Worship: Consequences

And the LORD said to Moses, "Go down and warn the people, lest they break through to gaze at the LORD, and many of them perish. Also let the priests who come near the LORD consecrate themselves, lest the LORD break out against them." But Moses said to the LORD, "The people cannot come up to Mount Sinai; for You warned us, saying, 'Set bounds around the mountain and consecrate it.' " Then the LORD said to him, "Away! Get down and then come up, you and Aaron with you. But do not let the priests and the people break through to come up to the LORD, lest He break out against them." So Moses went down to the people and spoke to them. Exodus 19:21-25

Many people believe that it doesn’t matter what one believes as long as one is sincere. Not according to the Bible.

Beyond that—contrary to what many who claim to believe in the God of the Bible may think—worshiping the true and living God of the Bible in a manner that is unbefitting has great consequences. Approaching Him on our own terms, in ways that we like but He does not, carries the consequence of death!

First of all, since all people are guilty of this infraction to one degree or another, all deserve to have God to “break out against us”! There is good news, however: the blood of Jesus atones for this sin as well!

That the blood of Jesus atones for sins regarding worship does not make those sins any less sinful. Nor does God’s forgiveness make it OK to continue in sin. Rather, having been forgiven, we ought to want to turn from sin all the more.

Turning from the sin of unbiblical worship means being committed to worshiping God reverently. Reverent is the antithesis of the modern craze of casual. Only those who do not understand what it means that God is HOLY, think it right to approach God casually.

Secondly, God is very deliberate about how He is to be worshipped. Proof of that is the fact that the largest portion of the Old Testament Law is about worship (tabernacle, priests, and sacrifices). So, because God is so particular about worship, even though we are not offering it through priests in a temple, we must stick to what God requires and reject any and everything that smacks of our innovations to make worship novel and entertaining to our tastes. Worship is about singing, praying, preaching the Word, and administering the sacraments. Those who want more, want what God does not want—with consequences for disobedience attached!

The drama of God's presence even when there is no drama

So Moses went down from the mountain to the people and sanctified the people, and they washed their clothes. And he said to the people, "Be ready for the third day; do not come near your wives." Then it came to pass on the third day, in the morning, that there were thunderings and lightnings, and a thick cloud on the mountain; and the sound of the trumpet was very loud, so that all the people who were in the camp trembled. And Moses brought the people out of the camp to meet with God, and they stood at the foot of the mountain. Now Mount Sinai was completely in smoke, because the LORD descended upon it in fire. Its smoke ascended like the smoke of a furnace, and the whole mountain quaked greatly. And when the blast of the trumpet sounded long and became louder and louder, Moses spoke, and God answered him by voice. Exodus 19:14-19

God instructed Moses and the people to prepare themselves to enter His presence. The presence of the Lord was dramatic, to say the least.

It is not likely that any of us has seen, heard, or felt the presence of the Lord the way they did. Our worship services have not been, nor is it likely that they ever will be punctuated by thunder, lightning, ominous clouds, or trumpet blasts from Heaven. But does that mean, when we gather to worship, that we are not in His presence? Consider the following:

• We cannot escape the presence of the Lord (Psalm 139:7-12). Whether God makes His presence known in dramatic ways or not, He is ever with us.

• According to 1 Kings 19:11-12, though God may reveal Himself in dramatic ways, more often than not, He speaks in a “still small voice.”

• “The Lord is near to all who call upon Him in truth” (Psalm 145:18).

• “We walk by faith not by sight” (2 Corinthians 5:7). We do not need to see as long as we believe.

It is God’s kindness not to show us more of His glory than He does, lest we be terrified of Him.

So let us prepare to meet with God as though He were about to reveal Himself dramatically, even if He is pleased rather to reveal Himself in more common ways. Let us believe we are in His dramatic presence even when there is no drama. And by faith let us be changed by being in His presence, even if there was no drama.

