Acts 28:11 – “After three months we put out to sea in a ship that had wintered in the island—it was an Alexandrian ship with the figurehead of the twin gods Castor and Pollux.”

Extended Explanation of the Verse

After spending three months on the island of Malta following their shipwreck, Paul and his companions finally resumed their journey toward Rome. The wait was necessary because it was winter, a dangerous season for sailing in the Mediterranean. When conditions improved, they found passage on an Alexandrian ship that had been docked in Malta.

Luke, the writer of Acts, provides an interesting detail about the figurehead of the ship—Castor and Pollux. These were twin gods from Roman mythology, believed to protect sailors. While Luke does not comment on this symbol, its mention shows the contrast between the Roman beliefs of the time and the true power of God, who had already shown His protection over Paul.

This verse marks the final stage of Paul’s long journey to Rome. Though he had faced storms, shipwreck, imprisonment, and even a snakebite, God’s promise remained true—Paul would make it to Rome (Acts 23:11).

Historical Context

Why wait three months?
Ancient Mediterranean sailing was dangerous during the winter months (November–February), so most ships would stop traveling until conditions improved. Paul and his companions had shipwrecked around late October (Acts 27:9), meaning they had to wait out the worst of the weather before attempting to sail again.

Why an Alexandrian ship?
Alexandria (in Egypt) was one of the largest grain-exporting cities in the Roman Empire. Grain ships were common in the Mediterranean, transporting food from Egypt to Rome. These ships were large and sturdy, built to carry cargo and passengers. The ship Paul was now boarding was likely similar to the one he had originally traveled on before the shipwreck (Acts 27:6).

Who were Castor and Pollux?
Castor and Pollux (the Dioscuri) were twin brothers in Greek and Roman mythology, believed to be sons of Zeus. They were patron gods of sailors, thought to bring good luck and protection on sea voyages. Many Roman ships had their images on the bow for protection.

Paul, of course, did not put his trust in these pagan gods. He had already been through a storm where the Roman sailors’ superstitions had failed, but God’s promise had held true (Acts 27:23-25). This reminds us that worldly symbols of luck and protection are meaningless compared to the power of the one true God.

Theological Implications

1. God’s timing is perfect. Paul had to wait three months before continuing his journey. Sometimes, God’s plans involve waiting, but His timing is always best.
2. God, not superstition, is our protector. The Romans trusted in idols like Castor and Pollux, but Paul knew his safety came from God alone.
3. God fulfills His promises. Paul had been told by God that he would reach Rome (Acts 23:11), and despite obstacles, that promise was coming true.
4. God provides the means for His people to accomplish His will. The shipwreck could have left Paul stranded, but God made sure he had another way to reach Rome.

Literary Analysis

Luke’s writing is detailed, emphasizing historical accuracy. Mentioning “three months” shows careful chronology, confirming the delay caused by winter.

The reference to Castor and Pollux adds irony. The sailors may have believed these gods protected them, but the real reason for their safety was God’s providence. This subtle contrast reminds the reader that true power and protection come from the Lord.

Additionally, this verse serves as a transitional point in Acts. Paul’s ministry in Malta is complete, and now the focus shifts back to his mission in Rome.

Biblical Cross-References

• Acts 23:11 – “Take courage! As you have testified about me in Jerusalem, so you must also testify in Rome.” Paul’s journey was directed by God, and nothing could stop it.
• Psalm 31:15 – “My times are in your hands.” Paul’s delay in Malta was not wasted time—it was part of God’s plan.
• Isaiah 40:31 – “But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength… they will walk and not be faint.” Waiting on God’s timing always leads to strength and renewal.
• Exodus 20:3-5 – “You shall have no other gods before me.” The mention of Castor and Pollux reminds us that only God is worthy of trust.
• Acts 27:22-25 – Paul had already seen God’s power in keeping him safe during the storm. This was a further testimony to God’s faithfulness.

What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian

1. Waiting is part of God’s plan. Sometimes we feel stuck, like Paul on Malta, waiting for the next step. But even delays are part of God’s plan, shaping us for what’s ahead.
2. Trust God, not worldly symbols. In our world, people trust in lucky charms, horoscopes, and superstitions. But as believers, we know that true protection comes from God alone.
3. God always provides a way forward. Paul could have been stranded, but God made sure he had a way to continue his mission. When we seek to follow God, He will provide what we need.
4. Faith in God should stand out. Imagine Paul boarding a ship covered in symbols of pagan gods. He did not share their faith, but his confidence was in the true God. Likewise, our faith should stand out in a world that trusts in false things.

How This Verse Relates to a Loving God

A loving God cares about every detail of our lives. Paul was not forgotten on Malta—God provided for him and ensured he had safe passage to Rome.

This also shows that God is patient with people who trust in false gods. The Romans trusted Castor and Pollux, but God still protected them on the journey. He gives people opportunities to see His power and turn to Him.

God’s love is also evident in how He allows delays for a reason. Paul’s extra time on Malta led to miracles, ministry, and many people hearing the gospel (Acts 28:8-10). Sometimes, delays in our lives are opportunities for God to work in ways we don’t expect.

How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ

1. Jesus is the true source of protection. Unlike Castor and Pollux, who were believed to protect sailors, Jesus is the one who truly saves and preserves us.
2. Jesus is Lord over the sea. In Mark 4:39, Jesus calmed the storm, proving that He, not false gods, has authority over nature.
3. Jesus endured suffering to fulfill God’s plan. Like Paul, Jesus faced hardship, opposition, and delays, yet He remained faithful to His mission.
4. Jesus provides the only true way to salvation. Just as God provided a ship for Paul to continue his journey, Jesus is the only way for us to reach eternal life (John 14:6).

Questions for Reflection and Discussion

1. Have you ever experienced a delay that later turned out to be part of God’s plan? How did it shape your faith?
2. Are there things in your life—like superstitions, luck, or human effort—that you sometimes trust instead of God?
3. How can you remain faithful and productive in seasons of waiting, just as Paul did in Malta?
4. What are some ways God has provided for you in unexpected circumstances?
5. How can you be a testimony to those around you who trust in worldly things instead of God?