Acts 28:5 – “But Paul shook the snake off into the fire and suffered no ill effects.”
Extended Explanation of the Verse
Paul had just been bitten by a viper while helping to gather wood for a fire. The snake had latched onto his hand, and the local islanders assumed this was divine judgment, believing he must have been a criminal who had escaped the sea but could not escape punishment.
However, instead of panicking, Paul simply shook the snake off into the fire and went on as if nothing had happened. He suffered no swelling, no pain, and no poison-related symptoms. The people of Malta expected him to fall dead at any moment, but when they saw he was unharmed, their opinion of him changed dramatically (Acts 28:6).
This moment was not just about Paul’s physical survival; it was a powerful testimony of God’s protection. Paul’s calm response demonstrated unshakable faith in God’s plan. This miracle also opened the door for ministry among the people of Malta, leading to more opportunities for Paul to share the gospel.
Historical Context
At the time of Paul’s shipwreck, Malta was under Roman rule, but its native people followed a mix of local and Greek religious beliefs. Their reaction to Paul’s snakebite shows their belief in divine justice—thinking he must have been a murderer who was finally receiving his punishment.
Snakebites were often deadly in the ancient world, as medical treatments were limited. Many people saw such events as omens or messages from the gods. In Greek mythology, the goddess Justice (Dikē) was believed to ensure that evildoers eventually received their due punishment. The islanders interpreted the snakebite as this kind of divine judgment.
However, Paul did not react in fear or superstition. He had already survived shipwreck, beatings, and imprisonments, and he knew that his life was in God’s hands. Paul had been promised by God that he would make it to Rome (Acts 23:11), so he had full confidence that nothing—not storms, soldiers, or snakes—could stop God’s plan for him.
Theological Implications
This verse demonstrates God’s sovereign protection. Paul was bitten by a venomous snake, yet he was completely unharmed. This was not just a fortunate coincidence—it was divine intervention.
It also teaches an important lesson about faith in the face of adversity. Paul’s immediate response was not fear, but faith. He didn’t panic, he didn’t cry out, and he didn’t seek medical attention—he simply shook the snake off. His trust in God was so strong that he continued his work without hesitation.
Some people connect this moment with Mark 16:17-18, where Jesus says that His followers will “pick up snakes with their hands” and not be harmed. While this does not mean believers should deliberately handle snakes to test God, it does show that God has the power to protect His people in dangerous situations when they are following His will.
Literary Analysis
This verse is written in a straightforward, matter-of-fact way, emphasizing Paul’s complete lack of fear or hesitation. The phrase “shook the snake off” shows his calm and decisive action. The lack of dramatic detail highlights how unbothered Paul was—what seemed like a crisis to the islanders was nothing to him because he trusted God.
The contrast between the islanders’ expectation (that Paul would die) and the reality (that he was unharmed) builds suspense in the narrative. This sudden reversal of expectations is a common literary device in the Bible, reinforcing the theme of God’s unexpected deliverance.
Biblical Cross-References
- Mark 16:17-18 – Jesus said that His followers would handle snakes and not be harmed. Paul’s experience may be an example of this promise in action.
- Luke 10:19 – “I have given you authority to trample on snakes and scorpions and to overcome all the power of the enemy; nothing will harm you.”
- Psalm 91:13 – “You will tread on the lion and the cobra; you will trample the great lion and the serpent.”
- Acts 23:11 – The Lord had assured Paul that he would testify in Rome. This snakebite could not stop God’s plan.
- 2 Corinthians 4:8-9 – Paul wrote that he was “hard pressed on every side, but not crushed… struck down, but not destroyed,” showing that God always preserved him.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
This verse is a reminder that God is in control of all circumstances. No matter what attacks come against us—whether physical, spiritual, or emotional—God’s power is greater.
Paul’s response also teaches us how to handle challenges. Instead of giving in to fear, he literally “shook off” the attack and continued his work. This is a model for believers today: when the enemy tries to harm us or distract us, we should shake off the fear and keep trusting in God’s plan.
It also shows that miracles still happen. Paul’s survival was a visible sign of God’s power. While not every believer will experience this exact kind of supernatural protection, we can trust that God watches over His people and works in ways beyond human understanding.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
A loving God does not leave His children defenseless. Paul had already been through so many dangers, yet God continued to protect him. This shows that God’s love includes His protection, especially when we are walking in obedience to Him.
At the same time, God’s love is not just about physical safety. While He protected Paul in this moment, the greater expression of His love was in using Paul’s trials to spread the gospel. Paul’s survival was not just for his own benefit—it became a testimony that led to ministry among the people of Malta (Acts 28:7-10).
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
Paul’s experience reflects Jesus’ victory over the enemy. Throughout the Bible, snakes are often symbols of sin, deception, and Satan himself (Genesis 3:1, Revelation 12:9). By shaking off the snake into the fire, Paul demonstrated in a small way what Jesus accomplished in a much greater way—He crushed the power of the serpent (Genesis 3:15).
- Genesis 3:15 – God promised that the offspring of the woman (Jesus) would crush the serpent’s head. Paul’s encounter with the snake can be seen as a foreshadowing of this victory.
- Colossians 2:15 – Jesus “disarmed the powers and authorities” and triumphed over them through the cross, just as Paul’s survival demonstrated victory over evil forces.
- Romans 8:37 – “In all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us.” Paul’s survival is a living example of this promise.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- Have you ever faced a situation that seemed dangerous or overwhelming, yet God brought you through it unharmed?
- How do you typically respond to challenges? Do you react with fear, or do you “shake it off” and trust in God?
- What does this passage teach us about faith in God’s protection?
- Are there “snakes” in your life—trials, temptations, or attacks—that you need to shake off?
- How can this story encourage you to stay focused on God’s mission despite obstacles?