Healing of Publius’ Father and the Islanders (Acts 28:7-10)

Scripture: Acts 28:7-10

Today’s Word

There was an estate nearby that belonged to Publius, the chief official of the island. He welcomed us to his home and showed us generous hospitality for three days. His father was sick in bed, suffering from fever and dysentery. Paul went in to see him and, after prayer, placed his hands on him and healed him. When this had happened, the rest of the sick on the island came and were cured. They honored us in many ways; and when we were ready to sail, they furnished us with the supplies we needed. (Acts 28:7-10, NIV)

Background

Key Terms Made Simple

• Publius: The chief official of Malta. An administrator appointed by the Roman government who governed the island.
• Fever: An illness with high temperature. In those days, it commonly referred to malaria or other infectious diseases.
• Dysentery: A disease accompanied by severe diarrhea. It was a common illness in an era with poor sanitary conditions.
• Placed his hands on: An act of praying while conveying healing power. This gesture frequently appears in the Bible when God’s power is transmitted through a person.

Key Expressions to Notice

1. “He welcomed us to his home and showed us generous hospitality for three days”
2. “Paul went in to see him and, after prayer, placed his hands on him and healed him”
3. “They honored us in many ways”

Main Points of the Text

1. Publius’ Hospitality: The island’s chief official, Publius, housed the shipwrecked Paul’s group in his home for three days and showed them generous hospitality. This was extraordinary kindness beyond simple courtesy.
2. God Demonstrating Healing Power: Paul prayed for and laid hands on Publius’ father, who was suffering from fever and dysentery, and healed him. This was not Paul’s own power but God’s power.
3. Expanding Healing Ministry: As news of one person’s healing spread, other sick people on the island came to Paul and were cured. God’s power was demonstrated throughout the entire island.
4. Grateful Islanders: The islanders treated Paul’s group well, and when they were leaving, they provided necessary supplies for the ship. This was an expression of gratitude for the grace they received.

Applying to My Life

1. The Power of Hospitality: Publius showed generous hospitality to shipwrecked foreigners. We too can welcome people in difficulty and strangers. Small acts of kindness can become channels through which God works. If there’s someone around you today who needs help, take the initiative to reach out.
2. Sharing with Gratitude for What We’ve Received: Paul, grateful for Publius’ kindness, healed his father. The grace and abilities we receive gain greater meaning when used to serve others. How can I use the talents, time, and resources God has given me to help others?
3. Trusting in God’s Power: Paul healed the sick not by his own power but by God’s power. We too must rely on God’s power rather than our own abilities in difficult situations. We can pray, expect, and wait for God to work. What are you worried about today? Try surrendering it to God in prayer and experience His power.

Think About It

1. Just as Publius welcomed shipwrecked foreigners, how do I treat strangers or people experiencing difficulties? What small acts of kindness can I do?
2. Paul healed the sick through prayer and God’s power. When I face difficult problems, do I first pray and seek God’s power, or do I try to solve them with my own abilities?
3. One person’s healing spread good influence throughout the entire island. How might my small acts of kindness or my life witnessing to God impact those around me?