Acts 28:3

Paul gathered a bundle of sticks, and as he laid them on the fire, a viper, driven out by the heat, fastened itself to his hand.

Study Bible

Paul gathered a bundle of sticks
The act of gathering sticks by Paul is significant in demonstrating his humility and servant leadership. Despite being an apostle, Paul does not consider himself above performing menial tasks. The Greek word for "gathered" (συνάγω, synagō) implies a deliberate and purposeful action. This reflects Paul's character as one who is diligent and willing to serve others, embodying the teachings of Christ who came to serve and not to be served (Mark 10:45).

and as he laid them on the fire
The fire represents warmth and survival, crucial for the shipwrecked group on the island of Malta. The Greek word for "laid" (ἐπιτίθημι, epitithēmi) suggests an intentional placement, indicating Paul's careful and thoughtful nature. This action also symbolizes the light and warmth of the Gospel that Paul spreads wherever he goes, igniting faith and hope in the hearts of those he encounters.

a viper
The viper is a symbol of danger and evil, often associated with Satan in biblical literature (Genesis 3:1, Revelation 12:9). The presence of the viper in this narrative serves as a reminder of the spiritual warfare that believers face. It also highlights the reality of unexpected challenges in the Christian journey, even when one is engaged in seemingly mundane tasks.

driven out by the heat
The heat from the fire causes the viper to emerge, symbolizing how the light of Christ exposes and drives out darkness. The Greek word for "driven out" (ἐκπίπτω, ekpiptō) can also mean to fall away or be cast out, illustrating the transformative power of God's presence that reveals and expels evil. This serves as an encouragement to believers that the presence of God in their lives will bring to light and overcome hidden dangers.

fastened itself to his hand
The viper fastening itself to Paul's hand is a vivid image of the trials and persecutions that believers may face. The Greek word for "fastened" (καθίστημι, kathistēmi) implies a firm grip, indicating the severity of the attack. However, Paul's subsequent unharmed state (as described in the following verses) demonstrates God's protection and faithfulness. This incident serves as a testament to the promise that no weapon formed against God's people will prosper (Isaiah 54:17), and it encourages believers to trust in God's deliverance amidst adversity.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Paul
The apostle who is central to this event. He is on the island of Malta after surviving a shipwreck. His actions and reactions in this passage demonstrate his faith and resilience.

2. Malta
The island where Paul and his companions find themselves after the shipwreck. The local inhabitants show them unusual kindness, which sets the stage for the events that follow.

3. Viper
A snake that emerges from the bundle of sticks Paul gathers. Its bite is expected to be deadly, but Paul remains unharmed, which astonishes the onlookers.

4. Fire
The fire is significant as it provides warmth and reveals the viper. It symbolizes both physical and spiritual illumination.

5. Local Inhabitants
The people of Malta who witness the event. Their initial reaction is one of superstition, but they later recognize the power of God through Paul's survival.

Teaching Points

God's Protection
Paul's survival of the viper's bite is a testament to God's protection over His servants. Believers can trust in God's sovereignty and care in dangerous situations.

Faith in Action
Paul's calmness and lack of fear demonstrate a deep faith in God's promises. Christians are encouraged to remain steadfast in faith, even when faced with unexpected challenges.

Witness to Others
The reaction of the local inhabitants shows how God's power can be a witness to non-believers. Our lives and testimonies can lead others to recognize God's presence and power.

Overcoming Superstition
The initial reaction of the locals was based on superstition. This event challenges believers to rely on God's truth rather than cultural or superstitious beliefs.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Paul's reaction to the viper's bite demonstrate his faith in God's protection, and how can we apply this in our own lives when facing unexpected challenges?

2. In what ways does this event on Malta serve as a witness to the power of God, and how can we be witnesses in our own communities?

3. How does the reaction of the local inhabitants reflect common human tendencies towards superstition, and how can we guard against such tendencies in our faith journey?

4. What other biblical examples can you think of where God protected His servants in seemingly dangerous situations, and what do these accounts teach us about God's character?

5. How can we apply the lesson of overcoming fear with faith in our daily lives, especially when faced with situations that seem beyond our control?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Mark 16:18
This verse speaks of believers handling snakes without harm, which directly connects to Paul's experience with the viper.

Luke 10:19
Jesus gives His disciples authority over serpents, which is exemplified in Paul's encounter with the viper.

Psalm 91:13
This verse speaks of treading on serpents, symbolizing God's protection over His faithful servants.