Acts 27:16
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Acts 27:16
16 And running under a certain island which is called Clauda, we had much work to come by the boat:
Chapter Context
Acts 27 is a historical narrative chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of righteousness, judgment, obedience. Written during the late first century CE (c. 80-85 CE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Chronicles Christianity's spread across the Roman Empire despite official and unofficial opposition.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-44: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it demonstrates God's faithfulness despite human unfaithfulness. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Acts and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Acts 27:16
16 And running under a certain island which is called Clauda, we had much work to come by the boat:
Analysis
Running under a certain island which is called Clauda—The small island (modern Gavdos) 23 miles south of Crete provided brief shelter (its lee side). We had much work to come by the boat (μόλις ἰσχύσαμεν περικρατεῖς γενέσθαι τῆς σκάφης, molis ischysamen perikrateis genesthai tēs skaphēs)—'with difficulty we got control of the ship's boat.' The skiff, normally towed behind, was waterlogged and nearly lost. Securing it required all hands in violent seas. This detail shows Luke's eyewitness accuracy—an invented story wouldn't include such mundane nautical crisis. The preserved boat later saved all 276 lives (27:30-32, 44), showing God's providence in small mercies during great trials.
Historical Context
Clauda (or Cauda) is a small island about 7.5 miles long, 23 miles south of Crete. Its eastern side provided temporary lee shelter from the northeaster. The ship's boat (skiff) was essential for ferrying people and supplies to shore, and later for the crew's attempted escape (27:30). Losing it would have been catastrophic.
Reflection
- How has God preserved seemingly small resources during your 'storms' that later proved essential?
- What does the crew's desperate struggle to secure the boat teach about practical faithfulness during crisis?