27:1 And {1} when it was determined that we should sail into Italy, they delivered Paul and certain other prisoners unto [one] named Julius, a centurion of Augustus' band.
(1) Paul, with many other prisoners and through the midst of many deaths, is brought to Rome, but yet by God's own hand as it were, and set forth and commended to the world with many singular testimonies.
27:1 The Sea Voyage to Rome
SUMMARY OF ACTS 27:
The Centurion in Charge of Paul Embarks with Him for Rome. At Myra Take an Alexandrian Corn Ship. The Weather Tempestuous. Paul Advises the Centurion to Go into Harbor for the Winter. Caught by the Euroclydon and Driven. After Fourteen Days of Drifting, Paul Assures Them That All Will. Escape. The Ship Runs Ashore on the Island of Malta and Is Destroyed. The Men All Saved.
When it was determined. When all was settled that Paul should go to Italy, and the time appointed had come.
Delivered Paul and certain other prisoners. No information is given concerning these companions in bonds.
Julius, a centurion. All we learn of this Roman officer is favorable. It is remarkable how uniformly Paul commanded the respect of the Roman officials with whom he came in contact. Sergius Paulus (Ac 13:7-12), Gallio (Ac 18:12-17), Felix (Ac 24:22,23), Festus (Ac 25:12-14), and Julius are examples of this.
Of Augustus' band. Rather, cohort. Josephus says that this period one of the cohorts stationed at Caesarea took the name of Augustus ( Wars, 2:12,7 and 2:12,5).
27:1 As soon as it was determined to sail - As being a shorter and less expensive passage to Rome.
27:1-11 It was determined by the counsel of God, before it was determined by the counsel of Festus, that Paul should go to Rome; for God had work for him to do there. The course they steered, and the places they touched at, are here set down. And God here encourages those who suffer for him, to trust in him; for he can put it into the hearts of those to befriend them, from whom they least expect it. Sailors must make the best of the wind: and so must we all in our passage over the ocean of this world. When the winds are contrary, yet we must be getting forward as well as we can. Many who are not driven backward by cross providences, do not get forward by favourable providences. And many real Christians complain as to the concerns of their souls, that they have much ado to keep their ground. Every fair haven is not a safe haven. Many show respect to good ministers, who will not take their advice. But the event will convince sinners of the vanity of their hopes, and the folly of their conduct.
