Acts 28: Expository Preaching and Study Guide

Overview

Acts 28 concludes the Book of Acts, chronicling Paul’s final journey to Rome and the fulfillment of God’s promise that Paul would bear witness before Caesar (Acts 23:11). Shipwrecked on the island of Malta, Paul performs miracles, gains favor among the islanders, and eventually arrives in Rome where he continues to proclaim the gospel — even under house arrest.

Key events include:

Paul surviving a snakebite and healing the sick on Malta (vv. 1–10)
The journey from Malta to Rome (vv. 11–16)
Paul’s meeting with Jewish leaders in Rome and his gospel proclamation (vv. 17–28)
The final portrait of Paul boldly teaching the kingdom of God (vv. 30–31)

This chapter is a powerful testimony to God’s providence, the unstoppable nature of the gospel, and the sovereign Lordship of Christ, who fulfills His mission through faithful witnesses.

It upholds biblical inerrancy and authority, portraying real historical events that demonstrate how God accomplishes His redemptive purposes through human agents despite opposition, suffering, or delay.

Historical and Literary Context

Historical Setting:

Paul is under Roman custody following his appeal to Caesar (Acts 25:11).
Malta was a small island in the Mediterranean Sea. The natives showed kindness to the shipwrecked crew.
Rome, the capital of the Roman Empire, was the center of political and cultural power in the ancient world.
The Jewish community in Rome was sizable and diverse. Paul’s appeal to them continues his pattern of gospel-first-to-the-Jews.

Literary Features:

Acts 28 functions as the climax and resolution of Luke’s two-part volume (Luke–Acts), ending not with finality but with gospel momentum.
The literary style of Acts 28, consistent with the rest of Acts, includes historical narrative, dialogue, and eyewitness detail.
Luke ends the book not with Paul‘s death, but with a hopeful picture of the gospel going forth unhindered (v. 31), in keeping with the broader biblical storyline of mission.

Evangelical Affirmation:

We affirm the literal and historical truth of the events recorded in Acts.
Acts is not a mythological account or theological fiction but the inspired, inerrant Word of God, suitable for doctrine, reproof, correction, and instruction in righteousness (2 Timothy 3:16).

Key Themes and Doctrinal Points

1. God’s Sovereignty Over History and Nature

Paul’s protection from the viper (v. 5) and the healing of the sick (v. 8) display God’s power over nature and physical affliction.
The journey to Rome, filled with detours and delays, fulfills God’s sovereign plan declared earlier (Acts 23:11; 27:24).
Application: God’s providence governs the lives of His servants. Our calling remains secure even in chaos.

2. The Gospel for All Nations

Paul addresses both Jews and Gentiles in Rome, embodying the call of the gospel to all peoples.
His quotation of Isaiah 6:9–10 (vv. 26–27) reinforces a key transition in redemptive history: the opening of the gospel to the Gentiles.
Application: The mission of the church is global. The gospel is not hindered by national boundaries, persecution, or political systems.

3. The Kingdom of God

The chapter ends with Paul “proclaiming the kingdom of God and teaching about the Lord Jesus Christ” (v. 31).
This kingdom is both present in the proclamation of the gospel and future in the return of Christ.
Application: The church must boldly proclaim the kingdom, recognizing that Christ reigns now and will consummate His reign at His return.

4. Boldness in Witness

Paul’s continued preaching “with all boldness and without hindrance” (v. 31) provides a model for enduring gospel witness despite limitations.
Application: Whether free or in chains, believers are called to faithfully declare the truth of Christ.

5. The Authority of Scripture

Paul‘s final theological argument is grounded in Scripture (Isaiah 6), affirming the authority of the Old Testament and its relevance in gospel proclamation.
Application: Scripture remains central to evangelism, discipleship, and apologetics.

6. Rejection and Reception of the Gospel

Some were persuaded by Paul‘s message; others disbelieved (v. 24). This division highlights human responsibility and divine sovereignty in salvation.
Application: Faithful proclamation may be met with both acceptance and rejection. The task is to proclaim, trusting God with the results.

Verse-by-Verse Analysis (Acts 28:1-31)

Verses 1–6 – Paul on Malta: Divine Protection

“Paul gathered a pile of brushwood, and as he put it on the fire, a viper…fastened itself on his hand.” (v. 3)

Explanation: The island of Malta becomes a providential place of ministry. Paul’s survival from the snakebite displays God’s supernatural protection (cf. Mark 16:18). The pagan assumption that Paul was a murderer turns to reverence, showing God’s power in reversing circumstances (cf. Romans 8:28).
Doctrinal Insight: God preserves His servants according to His will. This event is a testimony to divine sovereignty over nature and protection of His messengers.
Application: Trust God’s protection in trials. His purposes will not be thwarted.

