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Act 27:23 For there stood by me this night an angel of the God to whom I belong and whom I
serve,

Paul states an angel stood by him. He wants to establish his office and God’s confirmation of it
so these men will listen to his commands. God will preserve Paul and all those around him.
These people are being blessed by being in Paul’s presence. Paul makes a distinction between
the new birth in his life and service to God. The new birth is not service.

Act 27:24 saying, 'Do not be afraid, Paul; you must be brought before Caesar; and indeed God
has granted you all those who sail with you.'

Saying, Fear not, Paul; thou must (it is necessary) be brought before Caesar (Nero): and, lo, God
hath given thee all them that sail with thee.

Even Paul had begun to worry. Paul is the one on this ship who is predominantly under attack
by Satan. His faith is keeping the ship afloat. If fear is permitted to enter, Paul’s faith will not
work, and this ship will be lost. An angel appears to Paul to bolster his confidence, and the
other passengers benefit.

Paul is “salt” on this voyage and preserving the entire crew. Paul’s ministry is not yet
completed. His faith is active again. He will stand before Caesar, and he has complete
confidence knowing no devil or storm will destroy him.
Act 27:25 Therefore take heart, men, for I believe God that it will be just as it was told me.

This encouragement comes directly from God. Even though Paul speaks the words, he is
delivering God’s word to the men. This word will be received and acted upon and come to
pass. God’s Word never fails and is always fulfilled.

Act 27:26 However, we must run aground on a certain island."

This certain island was Miletas (Acts 28:1).

God has a plan for Paul, the people with him, and the inhabitants of the island. They will be
evangelized by the healing and saving power of God.

Act 27:27 Now when the fourteenth night had come, as we were driven up and down in the
Adriatic Sea, about midnight the sailors sensed that they were drawing near some land.

But when the fourteenth night was come, as we were driven up and down in Adria, about
midnight the shipmen (crew) deemed (suspicioned) that they drew near to some country
(land);

At this time, Paul and those on board the ship are completely at the mercy of the wind and
waves. Adria is a port on the Mediterranean between Italy and Macedonia, which crosses the
path of Paul’s ship. This area is near the island of Miletas.