Norwegian 2018 (Bibelen - Guds Ord Hverdagsbibelen (Hermon Forlag))
Paulus hadde også samlet en bunt med kvister som han ville legge på bålet. Da krøp en giftslange ut av kvistene på grunn av varmen, og den bet seg fast i hånden hans. Da innbyggerne så dyret som hang fast i hånden hans, sa de til hverandre: «Denne mannen er sikkert en morder. Selv om han ble reddet fra havet, så skal han visst likevel dø.» Men Paulus ristet bare dyret av seg inn i flammene og tok ingen skade av det.
What Does This Mean?
In this verse from the Book of Acts, Paul collects some sticks and makes a fire on the island of Malta. A viper appears from the heat and bites his hand. This event shows how God protects His people even in dangerous situations.
Explained for Children
Imagine you're camping and make a little campfire with some twigs. Then suddenly, a snake comes out of the warm ashes and bites your hand! That's what happened to Paul, but he didn't get hurt because God was watching over him. It’s like when mommy or daddy makes sure nothing bad happens to you.
Historical Background
The Book of Acts was written by Luke, one of Jesus' followers, around the year 60 AD. He wrote about the travels and adventures of Paul after his conversion. The audience included both Jews and Gentiles who were learning about Christianity. In this context, Paul's journey to Malta shows how God can use even dangerous situations for His purposes.
Living It Out Today
Today, we might relate to a situation where we're in a risky job or environment. Just like Paul wasn't harmed by the snake bite, we can trust that God will protect us and use our experiences to teach others about faith and resilience.
Topics
faithprotectionGod's providenceadventuretrials and tribulationsendurance
No, despite being bitten by the viper, Paul was not harmed. This demonstrates God’s protection and providence in even dangerous situations.
Why did a snake come out of the fire?
The heat drew the viper out of hiding. In this case, it symbolizes how difficulties can arise unexpectedly but are part of God's plan.
What was Paul doing on Malta at that time?
Paul and his companions were shipwrecked on Malta and were making a fire to warm themselves after their journey. This event shows the challenges they faced even in adversity.
How did others react when they saw the snake bite Paul?
The locals expected Paul to die from the venom, but when he was unharmed, it led them to believe that he might be a god or have divine protection.