Preparing to enter the presence of God

…the LORD said to Moses, "Go to the people and consecrate them today and tomorrow, and let them wash their garments and be ready for the third day. For on the third day the LORD will come down on Mount Sinai in the sight of all the people. And you shall set limits for the people all around, saying, 'Take care not to go up into the mountain or touch the edge of it. Whoever touches the mountain shall be put to death. No hand shall touch him, but he shall be stoned or shot; whether beast or man, he shall not live.' When the trumpet sounds a long blast, they shall come up to the mountain." Exodus 19:10-13

I know that we are not Old Testament Israel. We have not been delivered from Egypt by the mighty hand of God. We are not camped at the foot of Mount Sinai, and we are not about to receive the Ten Commandments. BUT!

I believe that we can learn somethings from Exodus 19, at least in principle, about preparing to meet with, and hear from God when we gather for corporate worship.

About how we dress. It is not about a dress code. But it is about looking our best when we are coming into the presence of the Lord.

About reverence instead of being too casual. This goes way beyond what we wear. It is about our hearts. It is about remembering that even though we can come freely into the presence of the Lord God, it is the presence of the Lord God into which we come. This calls for heart preparation beginning the evening before. This calls for sober mindedness in examining ourselves and confessing our sins (knowing that He forgives) so that we can come to Him with clean hands and pure hearts. And a perfect time to do this is in the prayer meeting before the Sunday worship begins. This calls us to be there unless we absolutely can’t, and to be in our places when the worship service begins.

And praise God that we are not to prepare for worship under penalty of death if we do not. But let us realize that the penalty of death for not preparing at Sinai underscores how important this matter is to God.

All of this suggests a holy excitement, enthusiasm, and expectation that we will offer worship to, and hear from Almighty God Himself.

How do you and I need to be more prepared for corporate worship each Lord’s Day morning?

May the Holy Spirit Act in us!

I guess I have hinted that each of the last few posts were indeed the last post on the book of Acts. Then, each time I thought of one more. This time I’m pretty sure this will be the very last post about the book of Acts!

The book of Acts is actually called “The Acts of the Apostles.” For as long as I can remember I’ve heard it said that the more accurate title would be “The Acts of the Holy Spirit Through the Apostles.” After all, Jesus was quite clear when He said, “Apart from Me, you can do nothing” (John 15:5). So whatever good the Apostles did was the result of the Holy Spirit working through them. This is true not only for the Apostles, but for every believer in every generation—including us in our generation.

Though we are not Apostles, we can do nothing of lasting spiritual good except as we depend on, are empowered by, and follow the leading of the blessed Holy Spirit.

In Acts 1, the disciples had to wait for the coming of the Holy Spirit. In Acts 2 the Holy Spirit was given. But for us, there is no wait. He regenerates, indwells, empowers, and abides in every believer. Oh that we would follow the leading of the Holy Spirit every day in all things!

Let us be more conscious of our desperate need for Him. Let us seek His guidance, follow His lead, and live in His power—not to be Apostles, but simply to be the men and women of God He has called each of us to be:

• In our quest for personal holiness

• As more godly husbands and wives, parents and children, and better siblings.

• May we long to be the spiritual church members we are called to be.

• May we be the spirit-filled employers and employees, and students we are called to be.

In short, may we be the disciples of Christ our Lord saved us to be.

And this happens not as we try harder, but as we surrender ourselves more.

Paul: Between Acts 28 and his death by execution

Okay. In case anyone is interested in what happened to Paul after ACTS, there are a few slightly different opinions. Here is the brief scenario that seems most likely to me.

Paul was visited by many while under house arrest in Rome.  Needless to say, Paul spoke about Christ and the gospel every chance he got.  Besides blessing those to whom he spoke, he was chained to a guard at all times.  The guards rotated shifts, six hours each.  They couldn’t help but listen.  Some of them got saved (Philippians 1:2-24, & 4:22).

While under house arrest in Rome, Paul wrote Philippians, Ephesians, Colossians, and Philemon.

While under house arrest in Rome, he was accompanied by several of his friends and co-workers at various times.  Besides Luke, these included Timothy, John Mark, Aristarchus, Epaphras, Justus, and also Demas (who ended up turning away from the faith, 2 Timothy 4:10).

He also met Philemon’s runaway slave Onesimus and led him to faith in Christ (Philemon 1:10-21). The Philippian church sent Paul a gift delivered by Epaphroditus.

Luke did not include the details of Paul’s appeal to Caesar, but most agree that Paul was released as the charges against him were bogus.  During this period, he wrote letters to Timothy and Titus. He left Titus in Crete, and Timothy in Ephesus.

