from the head of any of” them. This is a proverbial expression for safety. (1 Samuel 14:45; 2 Samuel 14:11; 1 Kings 1:52; Luke 21:18.)

35 And when he had said this,—Paul had given advice that they take some nourishment; he now sets the example by taking nourishment himself. Some have said that this was the Lord’s Supper to Paul, Luke, and Aristarchus; however, it appears to be only a common meal, as Paul had encouraged all to take nourishment. The Lord’s Supper was never intended to furnish physical nourishment to anyone. Paul “gave thanks to God” and then began to eat. “Thanks” is from the Greek “eucharistesen,” and means giving thanks, as did our Lord on different occasions. (Luke 24:30.)

36 Then were they all of good cheer,—Paul’s words and example inspired cheerfulness and courage. It is wonderful how one calm, deliberate person can have such influence on others. The cheerfulness and hopefulness of Paul had spread to the entire company ; they now looked to him as their friend and leader, and followed his example in eating. The giving of thanks to God called attention again of all to God, whom Paul served, and who had protected them and promised safety to them.

37 And we were in all in the ship—The number is here given, either as a fact that had been omitted before, and was not without its interest, or probably because then for the first time, they were all gathered at their meal. Luke, the writer, had taken the trouble to count them. These two hundred seventy-six were under the influence now of Paul. This was a large company to be on this ship; however, the grain ships were large and frequently carried passengers. Some have interpreted the Greek to mean seventy- six, as this number is found in some ancient manuscript; these manuscripts are not of sufficient weight to change the text.

38 And when they had eaten enough,—“Eaten” is from the Greek “koresthentes,” and means “to satisfy, to satiate.” Hence, they were filled. The first effect of this was seen in renewed activity for work. They began now to lighten the ship. The “wheat” which they now cast out was a part of. the cargo which had been reserved probably for provisions. It appears that they had only thrown overboard a part of the cargo as mentioned in verse 18. As they could no longer continue in the ship, it was not necessary to keep the ship burdened with this wheat. They hoped to keep the ship floating until they could reach the shore.

39 And when it was day, they knew not the land:—None of the sailors, neither the officers, recognized the land when daylight came. They perceived “a certain bay with a beach.” It was such a sandy beach as would suit to run the ship ashore. The main coast was not safe for such an attempt. Some think that it was strange that they did not know the land, for Melita was a well-known island, having an admirable harbor, familiar to Alexandrian sailors; however, these sailors were not at this moment in the harbor, but on a part of the coast which they had never before seen. They held a consultation together to decide what to do; they decided to attempt to run ashore. This required the help of experienced sailors, and showed that Paul was right in having the sailors kept on board. (See verse 31.)

40 And casting off the anchors,—“Casting off” is from the Greek “perielontes,” and literally means “having taken away from around”; that is, all four anchors from around the stern. These were left in the sea; they let the anchors go and the ropes fell down into the sea. They thought that they would have no further use for them. At the same time they loosed the bands of the rudders; the ancient ships were equipped with two rudders; these had been made fast and raised out of the water when the anchors were cast out. Since they now are to attempt to steer the ship toward the beach, they need to let down the rudders again into the water. Next, they hoisted “up the foresail to the wind.” “Foresail” is from the Greek “artemona,” and scholars have been puzzled as to which sail is indicated; the majority of scholars have agreed that it is “foresail.” This does not mean what we understand as the “mainsail.” “Wind,” as used here, means a breeze, and the change of words seems to imply that there was a lull in the fury

of the gale.

41 But lighting upon a place where two seas met,—Instead of landing on a smooth, sandy beach, the ship was run and grounded on a mudbank between the small island and the coast. Unexpectedly the ship stuck in this mud bar. The ship did not touch dry land, but stuck fast in the bank over which the water was too shallow to allow the ship to go further; they were still some distance from the shore. The waves swept through the channel behind the island and struck the stern of the ship sideways, and the ship began to break in pieces. Modern scholars who have attempted to trace the journey of Paul have found just such conditions as described here by Luke, showing the accuracy of his description. The front part of the ship was stuck in the mud, while the hind part was in deep water and exposed to the force of the two currents; it seems that the hinder part of the ship was broken of? and the entire crew and passengers crowded to the fore part.

