Acts 27: Group Study Handout

Overview

Paul and certain prisoners are delivered to a centurion named Julius for their journey to Italy (vv. 1-3). They encounter challenging conditions while sailing under Cyprus and arrive at Myra (vv. 4-6). Paul warns the crew that continuing the voyage would lead to injury and loss, but his warning is ignored (vv. 9-12). They set sail, but a storm called Euroclydon strikes, and they are driven along helplessly (vv. 13-20). After days without food, Paul encourages them, stating an angel assured him they would all be safe (vv. 21-26). As they navigate dangerously, they drop anchors and try to assess their situation (vv. 27-38). Finally, they run aground near a bay, and despite plans to kill the prisoners, Julius saves Paul, allowing all to reach land safely (vv. 39-44).

Key verse

“For there stood by me this night an angel, belonging to the God whose I am and whom I serve, saying, ‘Don’t be afraid, Paul. You must stand before Caesar. Behold, God has granted you all those who sail with you.’

Acts 27:23-24 (WEB)

Outline

1. Acts 27:1–3 Departure for Italy
2. Acts 27:4–8 Challenging Conditions
3. Acts 27:9–12 Paul's Warning Ignored
4. Acts 27:13–20 The Storm Strikes
5. Acts 27:21–26 Paul's Encouragement
6. Acts 27:27–38 Navigating Dangerously
7. Acts 27:39–44 Safe Arrival

Discussion questions

1. In v13, what do the sailors assume when the south wind blows softly?
2. What does Paul say in v10 about the potential outcome of the voyage?
3. Paul's warning in vv. 9-10: why does the centurion ignore Paul and heed others?
4. In v24, what does the angel's message indicate about God's plan for Paul?
5. When has a time of turmoil in your life led you to encourage others, as Paul does in v22?

Go deeper

Passages that echo Acts 27: Acts 28, John 16, Acts 23.

Before next time: read Acts 28.