Paul was arrested again, probably in AD 67.  This second Roman imprisonment was not as “easy” as the previous.  He was likely in a regular prison and treated like a common criminal (2 Timothy 1:16, & 2:9). The saddest thing about this second imprisonment was his being forsaken by the believers in Rome (2 Timothy 4:16-17), including Demas (2 Timothy 4:10).

Paul knew that the end was coming (2 Timothy 4:6-8). Tradition tells us that he was beheaded in Rome in AD 67 or 68.

I have heard John MacArthur refer to Paul as the greatest Christian who ever lived.

Acts stops, but does not conclude.

Then 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. Acts 28:30-31

We come to the end of the Book of Acts. We’ve been at it for nearly three years. The first post in Acts was on May 26, 2020.

The last verses in Acts are the last details recorded by Paul’s dear friend and traveling companion, Luke. What is of particular interest is why Luke stopped where he did. There are several theories.

Realizing that Acts stops, but does not conclude, someone wrote “The Last Chapter of Acts.” The text tells of Paul’s travels to Spain and the British Isles. The authorship, date, and therefore authenticity of this alleged 29th chapter of Acts is unknown, and it is therefore not worth wasting the three minutes it takes to read it.

Some theorize the rest of Acts was somehow lost. Unlikely.

Some have theorized that Luke (who actually wrote Acts as Volume Two of the Gospel of Luke) died. Possible, but had Luke died leaving Acts unfinished, we might expect that Church history and tradition would say something about it. Yet they are silent.

That leaves me with the theory I think is best. What the Holy Spirit wanted recorded and included in scripture was recorded and included in scripture. Nothing more and nothing less.

God does not tell us all we might like to know (about a lot of things!). But we must rest in the Lord, trusting that He has told us all He wants us to know—for now. And if He wants us to know more when we get to Heaven, He’ll tell us. But if He doesn’t, it won’t matter!

Interruptions! ARGH!

Then 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. Acts 28:30-31

We come to the end of the Book of Acts. We’ve been at it for more than two years.

The last verses in Acts are the last details recorded by Paul’s dear friend and traveling companion, Luke. What is of particular interest is why Luke stopped where he did. More about that in the next post.

For now, Paul was under house arrest in Rome for two more years! Since his initial arrest in Israel, this ordeal interrupted Paul’s life for probably five years. We do not know exactly how much time transpired from his arrest (Acts 23:10) until he was locked up for two years by Felix (Acts 24:27). So Paul was in custody for more than two years in Israel.

We do not know how much time lapsed while being tried by Festus until he was “shipped” to Rome (Acts 27:1). Nor do we know for certain exactly how much time the voyage (including time in Malta) to Italy took. Nor do we know how long it took to travel on land to Rome. But now we know that Paul was held another two years under house arrest in Rome (v.30). It sounds like this entire nightmare consumed more than five years—and at this point in Acts, it is still not resolved!

The point I would like you to join me in considering is how we respond to life’s interruptions. If you are like me, every red light seems to be an impediment to my plans. Argh! And exactly how long is the wait at the longest red light? Well, it is certainly less than five-plus years!

I observe that Paul’s legal problems may have pushed the pause button on Paul’s plans—but it did not push any pause buttons on his devotion to Christ, or on his ministry. In the midst of all these interruptions, Paul loved and served the Lord wherever he was, and whenever he was there!

Lord, may I learn to love and serve You and Your people wherever and whenever. May I see interruptions (especially those beyond my control) as providential opportunities to speak to people about Christ.

Hearing, but unable to hear

So when they did not agree among themselves, they departed after Paul had said one word: "The Holy Spirit spoke rightly through Isaiah the prophet to our fathers, , 'Go to this people and say: "Hearing you will hear, and shall not understand; and seeing you will see, and not perceive; for the hearts of this people have grown dull. Their ears are hard of hearing, and their eyes they have closed, lest they should see with their eyes and hear with their ears, lest they should understand with their hearts and turn, so that I should heal them." ' "Therefore let it be known to you that the salvation of God has been sent to the Gentiles, and they will hear it!" And when he had said these words, the Jews departed and had a great dispute among themselves.
Acts 28:25-29

Paul makes a closing argument by quoting from Isaiah 6. Speaking specifically to and about the Jews, nothing had changed since Isaiah’s day. God’s messengers spoke (Isaiah and here, Paul) and even though the people heard with their ears, they could not understand what was being said. Again, only the Holy Spirit can grant understanding of spiritual truth. A human proclaims it, but the Spirit must give the sense or it will be lost on the hearers. This was true of Israel. They rejected the prophets who foretold the coming of the Messiah and they rejected Jesus, the Messiah, when He came.

