Overview
After experiencing a violent storm at sea, Paul's ship was wrecked on the island of Melita (Acts 28:1). The islanders showed unusual kindness to the shipwrecked travelers, building a fire to warm them. During this time, Paul was miraculously unharmed when bitten by a viper, and he healed many of the island's sick residents through prayer, demonstrating God's power and validating his apostolic authority.
Key Scriptures
"And when they had escaped, they learned that the island was called Malta. And the native people showed us unusual kindness, for they kindled a fire and welcomed us all, because it had begun to rain and was cold" (Acts 28:1-2, ESV).
"But he shook off the creature into the fire and suffered no harm" (Acts 28:5, ESV).
"Now it happened that the father of Publius lay sick with fever and dysentery. And Paul visited him and prayed, and putting his hands on him healed him" (Acts 28:8, ESV).
Application
Trust that God's protection and purpose extend even into life's most turbulent circumstances, and recognize opportunities to minister His healing power to those around you.