42 And the soldiers’ counsel was to kill the prisoners,—The soldiers were as cruel as the sailors. (Acts 28:30.) The sailors were willing to leave the soldiers and prisoners to perish, and now the soldiers want to kill the prisoners. Their excuse was to keep any of them from escaping. The soldiers were responsible for the lives of the prisoners. (Acts 12:19.) The Roman law made the soldiers answerable with their own lives for the prisoners placed under their charge.

43 But the centurion, desiring to save Paul,—Paul had won the friendship of the centurion; he had been instrumental in saving the entire crew. The centurion was not without gratitude; hence, he would seek some way to save Paul. The centurion was in charge of the soldiers, and they must obey his command. He suggested as an alternative that the soldiers who could swim should “cast themselves overboard” and get to the land first; they could then take charge of the prisoners as they swam to land. The centurion was in full command of the soldiers; he had not in the confusion lost his thoughtfulness and presence of mind. By his suggestion there would be a body of soldiers ready on shore to help those who only could float thither by the aid of something to which they were clinging. We know that Paul had already been shipwrecked three times before this, and had been in the deep a night and a day. (2 Corinthians 11:15.) Hence, we may conclude that he was among those who swam to land. Many think that the centurion’s suggestion included not only the soldiers who could swim, but even the prisoners who could swim were commanded to go to shore. It is probable that this suggestion came from Paul, as he had had experience in such trials.

44 and the rest, some on planks,—This strengthens the idea that all who could swim, both soldiers and prisoners, were commanded to do so. The others were to float on planks and such other things as could be had from the ship. It appears that there had been some broken pieces of timber from the bulwarks, loose spears, tables, stools, and other pieces of furniture, which could be used by those who could not swim. ‘‘All escaped safe to the land.” This shows that Paul’s prophecy (Acts 27:24) was fulfilled; Paul, the prisoner, is the guide in the voyage, the hero in the shipwreck, and the example to all in calmness.

Verses 1-44

Act 27:1-44

THE PROMISE IS FOR ALL:

LESSONS FROM THE BOOK OF ACTS

Notes For Lesson Twenty-Five:

On the Way to Rome

(Acts 27:1-44)

At last, Paul was on his way to Rome, and even though he was a prisoner, he knew that many important opportunities awaited him there. But before he was to arrive in Rome, there were some new problems and crises that he would need to face. Even aside from the uncertainty that awaited him in Rome, he would find that the trip itself was filled with danger and suspense.

The Plans (Acts 27:1-12)

Luke describes in detail the preparations made to transport Paul to Rome. Luke himself was part of the traveling party, as shown by his use of "we" throughout the account of the journey. The preparations for the trip started well off Paul, with the centurion in charge treating him with favor. But conditions for the sea journey were not favorable, and it was not long before difficult decisions needed to be made.

Luke first tells of the preparations that were made for the trip (Acts 27:1-3). A centurion named Julius was placed in charge of Paul as well as some other prisoners who also were being sent to Rome*, and as the account of the trip goes on, it becomes clear that Julius makes the important decisions when they arise. The traveling party included at least two acquaintances of Paul, in Luke and Aristarchus. The ship made a preliminary one-day journey to Sidon, up the coast from Caesarea, and there the centurion graciously permitted Paul to go ashore, one of several signs we have seen that indicate that the Romans did not feel that Paul posed any threat to them.

*There are several possible reasons why a prisoner might be sent to Rome, so there is no way of telling whether any of these other prisoners was in a situation similar to Paul’s, or whether they were being transferred for other reasons.