But lest we think this is only true of the Jewish people, it is true of all people. No matter how well the gospel is presented and explained (we must be as clear and convincing as we can be!) only the Holy Spirit can regenerate the spiritually dead. Though Paul said “the Gentiles will hear,” he did not mean that all the Gentiles will hear. Obviously all Gentiles do not hear. He meant that the knowledge of God that was previously confined mostly to Israel was now going to spread throughout the previously, spiritually, deaf Gentile world.

So let us be humbly grateful to Him if we have understood the gospel and received Christ. All glory is His! Also, let us pray for our unbelieving family and friends, that the Lord will mercifully open their ears so that they may “hear” what the Spirit has to say—even as He did with us.

In the end, the Jews who disputed with each other were united in their rejection of Paul and of the gospel.

Some believe. Some don't.

Then they said to him, "We neither received letters from Judea concerning you, nor have any of the brethren who came reported or spoken any evil of you. But we desire to hear from you what you think; for concerning this sect, we know that it is spoken against everywhere." So when they had appointed him a day, many came to him at his lodging, to whom he explained and solemnly testified of the kingdom of God, persuading them concerning Jesus from both the Law of Moses and the Prophets, from morning till evening. And some were persuaded by the things which were spoken, and some disbelieved. Acts 28:21-24

Though news travels fast in our day, maybe not so much in theirs! The Jewish leaders in Rome knew about the “Christian” issue, but not about Paul’s legal affairs. They were willing to hear his side of the matter.

“Many” came to the place where Paul was staying while under house arrest. There, Paul preached Christ and the gospel. Following Jesus’ example in Luke 24:27, he began sharing the gospel with “the Law of Moses and the Prophets.” By doing this, he made it clear that Christianity was nothing new. This was especially important, considering Paul’s audience was steeped in the Old Testament scriptures.

The result was that some believed and some did not. This is the usual case. We should be grateful when people believe, but not surprised when some do not believe. Though we should be as clear and as convincing as we can be, we must bear in mind that only the Holy Spirit can change people’s hearts, converting non-believers into believers.

So let us share Christ and the gospel with all who will listen, having full assurance that God will save those for whom Christ died!

Loving those who do not love Christ

And it came to pass after three days that Paul called the leaders of the Jews together. So when they had come together, he said to them: "Men and brethren, though I have done nothing against our people or the customs of our fathers, yet I was delivered as a prisoner from Jerusalem into the hands of the Romans, who, when they had examined me, wanted to let me go, because there was no cause for putting me to death. But when the Jews spoke against it, I was compelled to appeal to Caesar, not that I had anything of which to accuse my nation. For this reason therefore I have called for you, to see you and speak with you, because for the hope of Israel I am bound with this chain." Acts 28:17-20

Shortly after arriving in Rome (three days) Paul contacted the Jewish leaders in there. Paul was likely well known to Jewish leaders in the capital city—if not as a prestigious Pharisee, then as a defector to Christianity. He couldn’t go to them, so apparently they came to him. Paul addressed these men as “Men and brethren.”

Interestingly and graciously, Paul did not mention the names of any of the Jewish leaders in Jerusalem of Caesarea who mistreated him rashly. Though it might have felt good to blast those men, it was unnecessary, so Paul refrained. He simply stated that he was innocent of the crimes of which he was accused and that he appealed his case to Caesar. He didn’t even mention his prized Roman citizenship!

He appealed to the Jewish leaders in Rome to be his allies in the matter—though they were not allies in the Gospel. Paul loved the Jewish people. He did not want them to be placed in a bad light with the Roman authorities because of these legal matters.

May we too, love the non-believing people all around us, not wanting them to expericnce harm, while wanting them to know Christ.