Verses 7–10 – Healing and Honor

“Paul went in to see him and, after prayer, placed his hands on him and healed him.” (v. 8)

Explanation: Paul ministers to Publius’ father and others. His healing ministry echoes Christ’s own healing (Luke 4:40), pointing to apostolic authority and God’s compassion.
Cross-Reference: Acts 3:6-8; James 5:14-15.
Application: Use every opportunity to serve and testify, whether in hardship or comfort.

Verses 11–16 – Journey to Rome

“And so we came to Rome.” (v. 14)

Explanation: This fulfills God’s promise in Acts 23:11. Paul is placed under house arrest but allowed visitors.
Doctrinal Insight: God’s word never fails. Even when the journey is delayed, His purpose is accomplished.

Verses 17–22 – Meeting the Jewish Leaders

“I have done nothing against our people or against the customs of our ancestors.” (v. 17)

Explanation: Paul explains his legal status and spiritual mission. He emphasizes continuity with Jewish hope and Messianic expectation.
Cross-Reference: Acts 24:14-16; Romans 9:1-5.

Verses 23–28 – Proclaiming the Kingdom and the Rejection by Some

“Some were convinced…but others would not believe.” (v. 24)

Explanation: Paul explains the gospel from the Law and Prophets. The division among the Jews fulfills Isaiah’s prophecy about hardened hearts (Isaiah 6:9-10).
Theological Insight: This moment reflects the partial hardening of Israel (Romans 11:25) and the opening of salvation to the Gentiles (v. 28).
Application: Bold gospel witness may lead to both belief and rejection. Remain faithful.

Verses 30–31 – The Unhindered Gospel

“He proclaimed the kingdom of God…with all boldness and without hindrance!”

Explanation: The book ends on a triumphant note. Paul, though imprisoned, is free to preach. The gospel is not bound (2 Timothy 2:9).
Literary Note: The open-ended conclusion implies the ongoing mission of the church.
Application: No opposition can silence the gospel. Preach Christ boldly.

Theological Implications and Connection to Jesus Christ

Acts 28, though Paul-centered in narrative, ultimately points to Jesus Christ:

1. Christ as the Fulfillment of the Scriptures

Paul explains the gospel using the Law and the Prophets (v. 23), affirming Christ’s fulfillment of Old Testament prophecy (cf. Luke 24:27). The gospel Paul preaches is not a new religion but the climax of redemptive history centered in Jesus.

2. Jesus as the Messiah for All People

Paul’s message to Jews and Gentiles affirms the universal Lordship of Jesus (cf. Romans 1:16). Jesus is the promised Savior not only for Israel but for all nations.

3. Jesus’ Resurrection as the Gospel Foundation

Paul references “the hope of Israel” (v. 20), alluding to the resurrection of the dead, which is grounded in Christ’s resurrection (Acts 26:6-8; 1 Corinthians 15:3-8). The risen Christ is the living King whom Paul proclaims.

4. Christ in Paul’s Ministry

Paul’s sufferings, healings, and mission echo the life and ministry of Christ. Just as Jesus was falsely accused yet continued to proclaim truth, so does Paul. His bold proclamation under house arrest reflects Christ’s own boldness under trial (cf. John 18:37).

Connection to God the Father

Acts 28 demonstrates the sovereign hand of God the Father in orchestrating all things according to His redemptive plan:

1. The Father’s Providential Guidance

God ensures Paul’s survival (vv. 3–6), success in ministry (vv. 7–10), and arrival in Rome (v. 14).
This affirms God’s sovereign control over history, nature, and nations.

2. The Father’s Faithfulness to His Promises

God promised Paul would testify in Rome (Acts 23:11). That promise is fulfilled in Acts 28.
God keeps His covenant and accomplishes His purposes (cf. Isa. 46:10).

3. The Father’s Heart for the Nations

The shift from the Jewish rejection to Gentile inclusion (vv. 26–28) reflects God’s broader redemptive plan (cf. Genesis 12:3; Isaiah 49:6).
God is not limited to one nation; He desires all people to be saved and come to the knowledge of the truth (1 Timothy 2:4).

