Acts 27:31

But Paul said to the centurion and the soldiers, "Unless these men remain with the ship, you cannot be saved."

Study Bible

Paul said
The Apostle Paul, a central figure in the New Testament, is speaking here. His authority is not just as a prisoner but as a man of God who has been given divine insight. The Greek word for "said" is "εἶπεν" (eipen), which implies a declaration or proclamation. Paul’s words carry weight because they are inspired by the Holy Spirit, reflecting his role as a prophet and leader among the early Christians.

to the centurion and the soldiers
The centurion, a Roman officer in charge of a hundred soldiers, represents the Roman authority. The soldiers are under his command. This phrase highlights the interaction between divine guidance and earthly authority. Historically, centurions were known for their discipline and leadership. Paul’s addressing them signifies the importance of his message, as it transcends social and military hierarchies.

Unless these men remain with the ship
This phrase underscores the necessity of obedience and unity. The Greek word for "remain" is "μείνωσιν" (meinōsin), which means to stay or abide. It reflects a spiritual principle of abiding in Christ for salvation. The ship symbolizes the church or the body of Christ, and the men represent believers. The historical context of sea travel in the ancient world, often perilous and unpredictable, serves as a metaphor for the Christian journey.

you cannot be saved
The Greek word for "saved" is "σωθῆναι" (sōthēnai), which means to be delivered or preserved. This phrase is both a physical and spiritual declaration. Physically, it refers to the immediate danger of the shipwreck. Spiritually, it echoes the necessity of remaining in Christ for eternal salvation. The historical context of salvation in the early church was not just about eternal life but also about deliverance from present trials through faith and obedience.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Paul
The apostle and central figure in this passage, who is on his way to Rome as a prisoner. He provides divine insight and guidance during the storm.

2. Centurion
A Roman officer in charge of Paul and other prisoners. He plays a crucial role in the decision-making process during the voyage.

3. Soldiers
Roman soldiers accompanying the centurion, responsible for maintaining order and ensuring the prisoners, including Paul, do not escape.

4. Ship
The vessel carrying Paul, the centurion, soldiers, and other passengers. It is caught in a severe storm, leading to a crisis situation.

5. Storm
A significant event that tests the faith and decision-making of all aboard the ship, setting the stage for Paul's declaration.

Teaching Points

Obedience to Divine Guidance
Just as Paul instructed the centurion and soldiers, obedience to God's guidance is crucial for salvation and deliverance.

Faith in Crisis
In times of crisis, faith in God's promises and His appointed leaders is essential for navigating through challenges.

Community and Unity
The necessity for all to remain on the ship highlights the importance of unity and collective action in the body of Christ.

Trust in God's Plan
Even when circumstances seem dire, trusting in God's plan and His messengers can lead to salvation and safety.

Leadership and Responsibility
Paul's role as a leader, despite being a prisoner, shows that God can use anyone to lead and provide wisdom in difficult situations.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Paul's directive to the centurion and soldiers reflect the importance of obedience to God's guidance in our lives?

2. In what ways can we see the theme of faith during a crisis in both Acts 27 and other biblical accounts like Jonah or Jesus calming the storm?

3. How does the requirement for everyone to stay on the ship illustrate the importance of unity and community in the church today?

4. What can we learn from Paul's leadership in this situation about how God can use us to influence others, regardless of our circumstances?

5. How can we apply the principle of trusting in God's plan, as demonstrated in Acts 27:31, to our personal challenges and uncertainties?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Jonah 1
Similar to Paul's situation, Jonah's account involves a storm at sea where divine intervention is necessary for salvation.

Matthew 8:23-27
Jesus calming the storm demonstrates His authority over nature, paralleling Paul's reliance on divine guidance during the storm.

Hebrews 11:7
Noah's faith in building the ark for salvation mirrors the necessity of faith and obedience in Paul's directive to stay with the ship.