From Malta to Rome

After three months we sailed in an Alexandrian ship whose figurehead was the Twin Brothers, which had wintered at the island. And landing at Syracuse, we stayed three days. From there we circled round and reached Rhegium. And after one day the south wind blew; and the next day we came to Puteoli, where we found brethren, and were invited to stay with them seven days. And so we went toward Rome. And from there, when the brethren heard about us, they came to meet us as far as Appii Forum and Three Inns. When Paul saw them, he thanked God and took courage. Now when we came to Rome, the centurion delivered the prisoners to the captain of the guard; but Paul was permitted to dwell by himself with the soldier who guarded him. Acts 28:11-16

Paul and the others were on the island of Malta for three months (probably November through January). It was about sixty-miles from Malta to Syracuse in Sicily, which could be traversed in a day. They boarded an Alexandrian ship and were off to Syracuse where they stayed three days; probably delayed due to adverse weather conditions once again. When they were able, they made the next short voyage to Puteoli. There were Christians in Puteoli who somehow heard that Paul was there, so they went to greet and receive Paul and his traveling companions for seven days.

A passing reminder that Christians are called to hospitality—even to the extent of housing those in need of a place to stay—even with little or no notice. It is rather sad that in our day, when our houses are nearly all larger than the common family dwelling in that day, we may be so private (stingy?) with our homes that this kind of hospitality is rare. Granted, we live in a different culture and in a different time, but let us be encouraged to give this matter of hospitality a little prayerful consideration. (Am I the only one who needs this reminder?)

Paul then departed toward to Rome, enjoying Christian fellowship and hospitality along the way—for which he gave thanks.

Once in Rome, Paul was handed over to other guards, reminding us that he was still imprisoned!

The good news is that Paul was allowed to be under house arrest, rather than in a dungeon! Why this special privilege? Though we cannot say for sure, some speculate that the charges against Paul, written by Festus and handed over by Julius, included the following facts: (1) Paul was innocent of any wrong-doing, (2) as a Roman citizen he had appealed to Caesar, (3) the reason for his imprisonment was not for breaking any Roman laws (it was a religious dispute with the Jews), and (4) Paul was exemplary during the voyage from Caesarea to Rome, to the extent that he helped save the people on board.

When the Lord opens doors

In that region there was an estate of the leading citizen of the island, whose name was Publius, who received us and entertained us courteously for three days. And it happened that the father of Publius lay sick of a fever and dysentery. Paul went in to him and prayed, and he laid his hands on him and healed him. So when this was done, the rest of those on the island who had diseases also came and were healed. They also honored us in many ways; and when we departed, they provided such things as were necessary.
Acts 28:7-10

We are not told why the leading person of Malta extended hospitality to these visitors to his island. I won’t speculate regarding that. Neither are we told precisely who Luke was referring to with the word “us” (v.7). It is highly unlikely that the Publius opened his doors to the entire 276 people who were aboard the wrecked sailing vessel. Had that been the case, how large was Publius’ house?! Therefore I can only assume the word “us” refers to Paul and Luke and any others in their immediate circle, though the text does not say. What is important, however, is that the Lord providentially saw that at least Paul and his companions were cared for quite nicely.

The more important point is that the Lord placed Paul in a situation in which the Lord could use Paul to heal Publius’ father from a serious (and likely lethal) bout with illness (v.8). Let us remember that in addition to healings revealing God’s kindness, more importantly, miracles were a means of validating the gospel message that the Apostle was most certainly preaching.

The Lord also used this single healing to bring others needing healing (v.9)—resulting not only in more healings but in more hearings of the gospel message. How many times has God providentially dropped us in situations in which we could share the gospel? How many times are we mindful to seize those opportunities? Conversely, how many times have we remained oblivious to open doors? Granted, we may never find ourselves in situations as dramatic as Paul’s shipwreck, but may we pray to be aware of open doors.

On a practical note, as a result of all of this, the people of Malta were all the more hospitable in caring for their unplanned visitors (v.10).

Hospitality and a snake bite...

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!

