And it happened that the father of Publius lay sick of a fever and dysentery. Paul went in to him and prayed, and he laid his hands on him and healed him. So when this was done, the rest of those on the island who had diseases also came and were healed.
Acts 28:8-9
The natives of the island of Malta were said to have shown Paul and his companions “unusual kindness; for they kindled a fire and made us all welcome, because of the rain that was falling and because of the cold.” (v. 2) Later we read in v. 7 that Publius, who was likely the governor, “received us and entertained us courteously for three days.” In return for this kindness shown the Lord’s servant, our text today tells us that Publius’ father along the rest of the sick on the island were all healed!
We’ve seen this blessing on others elsewhere in Scripture due to their care for God’s people. Though Potiphar likely worshiped false gods like the other Egyptians, Gen 39:5 tells us “the Lord blessed the Egyptian’s house for Joseph’s sake; and the blessing of the Lord was on all that he had in the house and in the field.” If the world understood this principle, there would certainly be less animosity toward the children of God!
But there is one further point to make. The people of Malta did indeed enjoy natural blessings as a result of their kindness to Paul, but they were also left accountable as they heard and saw his witness among them. Sooner or later, men will have to pick sides. Potiphar appreciated Joseph like Herod did John the Baptist (Gen 39:4, Mar 6:20), but both men failed when put on the spot. (Gen 39:19,20, Mar 6:25-28) They sided with the world rather than with God’s men. It is a blessing to have the light for a season, but that blessing becomes a curse if men ultimately walk away from it. They are now more accountable, and “it would have been better for them not to have known the way of righteousness, than having known it, to turn from the holy commandment delivered to them.” (2Pe 2:21)
Jamie