Where is Malta mentioned in the Bible? Introduction Malta is a small island located in the central Mediterranean Sea, south of Sicily. In the Scriptures, it is most famously associated with the Apostle Paul’s shipwreck and subsequent ministry on the island. Although the island is only directly mentioned in one biblical account, this pivotal event highlights themes of divine providence, hospitality, miraculous healing, and the ongoing power of the gospel message spreading across the ancient world. Biblical References and Terminology The New Testament uses the name “Malta” (Greek: Μελίτη, Melitē), though some older English translations may render it “Melita.” The primary passage referencing Malta is found in the Book of Acts. Specifically: • Acts 28:1: “Once we were safely ashore, we learned that the island was called Malta.” Many scholars note that this island, identified by Luke as Malta, aligns geographically with the modern nation of Malta. It is south of Sicily and features many natural harbors, which helps corroborate the details of Paul’s maritime journey described in Acts 27–28. Context in the Book of Acts In the broader storyline of Acts, the Apostle Paul was under Roman custody, traveling by ship from Caesarea to Rome to stand trial before Caesar (Acts 25–26). The ship faced significant storms, culminating in the well-known shipwreck that led Paul and all 276 souls aboard to swim or float safely ashore on Malta (Acts 27:27–44). Luke, Paul’s companion and the author of Acts, provides meticulous detail about sea travel, the nature of the storm, and the sequence of events leading up to the wreck. These details have been studied extensively by historians and maritime experts, many of whom find Luke’s account consistent with known navigation methods and weather patterns in the Mediterranean region. Hospitality of the Islanders Upon landing on Malta, Paul and the others encountered people who “showed us extraordinary kindness” (Acts 28:2). Despite the language and cultural barriers, the Maltese inhabitants assisted the survivors by building fires to keep them warm. This act of hospitality underscores a broader theme of graciousness that appears repeatedly in biblical narratives, exemplifying neighborly love and mercy. The Snake Incident One of the better-known events during Paul’s stay on Malta is his encounter with a viper. As Paul gathered wood for a fire, a snake fastened onto his hand (Acts 28:3). The islanders immediately concluded that Paul must be a murderer or someone cursed. However, Paul simply shook off the creature without harm. When he suffered no ill effects, those nearby changed their view and supposed him to be under divine protection (Acts 28:4–6). Luke’s record of this episode demonstrates the open acknowledgment in ancient culture that sudden misfortune or its avoidance often carried spiritual significance. It also illustrates that Paul’s ministry to the Gentiles was authenticated by miracles, in agreement with the broader scriptural theme of God confirming His messengers and message through signs (cf. Mark 16:18). Ministry on Malta and Miraculous Healings Another significant section of Acts 28 describes Paul’s role in healing the father of Publius, the chief official on the island: • Acts 28:7–8: “Nearby stood an estate belonging to Publius, the chief official of the island. He welcomed us and entertained us hospitably for three days. The father of Publius was sick in bed, suffering from fever and dysentery. Paul went in to see him, and after praying and laying his hands on him, he healed him.” After this healing, many other people on the island came to Paul and were also cured (Acts 28:9). The text suggests an outpouring of God’s power, revealing how the message of salvation often arrived with miraculous works, opening hearts to receive divine truth. While the text does not explicitly state subsequent conversions, early church tradition holds that a community of believers could have been established on Malta as a result of Paul’s brief but impactful visit. Paul’s Departure and Legacy Paul and the rest of the shipwreck survivors stayed on Malta for roughly three months until a suitable Alexandrian ship was available (Acts 28:11). The vessel bore the figureheads of the Twin Brothers (Castor and Pollux), indicating that Luke’s account carefully notes cultural and religious symbols familiar to the Greco-Roman world. Once the winter had passed, Paul, under Roman guard, continued on his journey to Rome. Though Scripture does not record a formal church planting in Malta by Paul, Maltese tradition and historical church writings maintain that Paul’s three-month stay profoundly influenced the island. Even today, Malta retains a rich Christian heritage tied to this New Testament event. Historical and Archaeological Insights Outside the biblical narrative, there is ongoing research into ancient anchor stocks and other findings in Maltese waters that may date from the Roman period. While the identification of specific shipwreck materials from Paul’s exact vessel is debated, these archaeological interests underscore Malta’s significance as an active maritime hub during the first century. Additionally, historical records from the Roman era corroborate that merchant and military ships regularly traversed this route, consistent with Luke’s account of the journey along the Mediterranean coasts. Relevance to Scriptural Consistency The mention of Malta in Acts 28 displays typical hallmarks of Luke’s careful historical style. Scholars who study ancient geography and navigation generally find the details about the shipwreck, local customs, and the timing of the seasons to be realistic, aligning with external historical sources. These factors strengthen the reliability of the text, affirming that Luke’s purpose was not to craft legend but rather to report truthful events in the spread of the gospel. Conclusion Malta appears in the biblical record solely within Acts 27–28, but its role is key to understanding the Apostle Paul’s journey to Rome and the providential care that accompanied him. The detailed account underscores enduring messages of hospitality, divine power in miracle-working, and the unstoppable spread of Christ’s message. Alongside geography, archaeology, and consistent internal evidence, the reference to Malta helps verify the historical trustworthiness of Luke’s writings. It also provides a glimpse into the ways God’s purpose for salvation crossed seas, cultures, and trials—revealing an overarching plan that is confirmed by Scripture and resonates throughout history. |
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