In Acts 28:3-10, as Paul gathers firewood and a viper bites him, those around expect him to swell up and die. Instead, he shakes the snake off into the fire and suffers no harm. This miraculous event not only demonstrates Paul’s personal protection but also serves as a profound testament to the enduring and protective power of true salvation.

Immunity Through Faith

1. Divine Protection in Action: The snake bite incident is a literal demonstration of the promise in Mark 16:18, where believers are told they will pick up snakes with their hands and not be harmed. This event shows that true salvation involves divine protection, which can manifest in literal physical immunity from harm.
2. Expectations vs. Reality: The expectation of the onlookers that Paul would die contrasts sharply with the reality of God’s power in his life. This moment highlights how God’s ways often defy human expectations and logic, showcasing His sovereignty and the supernatural aspect of salvation.
3. Testimony to the Unbelievers: Paul’s survival acts as a powerful witness to the natives and others present. It is a vivid demonstration that the message he carries and the God he serves are real and powerful. Such undeniable evidence of divine power often leads to opportunities for witnessing and conversion, as seen by the subsequent events where Paul heals many on the island.

The Broader Implications of Divine Protection

Paul’s experience on Malta not only confirms the protective aspect of salvation but also symbolically represents how believers are equipped to handle the ‘vipers’ of life—be it trials, challenges, or opposition—without being defeated by them.

Conclusion and Prayer

Acts 28:3-10 reinforces that true salvation cannot be silenced. It speaks through protection, miracles, and the undeniable presence of God in the lives of believers. As Paul was unharmed by the viper, so are we upheld and sustained by divine power, able to face the dangers and challenges of life with confidence.

Dear Lord, we are grateful for Your protective hand in our lives. Thank you for the shield of Your salvation, which not only guards us but also serves as a testament to Your power and grace. Help us to live unshaken by the trials we encounter, manifesting Your strength and sovereignty in every challenge. Amen.