Whatever threatens, God's ultimate will prevails

So when they had eaten enough, they lightened the ship and threw out the wheat into the sea. When it was day, they did not recognize the land; but they observed a bay with a beach, onto which they planned to run the ship if possible. And they let go the anchors and left them in the sea, meanwhile loosing the rudder ropes; and they hoisted the mainsail to the wind and made for shore. But striking a place where two seas met, they ran the ship aground; and the prow stuck fast and remained immovable, but the stern was being broken up by the violence of the waves. And the soldiers' plan was to kill the prisoners, lest any of them should swim away and escape. Acts 27:38-42

The light of day revealed a sandy beach which was much to be preferred over the otherwise rocky shoreline. The plan was to beach the ship on the sand. Though it was a great plan, the waves dictated another outcome. The ship hit and stuck fast on a reef. Now nearer the shore, though the storm seemed to have subsided, the crashing of the surf was breaking the ship to pieces.

The soldiers were afraid that the prisoners would escape. If that happened, the soldiers would be held liable, so they planned to execute the prisoners. What a revelation of how ‘valuable’ human life was in that day and culture!

But the centurion, wanting to save Paul, kept them from their purpose, and commanded that those who could swim should jump overboard first and get to land, and the rest, some on boards and some on parts of the ship. And so it was that they all escaped safely to land. Acts 27:43-44

The plan to execute the prisoners was countermanded by the centurion (the officer in charge). This man seems to have taken a liking to Paul, so for Paul’s sake the lives of the prisoners were spared. The secondary cause of this action was the centurion, but the primary cause was God, who providentially intended to get Paul to Rome. Once again we see events being directed by God for the sake of His man, Paul. Whether we are threatened by weather or people or anything else, God will see that His plans come to pass.

There are many plans in a man's heart, Nevertheless the LORD's counsel--that will stand.
Proverbs 19:21

Giving thanks

So they took a sounding and found twenty fathoms. A little farther on they took a sounding again and found fifteen fathoms. And fearing that we might run on the rocks, they let down four anchors from the stern and prayed for day to come. And as the sailors were seeking to escape from the ship, and had lowered the ship's boat into the sea under pretense of laying out anchors from the bow, Paul said to the centurion and the soldiers, "Unless these men stay in the ship, you cannot be saved." Then the soldiers cut away the ropes of the ship's boat and let it go. Acts 27:28-32

Having been at sea for two weeks (v.27), the ship was nearing land (v.28). The first depth measurement was 120 feet. The second was 90 feet. Fearing they might run the ship aground, the sailors let down four anchors (probably all there were)to avoid crashing into the rocks (v.29). All aboard prayed for day to come!

Since the weather and high seas were not letting up, and since they were likely within a quarter mile from the shore, some, most, or all the sailors, were planning to jump overboard and swim for it. But Paul spoke up again, this time assuring those wanting to flee that their only hope of survival was to remain on board the ship (v.31). Likely because Paul’s counsel had proven to be correct twice before, those in charge opted to heed Paul’s words.

As day was about to dawn, Paul urged them all to take some food, saying, "Today is the fourteenth day that you have continued in suspense and without food, having taken nothing. Therefore I urge you to take some food. For it will give you strength, for not a hair is to perish from the head of any of you." And when he had said these things, he took bread, and giving thanks to God in the presence of all he broke it and began to eat. Then they all were encouraged and ate some food themselves. (We were in all 276 persons in the ship.) Acts 27:33-37

In case you hadn’t wondered about the size of this ship, it was big enough for 276 people, plus cargo. In the morning, when apparently the weather has calmed a bit, Paul presided over a meal—that began with prayer and thanksgiving. Though the message of the gospel begins with doom, it ends with the declaration that survival is only in faith in Christ alone. And though we must declare the “bad news,” the “good news” is so sweet. May we be gracious in declaring it!

Collateral blessings, and trials

…and he said, 'Do not be afraid, Paul; you must stand before Caesar. And behold, God has granted you all those who sail with you.' So take heart, men, for I have faith in God that it will be exactly as I have been told. But we must run aground on some island." When the fourteenth night had come, as we were being driven across the Adriatic Sea, about midnight the sailors suspected that they were nearing land. Acts 27:24-27

Paul’s confidence that God would get the ship and its passengers to Rome was grounded in the fact that God had told Paul that he would testify in Rome. Two observations:

First, God frequently blesses people (including those who are not His people), as a collateral blessing, because His people are present. God told Paul he would testify in Rome, so Paul knew that He would eventually arrive in Rome—and those who were headed to Rome with him would likewise arrive there. As God blessed Potipher’s house and the prison warden in Egypt because of Joseph, Paul was sure that those who were traveling with him would receive God’s blessing with him. This causes me to consider my life. Am I living a manner to enjoy God’s blessings? If so, others around me will likely benefit. If not—maybe I need to consider how I am living.

