The ship that had weathered the storm in the open sea, where it had room, is dashed to pieces
when it sticks fast. Thus, if the heart fixes in the world in affection, and cleaving to it, it is lost.
Satan's temptations beat against it, and it is gone; but as long as it keeps above the world, though
tossed with cares and tumults, there is hope for it. They had the shore in view, yet suffered shipwreck
in the harbour; thus we are taught never to be secure. Though there is great difficulty in the way
of the promised salvation, it shall, without fail, be brought to pass. It will come to pass that whatever
the trials and dangers may be, in due time all believers will get safely to heaven. Lord Jesus, thou
hast assured us that none of thine shall perish. Thou wilt bring them all safe to the heavenly shore.
And what a pleasing landing will that be! Thou wilt present them to thy Father, and give thy Holy
Spirit full possession of them for ever.
Chapter 28
Chapter Outline
Paul kindly received at Melita. (1–10)
He arrives at Rome. (11–16)
His conference with the Jews. (17–22)
Paul preaches to the Jews, and abides at (23–31)
Rome a prisoner.Verses 1–10
God can make strangers to be friends; friends in distress. Those who are despised for homely
manners, are often more friendly than the more polished; and the conduct of heathens, or persons
called barbarians, condemns many in civilized nations, professing to be Christians. The people
thought that Paul was a murderer, and that the viper was sent by Divine justice, to be the avenger
of blood. They knew that there is a God who governs the world, so that things do not come to pass
by chance, no, not the smallest event, but all by Divine direction; and that evil pursues sinners; that
there are good works which God will reward, and wicked works which he will punish. Also, that
murder is a dreadful crime, one which shall not long go unpunished. But they thought all wicked
people were punished in this life. Though some are made examples in this world, to prove that
there is a God and a Providence, yet many are left unpunished, to prove that there is a judgment to
come. They also thought all who were remarkably afflicted in this life were wicked people. Divine
revelation sets this matter in a true light. Good men often are greatly afflicted in this life, for the
trial and increase of their faith and patience. Observe Paul's deliverance from the danger. And thus
in the strength of the grace of Christ, believers shake off the temptations of Satan, with holy
resolution. When we despise the censures and reproaches of men, and look upon them with holy
contempt, having the testimony of our consciences for us, then, like Paul, we shake off the viper
into the fire. It does us no harm, except we are kept by it from our duty. God hereby made Paul
remarkable among these people, and so made way for the receiving of the gospel. The Lord raises