In the same quarters were possessions of the chief man of the island, whose name was Publius; who received us, and lodged us three days courteously.

ACTS 28:7KJV
Know the Bible

Acts 28:7 (KJV)

What does Acts 28:7 mean?

Acts 28:7 describes how Publius, the leading man on the island where Paul and his companions had been shipwrecked, welcomed them and generously hosted them for three days. The verse highlights the kindness and hospitality shown to Paul and his group by someone in authority on Malta.

The book of Acts is telling the story of Paul after he survived a shipwreck and landed on the island of Malta. The writer, Luke, notes that Publius, who is described as the "chief man" of the island, took them in and cared for them courteously. This sets the stage for the events that follow, where Paul interacts further with the islanders and performs acts of healing.

The Greek behind Acts 28:7

  • The word for "chief man" is πρῶτος (prōtos), which means "first" or "leading." This shows that Publius was not just a wealthy resident but held a position of authority or leadership on Malta.
  • The word for "courteously" is φιλοφρόνως (philophronōs), meaning "with friendliness" or "kindness." The Greek emphasizes that Publius's hospitality was warm and generous, not just a formal duty.
  • The word for "possessions" is χωρία (chōria), which often means "lands" or "estates." This suggests Publius had significant property, reinforcing his status on the island.

Why Acts 28:7 matters

  • Acts 28:7 helps clarify that Paul and his companions were not left to fend for themselves after the shipwreck; they received practical help from the most influential person on the island.
  • The verse highlights the theme of hospitality and kindness from unexpected sources, which is a recurring pattern in Acts as the early Christians travel.
  • By introducing Publius here, the narrative prepares the reader for the miracles and further interactions that will take place in the following verses, showing how relationships and goodwill open doors for Paul's ministry.

Where else these words appear

“Publius” Greek G4196 · used in 2 verses

  • Acts 28:8 And it came to pass, that the father of Publius lay sick of a fever and of a bloody flux: to whom Paul entered in, and prayed, and laid his hands on him, and healed him.

“received” Greek G324 · used in 2 verses

  • Hebrews 11:17 By faith Abraham, when he was tried, offered up Isaac: and he that had received the promises offered up his only begotten son,

“possessions” Greek G5564 · used in 9 verses

  • Matthew 26:36 Then cometh Jesus with them unto a place called Gethsemane, and saith unto the disciples, Sit ye here, while I go and pray yonder.
  • John 4:5 Then cometh he to a city of Samaria, which is called Sychar, near to the parcel of ground that Jacob gave to his son Joseph.
  • Acts 4:34 Neither was there any among them that lacked: for as many as were possessors of lands or houses sold them, and brought the prices of the things that were sold,

“island” Greek G3520 · used in 9 verses

  • Acts 13:6 And when they had gone through the isle unto Paphos, they found a certain sorcerer, a false prophet, a Jew, whose name was Barjesus:
  • Acts 28:1 And when they were escaped, then they knew that the island was called Melita.
  • Revelation 1:9 I John, who also am your brother, and companion in tribulation, and in the kingdom and patience of Jesus Christ, was in the isle that is called Patmos, for the word of God, and for the testimony of Jesus Christ.