Connection to the Holy Spirit

Although Acts 28 does not explicitly mention the Holy Spirit by name, His presence and power are evident throughout the chapter and consistent with the ongoing ministry of the Spirit in the book of Acts.

1. The Spirit’s Preservation and Empowerment

The Holy Spirit sustains Paul through trials — including the shipwreck, snakebite, and imprisonment — reflecting the promise of Acts 1:8 that the Spirit empowers witnesses.
The miracles in Malta (vv. 7–9) echo the Spirit’s healing ministry in Acts 3 and 5.

2. The Spirit’s Boldness in Proclamation

Paul‘s courage to preach the gospel “with all boldness and without hindrance” (v. 31) is a mark of Spirit-filled preaching (cf. Acts 4:31).
The Spirit emboldens believers, even in persecution or confinement.

3. The Spirit’s Role in the Mission to the Gentiles

The transition from Jewish rejection to Gentile reception (vv. 24–28) aligns with the Spirit’s mission to empower the church to be witnesses “to the ends of the earth” (Acts 1:8).

Sermon Outline and Flow

Sermon Title: Unhindered: The Gospel Goes Forth

Text: Acts 28:1-31

Homiletical Big Idea: God’s mission continues by the power of the Holy Spirit through faithful witnesses, even in the face of hardship, rejection, and delay.

I. God Preserves His Servant for His Purpose (vv. 1–10)

Point: Paul’s survival and healing ministry on Malta reveal God’s hand.

Illustration: Like a soldier equipped for a mission, Paul is protected by God until the mission is complete.
Application: Trust God in detours. He may use unexpected circumstances to expand your influence for Christ.

II. God Fulfills His Promise through Providential Guidance (vv. 11–16)

Point: Despite delays, Paul reaches Rome according to God’s word.

Example: God used a shipwreck to get Paul exactly where He needed him.
Application: God is always on time. What looks like a setback may be a setup for His glory.

III. The Gospel Divides, But God’s Word Stands (vv. 17–28)

Point: Paul faithfully proclaims Christ to the Jews; some believe, some reject.

Illustration: A spotlight reveals both the beauty and the blemishes — the gospel reveals hearts.
Application: Be faithful to share the truth, even when the results are mixed. It’s God who opens hearts.

IV. The Mission Continues: The Gospel Goes Forth Unhindered (vv. 30–31)

Point: Though Paul is chained, the Word of God is not.

Example: Many imprisoned pastors today continue to share the gospel, impacting others despite their chains.
Application: No circumstance can limit God’s Word. Preach, teach, and disciple wherever God places you.

Conclusion and Call to Action

Recap:

God’s mission cannot be stopped.
The Spirit empowers bold witnesses like Paul.
The gospel must be proclaimed, regardless of circumstances.

Call to Action:

Will you be faithful to your gospel calling, even when life doesn’t go as planned?
Ask the Holy Spirit to embolden you to preach Christ with courage and clarity.
Open your home, your workplace, your heart to proclaim Christ — without hindrance.

“He proclaimed the kingdom of God…with all boldness and without hindrance!” (v. 31)

Illustrations and Examples

1. Mission in a Prison Cell

In 1956, Richard Wurmbrand, a Romanian pastor, was imprisoned for 14 years for preaching Christ. In his cell, he preached to fellow inmates using Morse code and whispered messages — the gospel could not be silenced.
Connection: Like Paul, Wurmbrand shows that nothing can hinder God’s Word when the Holy Spirit empowers the messenger.

2. Modern-Day Detour

A Christian businessman missed a flight that crashed. Struck by God’s providence, he dedicated his life to full-time missions. That “delay” redirected his life for a greater purpose.
Connection: Malta wasn’t Paul‘s plan, but it was God’s platform.

3. Virtual Evangelist

During COVID lockdowns, a young believer began sharing the gospel through social media. Though isolated, she reached hundreds.
Connection: Like Paul under house arrest, we may be physically limited, but the Word of God is never bound.

Application for Today’s Christian

Acts 28 is rich in practical application. It teaches believers how to remain faithful in mission, persevere in trials, and trust in God’s sovereign hand.

1. Faithful Discipleship in Every Season

Paul models perseverance despite hardships — shipwreck, opposition, and imprisonment. Discipleship involves endurance and unwavering obedience to Christ.
Practical Application: Whether in a workplace, hospital bed, or home, remain committed to following Christ. Use every context as a mission field.

