Acts 27:19

On the third day, they threw the ship's tackle overboard with their own hands.

Study Bible

On the third day
This phrase marks a significant point in the narrative, indicating the passage of time and the increasing severity of the situation. In biblical terms, the "third day" often symbolizes a moment of divine intervention or a turning point, as seen in the resurrection of Jesus Christ. The use of "third day" here may suggest a moment of critical decision-making and action, reflecting the urgency and desperation of those on board the ship.

they threw the ship’s tackle overboard
The act of throwing the ship's tackle overboard is a drastic measure, indicating the crew's attempt to lighten the ship in the face of a violent storm. The "tackle" refers to the equipment and gear necessary for the ship's operation, which would have been essential for navigation and control. This action underscores the severity of the storm and the crew's willingness to sacrifice essential tools for the hope of survival. Historically, this reflects the common practice in ancient maritime culture to jettison cargo and equipment to stabilize a ship in distress.

with their own hands
This phrase emphasizes the personal involvement and desperation of those on board. The use of "their own hands" highlights the manual effort and the collective responsibility of the crew and passengers in the face of impending disaster. It suggests a sense of unity and shared struggle, as everyone on the ship works together to combat the storm. This detail adds a human element to the narrative, illustrating the dire circumstances and the lengths to which people will go to preserve life.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Paul
- The Apostle Paul, a central figure in the New Testament, is on his way to Rome as a prisoner. His journey is marked by divine interventions and teachings.

2. The Ship's Crew
- The sailors and those responsible for navigating the ship, who are taking drastic measures to save the vessel during a severe storm.

3. The Storm
- A violent storm, often referred to as a "Northeaster," that threatens the ship and its passengers, symbolizing trials and tribulations.

4. The Ship
- The vessel carrying Paul and others to Rome, representing the journey of faith and the church's mission amidst adversity.

5. The Sea
- The Mediterranean Sea, a setting for many biblical accounts, symbolizing chaos and the unknown.

Teaching Points

Trust in God's Sovereignty
In times of crisis, we must trust in God's control over our circumstances, just as Paul did during the storm.

Letting Go of Earthly Attachments
The act of throwing the ship's tackle overboard symbolizes the need to let go of material possessions and trust in God's provision.

Community in Crisis
The crew's collective action highlights the importance of working together and supporting one another during difficult times.

Faith Amidst Fear
Like the sailors, we often face fear in life's storms, but faith calls us to act with courage and reliance on God.

Divine Purpose in Trials
God can use our trials to fulfill His purposes, as seen in Paul's journey to Rome, which ultimately leads to the spread of the Gospel.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the act of throwing the ship's tackle overboard reflect our need to let go of certain things in our lives to follow God's will?

2. In what ways can we see God's sovereignty at work in the midst of life's storms, as demonstrated in Acts 27:19?

3. How can the account of Jonah and the storm inform our understanding of divine intervention and human responsibility?

4. What lessons can we learn from the collective actions of the ship's crew about community and support during times of crisis?

5. How does Paul's journey to Rome, despite the storm, encourage us to trust in God's purpose for our lives, even when faced with adversity?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Jonah 1
The account of Jonah also involves a storm at sea, where the crew throws cargo overboard to lighten the ship, highlighting themes of divine intervention and human response to God's will.

Mark 4:35-41
Jesus calming the storm demonstrates His authority over nature and provides a parallel to trusting God amidst life's storms.

Philippians 3:7-8
Paul speaks of counting all things as loss for the sake of Christ, which can be related to the act of throwing valuable items overboard to save lives.