Asbury Bible Commentary – B. Shipwreck (27:14-44)
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B. Shipwreck (27:14-44)

B. Shipwreck (27:14-44)

Caught between Fair Havens and Phoenix by a northeaster, in the shelter of Cauda, the ship finds brief respite to rig for the storm (vv.14-16). Fearing that the storm would drive them onto the deadly quicksands (Syrtis) of the north coast of Africa, they lowered the sails, threw out the cargo (other than the wheat that was so vital to Rome) and the ship’s equipment, and gave themselves to the mercy of the storm (vv.17-20).

Since Paul’s prediction had come to pass, the centurion begins to listen when Paul claims that God has promised the lives of all on the ship and follows Paul’s orders, which enables all to arrive safely on Malta (vv.21-44). Undoubtedly the steadfastness of Paul’s reliance upon God and the witness of his trust in God in the face of death must have moved Julius.