King James Version

What Does Acts 28:10 Mean?

Acts 28:10 in the King James Version says “Who also honoured us with many honours; and when we departed, they laded us with such things as were necessary. — study this verse from Acts chapter 28 with commentary, cross-references, and original Greek word analysis.

Who also honoured us with many honours; and when we departed, they laded us with such things as were necessary.

Acts 28:10 · KJV


Context

8

And it came to pass, that the father of Publius lay sick of a fever and of a bloody flux: to whom Paul entered in, and prayed, and laid his hands on him, and healed him.

9

So when this was done, others also, which had diseases in the island, came, and were healed:

10

Who also honoured us with many honours; and when we departed, they laded us with such things as were necessary.

11

And after three months we departed in a ship of Alexandria, which had wintered in the isle, whose sign was Castor and Pollux.

12

And landing at Syracuse, we tarried there three days.


Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
Who also honoured us with many honours (πολλαῖς τιμαῖς ἐτίμησαν)—emphatic repetition of 'honor' (timai) emphasizes extraordinary gratitude. These weren't mere words but tangible gifts and respect for healing ministry. And when we departed, they laded us with such things as were necessary (τὰ πρὸς τὴν χρείαν)—provisions for continuing the journey to Rome. The Maltese supplied a prisoner and his companions with resources, showing how Paul's faithful service reaped practical blessing. This reciprocal generosity demonstrates kingdom economics: those who minister without charge receive voluntary support (1 Corinthians 9:11-14). Paul's refusal to exploit his power for personal gain resulted in overwhelming generosity freely given.

KJV Study — Public Domain

Historical & Cultural Context

Shipwreck survivors typically lost all possessions. The Maltese provision of 'necessary things' likely included food, clothing, and funds for the remainder of Paul's journey. Such generosity toward a prisoner would have been remarkable, reflecting the profound impact of Paul's ministry during the three-month stay.

Reflection Questions

  1. How does serving without expectation of return often result in greater blessing?
  2. What 'necessary things' has God provided through unexpected sources in your journey?

Original Language Analysis

Greek · 13 words
οἳ1 of 13

Who

G3739

the relatively (sometimes demonstrative) pronoun, who, which, what, that

καὶ2 of 13

also

G2532

and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words

πολλαῖς3 of 13

with many

G4183

(singular) much (in any respect) or (plural) many; neuter (singular) as adverbial, largely; neuter (plural) as adverb or noun often, mostly, largely

τιμαῖς4 of 13

honoured

G5092

a value, i.e., money paid, or (concretely and collectively) valuables; by analogy, esteem (especially of the highest degree), or the dignity itself

ἐτίμησαν5 of 13

honours

G5091

to prize, i.e., fix a valuation upon; by implication, to revere

ἡμᾶς6 of 13

us

G2248

us

καὶ7 of 13

also

G2532

and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words

ἀναγομένοις8 of 13

when we departed

G321

to lead up; by extension to bring out; specially, to sail away

ἐπέθεντο9 of 13

they laded

G2007

to impose (in a friendly or hostile sense)

τὰ10 of 13
G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

πρὸς11 of 13

us with such things as

G4314

a preposition of direction; forward to, i.e., toward (with the genitive case, the side of, i.e., pertaining to; with the dative case, by the side of,

τὴν12 of 13
G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

χρείαν13 of 13

were necessary

G5532

employment, i.e., an affair; also (by implication) occasion, demand, requirement or destitution


Study Guide

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of Acts. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

Acts 28:10 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

Cross-References

Verses related to Acts 28:10 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

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