But the trip was not an easy one, and the ship ran into slow going (Acts 27:4-8). Unable to catch a favorable wind, the ship made slow progress and had to alter its course somewhat, moving to the lee side of Cyprus (that is, east and north of the island) instead of taking the shorter route past the island through the open ocean. The ship then made slow progress along the coast of Cilicia and Pamphylia, before making a stop at Myra, just short of Asia. Since the ship itself was heading for a series of stops in Asia, the centurion then transferred Paul and the other prisoners to a different ship that was headed for Italy. But once again, the winds were not favorable, and Luke says that it took several days just to move a short ways down the coast to Cnidus. From there, the winds again forced the ship to alter its course, and to move around the far side of Crete, past Salmone on the east and finally arriving at Fair Havens on the south central coast of Crete.

All this slow sailing meant a lot of lost time, and called for a difficult decision (Acts 27:9-12). It was dangerous to sail the Mediterranean late in the fall, but ship’s captain and owner both wanted to make up for lost time, even if it meant a risk. Paul, never afraid to tell the truth, seems to have been the only one who spoke up to point out the dangers that the ship would face. But since Paul was only a prisoner, the centurion* chose instead to listen to those who advised him to have the voyage continue, and they thus sailed on, despite the dangers.

*The ship is described as Alexandrian, and was probably not a military vessel. Thus the centurion would have no official command status. Nevertheless, most ship owners or pilots would hardly have been willing to overrule a Roman officer’s wishes on a ship containing imperial prisoners. In effect, then, he makes the final decision.

For Discussion or Study: As we shall soon find out, the delays and the subsequent risky decision to continue will lead to danger and shipwreck. Why then did God permit it? Could he not have changed the winds to allow them to make more progress? What possible purpose could have been served by endangering Paul and the ship?

The Storm (Acts 27:13-26)

The decision to sail on was soon proved to be a bad one, as the ship encountered a dangerous storm, and found itself in increasing danger. The outlook quickly worsens to the point where the crew and passengers become certain that they are doomed. Paul, who had advised against the decision in the first place, now makes every effort to encourage the others with his own confidence.

Luke describes the situation as one of imminent danger (Acts 27:13-20). At first, everything seemed fine to everyone except the perceptive Paul. Upon deciding to sail from Fair Havens, a gentle wind began to blow in the right direction, and it suddenly seemed to the centurion and the captain as if their decision must have been the right one. Luke says that "they thought they had obtained what they wanted", a perspective which is always easy to fall into. But soon they are disillusioned, as a "northeaster" or violent storm arose, putting everyone in grave danger. The hurricane-force winds made it impossible to control the ship, and all the crew could do was to take desperate measures to avoid immediate disaster. They had to jettison a great deal of the ship’s cargo and equipment just to remain afloat, and after several days of this ordeal they began to give up any hope.

It was at this point that Paul took it upon himself to offer encouragement (Acts 27:21-26), and from this point on he plays a major role in events. He says honestly, but not spitefully, that this desperate situation was the result of a bad decision, reminding them of his good advice not out of malice but as an exhortation for them to listen now. He assures them that no one will die, openly telling them of the assurance God had given him. Paul knows that it is God’s plan for him to appear in Rome, and God had now told him that everyone traveling with him would also be rescued from the storm.

For Discussion or Study: Consider the chain of events that led to this crisis: the unexpected delays, the risky and ill-advised decision to sail, the apparent good start, the sudden storm, the despair, and finally Paul’s statements. What kinds of situations might we experience that would parallel this one? What lessons can we gain from this episode?

The Shipwreck (Acts 27:27-44)

After two weeks of constant danger and anxiety, the ship finally reaches land and runs aground. Paul himself is everywhere in the climactic stages of the shipwreck: giving advice, offering encouragement, and serving to prevent the arbitrary execution of the prisoners the ship was carrying. His earlier prediction proves true when everyone finally reaches shore safely.

After two weeks of being blown across the ocean by the storm, the ship began to near land (Acts 27:27-38), as the sailors discovered when their soundings showed the depth dropping quickly, indicating that they were nearing an unseen island. The first reaction of the sailors is not relief, but fear, as they worry that the ship may be crushed against a rocky shoreline. When the crew thus plan a cowardly escape in the lifeboat, Paul himself foils the plan by alerting the Roman soldiers, who jettison the lifeboat to ensure that the crew will land the ship for them. As they near the inevitable collision with the island, Paul continues to offer advice and encouragement. Again he reassures everyone that their lives are safe, and he also counsels them to eat while they have the chance.

