Acts 27:21 Meaning and Explanation
“But after long abstinence Paul stood forth in the midst of them, and said, Sirs, ye should have hearkened unto me, and not have loosed from Crete, and to have gained this harm and loss.”
King James Version (KJV)
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Read Full Chapter →After long fasting, Paul stands and reminds them they should have heeded his earlier warning.
What Does Acts 27:21 Mean?
After a long stretch without proper food, with everyone exhausted and despairing, Paul rises in their midst. He recalls his unheeded warning at Crete (v. 10) — not to shame them, but to establish his credibility for the word of hope he is about to give. If they had listened before, they would have been spared this harm.
Paul's 'ye should have hearkened' is not cruel gloating but the firm ground on which his coming comfort stands: the man who rightly foresaw the danger now speaks of deliverance, and they have every reason to listen. Sometimes a true word must first be vindicated by events before despairing hearts will receive it. God raises His servant to speak hope precisely when hope is gone.
Frequently Asked Questions About Acts 27:21
What does Acts 27:21 mean?
After long fasting, Paul stands and reminds them they should have heeded his earlier warning.