Now when they had escaped, they then found out that the island was called Malta. And the natives showed us unusual kindness; for they kindled a fire and made us all welcome, because of the rain that was falling and because of the cold. But when Paul had gathered a bundle of sticks and laid them on the fire, a viper came out because of the heat, and fastened on his hand. So when the natives saw the creature hanging from his hand, they said to one another, "No doubt this man is a murderer, whom, though he has escaped the sea, yet justice does not allow to live." But he shook off the creature into the fire and suffered no harm. However, they were expecting that he would swell up or suddenly fall down dead. But after they had looked for a long time and saw no harm come to him, they changed their minds and said that he was a god. Acts 28:1-6
The human cargo aboard the doomed ship made it safely to shore on the island of Malta. Yes, it was the same island of Malta in the Mediterranean Sea to this day. The inhabitants were most hospitable. Some historians say that Malta was not on the regular trade routes of that day, so it wasn’t a frequent stop for ships. One had to he headed there to end up there. Maybe having visitors, even from a shipwreck, was exciting for the locals.
The anecdote about the snake bite is interesting. Note first that Luke included it, so it must have spiritual significance.
Second, it reveal that “bad things” can happen to those who are about the Lord’s business. Who even knows how many Christian missionaries have died on the field as a result of accidents and health issues?
Third, It reminds us of how superstitious people can be. Because of a snake bite the people assumed Paul was a murderer! Then when Paul did not die, they assumed he was a god. How pathetic the superstitions and insanity people can believe when they do not know the Lord! This may have been true even for some of us. If the Lord has delivered you from such silliness, be grateful. If any of us still hold on to superstitious beliefs and/or practices, may the Lord set us free!