Soon afterwards, the ship runs aground (Acts 27:39-44). Once daylight comes, they can sight land, though no one is able to recognize their location. Knowing that the landing will be rough, the crew takes proper precautions, but one more crisis remains. When the ship hits a sandbar some distance from the island itself, the soldiers realize that they may not be able to control the prisoners, and from their perspective it would be better to have them dead than to have them escape. The centurion himself intervenes, only because of his personal regard for Paul, who must have struck him as a most unusual prisoner. Thus everyone is able to scramble to shore safely. The account of the voyage is exciting, and in Paul it also presents us with quite an example of faith during a crisis.

For Discussion or Study: Take note of all of the ways that Paul makes his presence felt during this ongoing crisis. What can we learn and apply to situations we may face?

- Mark W. Garner, August 2002

Questions on Acts

By E.M. Zerr

Acts Chapter 27

• · What voyage was now determined upon?

• · Who are "they" of the first verse?

• · What was Julius?

• · Was Paul the only prisoner?

• · By what coast did they plan to sail?

• · What man was with them?

• · At what place did they first touch land?

• · State the favors shown to Paul.

• · How was sailing after they launched again?

• · Where did they change ships?

• · On what vessel did they continue the journey?

• · How was sailing for some days now?

• · Near what important island did they sail?

• · Unto what place did they come?

• · Were they making good progress now?

• · State the condition of sailing.

• · What fast is meant in the eleventh verse?

• · How did this affect the nature of the sailing?

• · What did Paul do at this time?

• · Tell what he predicted.

• · Whose word was preferred to his?

• · Why did the majority wish to leave the haven?

• · At what place did they desire to winter?

• · Of what island was this haven?

• · What directions did it serve?

· What condition misled them into sailing?

· Tell what misfortune soon carne upon them,

· How were they forced to sail?

· Near what island did they float?

· What difficulty did they encounter?

· Tell what they did to strengthen the ship.

· What were they fearing would happen?

· How did they try to avoid it?

· What was done next day as a safety measure?

· State what caused them to do this.

• · On the third day what was done?

• · Describe the condition in nature for some days.

• · What effect did it have on the party?

• · How were they observing the time as to food?

• · What rebuke did Paul then give them?

• · Also state the cheery words he gave them?

• · From whom had he received this word?

• · What definite predictions had God made for him?

• · And what delay in the journey did Paul predict?

• · On what body of water are they now sailing?

• · What was discovered about midnight?

• · Why did they cast anchor?

• · Tell what the shipmen planned on doing?

• · How were they prevented?

• · What instructions did Paul now give to eating?

• · State the next safety measure used.

• · What move did they attempt for landing?

• · With what results?

• · What would the soldiers have done to the prisoners?

• · For whose sake was it prevented?

• · Give the orders of the centurion.

• · How many reached land?

Acts Chapter Twenty-Seven

Ralph Starling

Time arrived for Paul’s trip to Rome.

There were other prisoners, he wasn’t alone.

After several ports we came to a city, Lycia,

And boarded a ship bound for Italy.

This time of the year the sailing was dangerous.

The attitude of everyone was serious.

With Paul’s knowledge he gave this advice.

To sail now will be risking our lives.

The sailors listened but thought they knew better.

So, they set the sails and released the rudder.

Sailing by Crete the winds became wild

The ship was caught and they let her drive.

The third day they had to lighten the ship.

Days passed but the winds didn’t lift.

Paul reminded them of what he had to say,

But they didn’t listen and sailed anyway.

Yes, we are in trouble but be of good cheer.

The Lord said, I must see Caesar.

True to his word they did reach land,

But the ship became broken and stuck in the sand.

Howe were they now to leave the ship?

By swimming and holding broken board chips.

Is soon came to pass,

All escaped and were safe at last.