Acts 28 10

Acts 28:10 kjv

Who also honoured us with many honours; and when we departed, they laded us with such things as were necessary.

Acts 28:10 nkjv

They also honored us in many ways; and when we departed, they provided such things as were necessary.

Acts 28:10 niv

They honored us in many ways; and when we were ready to sail, they furnished us with the supplies we needed.

Acts 28:10 esv

They also honored us greatly, and when we were about to sail, they put on board whatever we needed.

Acts 28:10 nlt

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 28 verses

Acts 28 10 Meaning

Acts 28:10 describes the grateful actions of the people of Malta towards Paul and his companions after Paul's healing ministry on the island. The verse indicates two main expressions of their gratitude: first, they "honored" them in many ways, signifying deep respect, high esteem, and likely a variety of gifts or privileges. Second, as Paul and his company prepared to continue their journey, the Maltese ensured they were well-equipped by providing "all the necessities" for their onward travel, demonstrating practical care and generosity. This verse underscores the reciprocity of kindness and the way God orchestrates provision through human agents, even in unexpected circumstances.

Acts 28 10 Context

Acts 28:10 occurs during Paul's forced journey to Rome, where he is to appeal his case to Caesar. After a harrowing shipwreck on the island of Malta (Acts 27:39-44, 28:1), Paul, Luke, and the other survivors were met with unexpected kindness from the native inhabitants (Acts 28:2). Despite Paul being bitten by a viper, he suffered no ill effects, confirming his divine protection (Acts 28:3-6). Following this, Paul miraculously healed Publius's father of fever and dysentery, and subsequently healed many other sick people on the island (Acts 28:7-9). This verse directly follows these miraculous acts, showing the deep appreciation and response of the Maltese people. Their "honoring" and "provision of necessities" were a direct consequence of experiencing God's power through Paul, fulfilling God's ongoing provision for His servant's journey and mission even in unlikely places. The passage highlights themes of divine care, Gentile hospitality, and the profound impact of the Gospel, demonstrating God's providence in unforeseen circumstances.

Acts 28 10 Word analysis

• They: Refers to the people of Malta, the islanders (βάρβαροι – barbaroi, referring to those who did not speak Greek or Latin, though in Acts 28:2 it specifies they showed kindness, removing the negative connotation common in other contexts). These were Gentiles.
• also: Connects this verse to the preceding events (healings) as a direct result or additional benefit. It implies their kindness extended beyond initial compassion.
• honored (ἐτίμησαν - etimēsan, from τιμάω - timaō): Implies bestowing value, showing esteem, and often giving gifts or payments. In this context, it speaks of deep respect and practical recognition for Paul and his companions' work. It wasn't just abstract honor but conveyed with material blessings. It may refer to monetary gifts, goods, or other expressions of high regard.
• us: Referring to Paul and his traveling companions, specifically Luke, and likely other Christian brethren, as well as the centurion Julius and the soldiers who had become sympathetic.
• in many ways (πολλαῖς τιμαῖς - pollai timais): Literally "with many honors." This signifies a multifaceted and abundant expression of esteem and gratitude, not limited to one specific gesture. It suggests their gifts and acts of kindness were numerous and diverse.
• and when we were about to depart (καὶ ἀναγομένοις ἡμῖν - kai anagomenois hēmin): Denotes the transition period as Paul and his company prepared to set sail for Syracuse, indicating the conclusion of their three-month stay on the island.
• they provided us with: This phrase implies a conscious, active, and helpful effort. The Greek term for 'provided' (ἐπέθεντο - epethento, lit. 'they put upon/laid upon us') suggests a burden, but here it is a benevolent one – burdens of good things for their journey. It implies deliberate assistance for their future travel.
• all the necessities (τὰ πρὸς τὴν χρείαν - ta pros tēn chreian): Literally, "the things toward the need." This would include provisions crucial for a sea voyage: food, water, perhaps fresh clothing, money, or other supplies to sustain them on their continued journey to Rome. It suggests they equipped them thoroughly and generously.

Words-group analysis

• They also honored us in many ways: This highlights the Maltese people's profound gratitude for Paul's ministry. It moves beyond simple hospitality to a deep level of respect and appreciation, likely encompassing both social recognition and material gifts. This level of honor for a shipwrecked prisoner and his companions is remarkable, stemming directly from the divine power demonstrated through Paul.
• and when we were about to depart, they provided us with all the necessities: This phrase signifies thoughtful and practical care. Knowing Paul's destination (Rome) and his continued mission, the Maltese equipped them for the challenges of sea travel, ensuring their immediate needs for the journey were met. It reveals foresight and a tangible commitment to supporting God's servants.

Acts 28 10 Bonus section

The kindness shown by the Maltese serves as an early example of how the Spirit's work can elicit a compassionate and supportive response from unbelievers. Luke, as a gentile believer and Paul's companion, carefully records this gentile hospitality, contrasting it subtly with the sometimes-hostile receptions Paul received from certain Jewish groups elsewhere in Acts. The "honors" (τιμαῖς - timais) bestowed upon them may also have been financial support, making it an early demonstration of a local community providing resources for traveling ministers, a principle that would later be established for churches to support those who teach the word (1 Tim 5:17-18). The meticulous detail of their needs being met ("all the necessities") highlights Luke's careful recording and emphasis on God's attention to practical welfare and logistical support for His ministry.

Acts 28 10 Commentary

Acts 28:10 encapsulates a beautiful testimony to God's providence and the profound impact of a life lived for Him. Following the dramatic shipwreck and Paul's miraculous healings, the people of Malta responded with genuine and practical gratitude. Their "honors" reflect not just polite hospitality, but a deep reverence for the divine power manifested through Paul. This wasn't just emotional gratitude; it translated into tangible "necessities" for the continuing journey. This provision illustrates several truths:

1. God's Provision: Even amidst adverse circumstances like a shipwreck, God ensured His servants were not left wanting. He uses human agents, even Gentiles considered 'barbarians,' to meet the needs of His people (Phil 4:19).
2. Fruit of Ministry: Paul's self-sacrificial ministry, empowered by the Holy Spirit, bore fruit in kindness and provision. When God's power is displayed, it often evokes a positive response, leading to unexpected blessings (Matt 10:41).
3. Biblical Hospitality: The verse showcases exemplary hospitality, not just of welcome, but of comprehensive care. It moves from initial kindness (Acts 28:2) to active honoring and future provision, demonstrating a spirit of Christian generosity that predates widespread conversion among them (Rom 12:13, Heb 13:2).
4. Divine Enablement for Mission: The material provision equipped Paul to continue his mission to Rome. God’s care extends to all aspects of His servants' lives, ensuring they are able to fulfill their calling. This verse underscores how human generosity, inspired by divine acts, facilitates the spread of the Gospel.Examples for practical usage:

• Supporting missionaries through financial or practical gifts.
• Responding with grateful generosity to those who minister spiritual truths.
• Recognizing and blessing those whom God has used to bring healing or spiritual benefit into your life.