The final chapter of the Book of Acts presents a powerful narrative of providence, perseverance, and the unhindered proclamation of the Gospel. It chronicles the Apostle Paul’s miraculous survival, his ministry on Malta, and his final testimony in Rome. This chapter demonstrates God’s faithfulness in fulfilling promises, even through chains and shipwrecks, offering crucial insight into the early church’s expansion into the Roman Empire.
Shipwrecked on Malta: Divine Providence in Disaster
Acts 28 opens with all 276 passengers safely reaching Malta’s shore. The islanders show “no little kindness,” building a fire to warm the survivors from the cold rain. This hospitality sets the stage for demonstrating divine power through Paul’s ministry.
The Viper’s Bite and God’s Protection
As Paul gathers wood, a venomous viper fastens onto his hand. The islanders immediately conclude he must be a murderer facing divine justice, expecting him to swell up and die. When Paul shakes the snake into the fire without harm, their opinion reverses completely—they declare him a god. This event fulfills Jesus’ promise in Mark 16:18 and demonstrates Paul’s divine protection for his Roman mission.
The Healing Ministry in Publius’s House
Paul is brought to Publius, the island’s chief official, who entertains them for three days. When Publius’s father falls critically ill with fever and dysentery, Paul prays, lays hands on him, and heals him. This miracle triggers a chain reaction where all the island’s sick come to Paul and are cured. These healings validate Paul’s message and authority, leading the Maltese people to honor him and supply all necessary provisions for his continued journey.
The Final Voyage to Rome: Fulfilling the Promise
After three months on Malta, Paul’s party sails on an Alexandrian ship named “The Twin Gods.” The narrative traces their route through Syracuse in Sicily, then Rhegium on the Italian mainland, finally reaching Puteoli where they find an existing Christian community. The believers invite them to stay for seven days, showing the Gospel had already reached Italy before Paul’s arrival.
The Encouraging Welcome of the Roman Believers
News of Paul’s arrival reaches Rome quickly. Believers journey to meet him at the Forum of Appius and Three Taverns along the Appian Way. When Paul sees them, he “thanked God and took courage.” This emotional moment after years of longing to visit Rome (Romans 1:10-13) provides strength as he prepares to face Roman justice, demonstrating Christian unity and support.
Paul’s Unhindered Ministry in Rome
The chapter’s final section details Paul’s unique living situation and strategic ministry in Rome. He lives under military custody (custodia militaris) chained to a soldier, yet exercises remarkable ministerial freedom.
Addressing the Jewish Leaders in Rome
True to his pattern, Paul first seeks local Jewish leadership. He explains he has done nothing against Jewish people or customs, yet was arrested in Jerusalem and delivered to Romans. He clarifies that Roman authorities found no capital crime, but opposition from Judean leaders forced his appeal to Caesar. He emphasizes his purpose is not accusation but conversation about “the hope of Israel.”
A Divided Response and Prophetic Declaration
The Roman Jewish leaders report receiving no negative letters about Paul from Judea. They express curiosity about “this sect” spoken against everywhere. A day is set where Paul expounds from Moses and the prophets concerning God’s Kingdom and Jesus. The result mirrors earlier patterns: some believe while others reject his message. Paul quotes Isaiah 6:9-10 about spiritual blindness and declares “the salvation of God has been sent to the Gentiles, and they will hear it.” This statement marks the theological conclusion to Acts, affirming the Gospel’s turn to the Gentile world.
The Unstoppable Gospel: Preaching the Kingdom Unhindered
The Book of Acts concludes powerfully: “Paul dwelt two whole years in his own rented house, and received all who came to him, preaching the kingdom of God and teaching the things which concern the Lord Jesus Christ with all confidence, no one forbidding him.” This final verse represents the thematic climax—though Paul remains a prisoner, God’s Word proves unchainable (2 Timothy 2:9). For two years, he welcomes all visitors, Jews and Gentiles alike, teaching about God’s Kingdom and Jesus Christ. The Gospel that began in Jerusalem now reaches the empire’s capital, advancing “with all confidence, no one forbidding him.” The Greek text’s final word—akolytos (“unhindered”)—perfectly captures Acts’ ultimate message: the Gospel of Jesus Christ remains an unstoppable, dynamically active force throughout the world.