Acts 28:2

The islanders showed us extraordinary kindness. They kindled a fire and welcomed all of us because it was raining and cold.

Study Bible

The islanders
The term "islanders" refers to the inhabitants of Malta, where Paul and his companions were shipwrecked. In Greek, the word used is "βάρβαροι" (barbaroi), which originally meant non-Greek speakers but later came to denote those considered uncivilized by Greek standards. However, in this context, it simply identifies the local people of Malta, who were likely of Phoenician descent. Their actions defy the stereotype of "barbaroi," as they demonstrate remarkable hospitality and compassion.

showed us extraordinary kindness
The Greek word for "kindness" is "φιλανθρωπία" (philanthropia), which means love for mankind or benevolence. This phrase highlights the unexpected and generous hospitality of the Maltese people. In a world where shipwrecked strangers could easily be met with hostility or indifference, the islanders' actions reflect a universal moral law written on their hearts, as described in Romans 2:14-15. Their kindness serves as a powerful example of God's common grace at work in all humanity.

They kindled a fire
The act of kindling a fire is both practical and symbolic. Practically, it provided warmth and comfort to the shipwrecked survivors, who were cold and wet. Symbolically, fire represents light, warmth, and life, echoing the divine presence and care. In the Old Testament, fire often signifies God's presence, as seen in the burning bush (Exodus 3:2) and the pillar of fire (Exodus 13:21). Here, the fire kindled by the islanders can be seen as a manifestation of God's providence and care through human agency.

and welcomed all of us
The phrase "welcomed all of us" underscores the inclusivity and generosity of the Maltese people. The Greek word "προσελάβοντο" (proselabonto) implies a warm reception and acceptance. This act of hospitality is reminiscent of the biblical call to love the stranger and the sojourner, as seen in Leviticus 19:34 and Hebrews 13:2. It reflects the Christian virtue of hospitality, which is a tangible expression of God's love and grace.

because it was raining and cold
The mention of rain and cold sets the scene and underscores the dire circumstances faced by Paul and his companions. The harsh weather conditions highlight the vulnerability of the shipwrecked survivors and the necessity of the islanders' kindness. This detail serves as a reminder of God's provision in times of need, as He often uses others to meet our physical and emotional needs. It also illustrates the biblical principle that God works through ordinary people and circumstances to accomplish His purposes, as seen throughout the narrative of Acts.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Islanders (Barbarians)
The term used here in Greek is (barbaroi), which referred to non-Greek speakers. In this context, it describes the native people of Malta who showed hospitality to Paul and his companions.

2. Paul
The apostle who was shipwrecked on the island of Malta during his journey to Rome as a prisoner. His leadership and faith are evident throughout the account.

3. Malta
An island in the Mediterranean Sea where Paul and his companions were shipwrecked. The islanders' hospitality is a key focus in this passage.

4. Shipwreck
The event that led Paul and his companions to Malta. It was a result of a storm that had been described in the previous chapter.

5. Fire
The islanders kindled a fire to provide warmth and comfort to Paul and his companions, demonstrating their kindness and hospitality.

Teaching Points

The Power of Kindness
The islanders' extraordinary kindness serves as a powerful example of how simple acts of hospitality can have a profound impact. As Christians, we are called to show love and kindness to all, regardless of their background or beliefs.

God's Provision in Difficult Times
Despite the shipwreck and harsh conditions, God provided for Paul and his companions through the kindness of strangers. This reminds us that God can use unexpected people and circumstances to meet our needs.

Hospitality as a Witness
The islanders' actions opened the door for Paul to minister to them later in the chapter. Our hospitality can serve as a witness to others and create opportunities for sharing the Gospel.

Responding to Adversity with Faith
Paul’s calm and leadership during the shipwreck and his response to the islanders' kindness demonstrate a faith that trusts in God's sovereignty, even in adversity.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the kindness of the islanders in Acts 28:2 challenge our own attitudes towards strangers and those in need?

2. In what ways can we practice hospitality in our daily lives, and how might this reflect the love of Christ to others?

3. Reflect on a time when you experienced God's provision in an unexpected way. How did this strengthen your faith?

4. How can we ensure that our acts of kindness and hospitality are genuine and not motivated by a desire for recognition or reward?

5. Considering the connection to Hebrews 13:2, how can we be more aware of the opportunities to "entertain angels" in our interactions with others?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Hebrews 13:2
This verse encourages believers to show hospitality to strangers, as some have entertained angels without knowing it. The islanders' actions in Acts 28:2 exemplify this principle of hospitality.

Matthew 25:35-40
Jesus speaks about the importance of caring for others, including strangers, as a reflection of serving Him. The islanders' kindness to Paul and his companions can be seen as an embodiment of this teaching.

Romans 12:13
Paul himself later writes about the importance of practicing hospitality, which he experienced firsthand on Malta.