2. Stewardship of Opportunities

Paul used every opportunity — including his house arrest — to preach the kingdom of God (v. 31).
Practical Application: Steward your time, talents, and limitations for God’s glory. Use platforms like social media, coffee conversations, or caregiving moments to proclaim Christ.

3. Boldness in Witness

The chapter closes with Paul preaching “with all boldness and without hindrance.” That boldness came from the Holy Spirit and conviction in the gospel.
Practical Application: Speak the truth in love. Pray for courage to share the gospel at school, work, or within your family.

4. Resilience in Rejection

Many rejected Paul’s message (v. 24), but he didn’t stop proclaiming the truth.
Practical Application: Don’t be discouraged when others resist the gospel. Sow seeds faithfully and trust God for the harvest.

Connection to God’s Love

Acts 28 illustrates God’s tender and sovereign love for humanity through protection, provision, and proclamation.

1. God’s Love Seen in Providence

God saved Paul and the ship’s passengers (Acts 27:24), guided him to Malta, and opened doors for healing and witness. These acts show divine care and purpose.
Redemptive Love: God doesn’t just preserve lives; He transforms them by using ordinary and extraordinary means for His glory and our good.

2. God’s Love Seen in the Gospel’s Reach

The gospel reaching Rome — the heart of the Gentile world — is a powerful demonstration that God’s love is not limited by race, geography, or culture.
Restorative Love: God extends the gospel even to those who initially reject it. His arms are always open to repentant hearts.

3. God’s Love in Paul’s Ministry

Paul’s healing of Publius’ father (v. 8) and his kindness to strangers reflect the compassion of Christ, showing that God’s love flows through His people.
Practical Reflection: Are we instruments of God’s love and healing to others?

Broader Biblical Themes

Acts 28 connects deeply to the grand storyline of Scripture. It reveals how God’s redemptive plan unfolds across history.

1. Redemption

The whole book of Acts, culminating in chapter 28, is the story of redemption expanding beyond Jerusalem to the nations (cf. Acts 1:8).
Parallel: Just as Joseph said in Genesis 50:20, “What was meant for evil, God meant for good,” Paul’s trials serve the gospel’s progress.

2. The Kingdom of God

The final verse emphasizes Paul preaching the kingdom — Christ’s rule over all creation, inaugurated through His death and resurrection (cf. Luke 4:43; Colossians 1:13).
Connection: The mission of the church is to declare this kingdom until Christ returns in glory.

3. Covenant Fulfillment

God’s promise to Abraham — that through his seed all nations would be blessed (Genesis 12:3) — is being fulfilled as Gentiles hear and believe the gospel.
Application: We are participants in this covenant mission, bearing the message of Christ to every people group.

4. Creation and Re-Creation

Paul‘s healing on Malta mirrors Jesus’ works and anticipates the new creation where sickness and death are no more (Revelation 21:4).
Hope: The gospel restores what was broken in Eden, pointing to final restoration in Christ.

Reflection Questions

Use these questions to encourage deeper engagement with Acts 28, helping individuals or small groups reflect on God’s Word and apply it to everyday life.

Spiritual Reflection

How have you seen God use unexpected circumstances in your life, like Paul’s shipwreck or imprisonment, to open new doors for ministry?
What does Paul’s unwavering commitment to preach Christ, even while under house arrest, teach you about perseverance in faith and ministry?

Scriptural Authority and Understanding

Why is it important to see Paul‘s message to the Jews and Gentiles as grounded in the Law and the Prophets? How does this affirm the unity and authority of the Bible?
How does Acts 28 challenge us to boldly proclaim the gospel “without hindrance,” regardless of our situation or setting?

Christ-Centered Application

In what ways does this chapter point to Jesus and His kingdom? How should that shape the way you view your daily calling as a follower of Christ?
Paul preached the kingdom of God. What does it mean for you to live as a citizen of Christ’s kingdom today — in your family, work, or church?

Personal and Communal Faith

How do you respond when people reject or resist the message of Jesus? What can you learn from Paul’s courage and clarity in Acts 28?
What steps can you take to be more intentional about sharing the gospel in your current environment — even in places that feel restricting or discouraging?

Mission and Stewardship

Paul stewarded every moment and relationship for the gospel. What has God placed in your life right now that He wants you to use for His glory?
How can your small group or church be part of continuing the “unhindered” mission of Acts in your community or beyond?