“Near the shore where we landed was an estate belonging to Publius, the chief official of the island. He welcomed us and treated us kindly for three days. As it happened, Publius’s father was ill with fever and dysentery. Paul went in and prayed for him, and laying his hands on him, he healed him. Then all the other sick people on the island came and were healed. As a result we were showered with honors, and when the time came to sail, people supplied us with everything we would need for the trip.”
Acts of the Apostles 28:7-10 NLT Wow! Even in the midst of the worst of circumstances, God is at work using the situation to work for His kingdom. Publius, the chief of the island was gracious to the newcomers. Apparently, he, and the other inhabitants of the island, were hospitable and kindhearted. Their acts of kindness were rewarded by God. God used Paul as His ambassador to these people. When Paul learned of the sickness of Publius' father, he responded with compassion and laid his hands on him, in the name of Jesus, to heal him. The mighty power of Jesus was displayed and great joy resulted. This event had such impact that every sick person on the island came to Paul for prayer and healing. Each and every person was healed by the power of Jesus name! The Mighty God (Isaiah 9:6) was on display! I speculate that the whole religious belief system was changed on the island. Souls were, likely, added to the kingdom. God used the storm and shipwreck to bring glory to Himself and to save souls of men. This had to have changed the lives of the Ships crew, the Roman soldiers, and the prisoners, too. The natives of the island were so blessed by the power of Jesus, that they responded to the needs of the upcoming voyage. They allowed them to use another ship that was wintered in the harbor. Everything that the ship was in need of was supplied as well. God always makes a way. Trust Him! Trust Him! Trust Him!
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![]() Rev. Curtis Norris Archives
March 2020
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