Second, even though God was going to get Paul to Rome, there was no promise that it would all be smooth sailing to get there. Sometimes God’s promises are easily received. Sometimes not so much. Consider Joseph again. God sent him to Egypt so that he would be in a position to save his family from dying in a famine (Genesis 50:20). The route to that position included being sold as a slave, being falsely accused of committing a rape, and languishing for some years in an Egyptian dungeon. We can be assured that God will keep His promises, but us not forget Paul’s words in Acts 14:22, “…through many tribulations we must enter the kingdom of God.” Therefore when trusting God, we cannot assume life will be easy, nor ought we to be surprised and lose heart when life is difficult.

"I told you so!"

Acts 27:20 Now when neither sun nor stars appeared for many days, and no small tempest beat on us, all hope that we would be saved was finally given up.

Paul’s journey to Rome aboard a freight and prison transport ship was getting hairy! God had revealed to Paul what was ahead. Paul warned those in charge, but they did not heed the warning. But as previously mentioned, that was no big surprise. After all, who was Paul to be giving sailing instructions?

(v.21) But after long abstinence from food, then Paul stood in the midst of them and said, "Men, you should have listened to me, and not have sailed from Crete and incurred this disaster and loss.

Though Paul’s words were certainly true, saying, “I told you so!” is seldom the best approach. Usually when we have warned people who have not heeded our advice—especially if things went badly—we don’t need to remind them. They know. What is a more diplomatic and fruitful approach?

(v.22- 25) And now I urge you to take heart, for there will be no loss of life among you, but only of the ship. 23 For there stood by me this night an angel of the God to whom I belong and whom I serve, 24 saying, 'Do not be afraid, Paul; you must be brought before Caesar; and indeed God has granted you all those who sail with you.' 25 Therefore take heart, men, for I believe God that it will be just as it was told me.

Encouraging words about what to do next graciously communicates true caring—which is what Paul did. This is still no guarantee that people will follow our counsel, but it may be more likely once they realize that they didn't follow wise counsel, kind words will show them that we still care.

A footnote: Am I contradicting scripture by what I have written about Paul’s “I told you so!” (v.21)? Certainly not. Remember that the Bible accurately records what was said and done, but that does not mean that everything that was said and done was done well or even correctly. When speaking about doctrine, the Apostle was always right. But that doesn’t mean everything he said or did was always best. The characters in the Bible (including Paul) were fallible people. The Bible does not shrink away from or try to whitewash that fact. We can learn from their mistakes. And this is why we do not base doctrine solely on narratives.

Listening to the experts can be risky!

Paul was headed to Rome to make his appeal to Caesar. The Lord revealed to Paul that the ship on which he was sailing was headed into bad weather. Paul in turn warned the centurion in charge of the prisoners on board.

"Men, I perceive that this voyage will end with disaster and much loss, not only of the cargo and ship, but also our lives." Acts 27:10

Understandably, the centurion listened to the expert sailors instead of Paul.

Nevertheless the centurion was more persuaded by the helmsman and the owner of the ship than by the things spoken by Paul. Acts 27:11

They made their way, hoping to stay in a safe harbor to avoid the rough seas of winter.

And because the harbor was not suitable to winter in, the majority advised to set sail from there also, if by any means they could reach Phoenix, a harbor of Crete opening toward the southwest and northwest, and winter there. Acts 27:12

They ran into rough weather anyway.

When the south wind blew softly, supposing that they had obtained their desire, putting out to sea, they sailed close by Crete. But not long after, a tempestuous head wind arose, called Euroclydon. So when the ship was caught, and could not head into the wind, we let her drive. And running under the shelter of an island called Clauda, we secured the skiff with difficulty. When they had taken it on board, they used cables to undergird the ship; and fearing lest they should run aground on the Syrtis Sands, they struck sail and so were driven. And because we were exceedingly tempest-tossed, the next day they lightened the ship. On the third day we threw the ship's tackle overboard with our own hands. Now when neither sun nor stars appeared for many days, and no small tempest beat on us, all hope that we would be saved was finally given up. Acts 27:13-20

The experts may know more than the uninformed, but God knows better than all.

