Acts 27:43 Meaning and Explanation
“But the centurion, willing to save Paul, kept them from their purpose; and commanded that they which could swim should cast themselves first into the sea, and get to land:”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →The centurion, wanting to save Paul, stops the plan and orders the swimmers to jump overboard first and make for land.
What Does Acts 27:43 Mean?
Julius, the centurion, intervenes. Wishing to save Paul, he forbids the killing and instead orders those who can swim to leap into the sea first and make for shore. The desire to spare one man becomes the salvation of all the prisoners.
Once more God works deliverance through the goodwill He has placed in a Gentile officer's heart (cf. v. 3). For Paul's sake, every prisoner is spared. The presence of one whom God favors becomes a shield over many. So the Lord 'turneth... the heart' of rulers as He wills (Proverbs 21:1), and uses one man's regard for His servant to fulfill the promise that not a single life would be lost.
Frequently Asked Questions About Acts 27:43
What does Acts 27:43 mean?
The centurion, wanting to save Paul, stops the plan and orders the swimmers to jump overboard first and make for land.