Sailing toward danger

And when we had sailed over the sea which is off Cilicia and Pamphylia, we came to Myra, a city of Lycia. There the centurion found an Alexandrian ship sailing to Italy, and he put us on board. When we had sailed slowly many days, and arrived with difficulty off Cnidus, the wind not permitting us to proceed, we sailed under the shelter of Crete off Salmone. Passing it with difficulty, we came to a place called Fair Havens, near the city of Lasea. Now when much time had been spent, and sailing was now dangerous because the Fast was already over, Paul advised them, saying, "Men, I perceive that this voyage will end with disaster and much loss, not only of the cargo and ship, but also our lives."
Acts 27:5-10

Paul’s journey to Rome for his legal appeal to Caesar continued. The journey included changing ships, since there were no “non-stop” sailings to Rome. Because of weather challenges, the sailing continued close to the shore—just in case!

One of the stops was in a place called Fair Havens, which may have been so-named because it offered shelter from the open waters. We do not know how long they were there, but Luke calls it “much time.” The ship and passengers remained there a long time. (Think of it as an extended lay-over, is an airport.)

They were there long enough—probably waiting for better weather—that the weather got worse. Somehow the Lord informed Paul (a lawyer and a tent-maker, but not a sailor) that proceeding would be dangerous not only for the ship and it’s cargo, but for the persons on board. Paul advised those in charge.

But as the following verses reveal, the sailors naturally discounted this counsel regarding sailing from a non-sailor as “dismissible.” So they proceeded.

Nevertheless the centurion was more persuaded by the helmsman and the owner of the ship than by the things spoken by Paul. And because the harbor was not suitable to winter in, the majority advised to set sail from there also, if by any means they could reach Phoenix, a harbor of Crete opening toward the southwest and northwest, and winter there.
Acts 27:11-12

Rather than fault these professional seamen for not listening to Paul, which was quite to be expected, let us nevertheless take note of the fact that the Lord gave warning.

Next time: A storm at sea…

Praise God for both the bitter and the sweet!

And when it was decided that we should sail to Italy, they delivered Paul and some other prisoners to one named Julius, a centurion of the Augustan Regiment. So, entering a ship of Adramyttium, we put to sea, meaning to sail along the coasts of Asia. Aristarchus, a Macedonian of Thessalonica, was with us. And the next day we landed at Sidon. And Julius treated Paul kindly and gave him liberty to go to his friends and receive care. When we had put to sea from there, we sailed under the shelter of Cyprus, because the winds were contrary. And when we had sailed over the sea which is off Cilicia and Pamphylia, we came to Myra, a city of Lycia. Acts 27:1-5

Paul’s trial before Agrippa, being concluded, Paul was sent to Rome for his appeal before Caesar. He was being transported to Rome along with other prisoners, under the supervision of a Roman Centurion named Julius. The plan was to sail along the coast rather than across the Mediterranean Sea, probably because of weather.

Luke noted that Julius treated Paul kindly, granting him the freedom to visit with people he knew in that port city. We are not told why Julius treated Paul so favorably, so I will not speculate. Instead, I will say what is always true even when unstated: it was according to the providence of God.

When treated kindly, especially by people who might normally not treat us so kindly, let us thank the Lord for His kind mercies. I am convicted to say that I am quick to recognize, and often complain, when mistreated, but forgetful to thank the Lord for His providence when I am treated kindly. Anybody else? And as a footnote, when served well (by cashiers or waiters, etc.), may we be intentional to thank those who serve us for their kindness! Who knows that if more servers were recognized for their kindness, they might be kind more often?

In contrast to that kind providence, Luke also noted that the weather was “contrary.” This reminds me that we cannot expect easy going in this life. Sometimes people are kind. Praise the Lord. But sometimes the weather is contrary. Praise the Lord anyway! If God is sovereign over all, He is sovereign over the bitter as well as the sweet!

Next time: The journey continues…