ACTS 27:13–26
THE STORM AT SEA AND PAUL’S WORD OF HOPE
Text – Acts 27:13–26
13 When a gentle south wind began to blow, they thought they had achieved their purpose; so they weighed anchor and sailed along Crete, close inshore.
14 But before long a violent wind, called the northeaster, rushed down from Crete.
15 Once the ship was caught up and could not face into the wind, we gave way and were driven along.
16 We ran under the lee of a small island called Cauda, and managed with difficulty to secure the ship’s boat.
17 They hoisted it on board, then used ropes to undergird the ship; fearing that they would run aground on the Syrtis, they lowered the sea anchor and so were driven along.
18 We were being pounded by the storm so violently that on the next day they jettisoned some cargo,
19 and on the third day they threw even the ship’s tackle overboard with their own hands.
20 Neither sun nor stars appeared for many days, and no small storm continued to batter us. Finally all hope of our being saved was abandoned.
21 When many had gone without food, Paul stood up among them and said, “Men, you should have listened to me and not have set sail from Crete and thereby avoided this damage and loss.
22 I urge you now to keep up your courage, for there will be no loss of life among you, but only of the ship.
23 For last night an angel of the God to whom I belong and whom I serve stood by me
24 and said, ‘Do not be afraid, Paul; you must stand before Caesar. And behold, God has granted you the lives of all who sail with you.’
25 Therefore, keep up your courage, men; I trust in God that it will turn out exactly as I have been told.
26 But we will have to run aground on some island.”
Historical and Jewish Context
The northeaster (Euraquilo) was a feared Mediterranean storm, especially deadly during winter sailing months. Ancient ships lacked modern navigation and relied heavily on stars for orientation; their disappearance signaled complete disorientation. Undergirding the ship with ropes was a common emergency measure. In biblical tradition, the sea often symbolizes chaos and danger. Angelic reassurance follows a familiar biblical pattern, echoing God’s guidance to prophets in moments of crisis.
Catholic Theological Perspective
This passage reveals Paul as a calm and faith-filled leader amid despair. Though a prisoner, he becomes a shepherd to all aboard. Hope is grounded not in circumstances but in God’s promise. Paul’s confidence flows from his relationship with God and obedience to his mission. God’s care extends beyond Paul to all those traveling with him, illustrating how the faith of one righteous person can bring blessing and protection to many.
Parallels in Scripture
Psalm 46:2–3 – God present amid chaos
Jonah 1:4–16 – Storm and divine purpose
Matthew 8:23–27 – Jesus calms the storm
Acts 23:11 – Promise of witness in Rome
Isaiah 43:2 – Passing through waters unharmed
Key Terms
Northeaster – Violent trial
All hope abandoned – Human despair
Angel of the Lord – Divine reassurance
Do not be afraid – God’s promise
I trust in God – Faith-filled surrender
No loss of life – Saving mercy
Catholic Liturgical Significance
Acts 27:13–26 is proclaimed during the Easter Season, encouraging trust in God’s promises and courage in the midst of life’s storms.
Conclusion
Acts 27:13–26 shows that when human strength fails, God’s word sustains hope. In the heart of the storm, Paul proclaims faith, courage, and trust in God’s unfailing promise, guiding all safely toward God’s purpose.
Reflection
Where do I place my hope when life’s storms arise?
Do I allow faith to shape my response to fear and uncertainty?
How can my trust in God become a source of hope for others?
Prayer
Faithful God, when the storms of life surround me, speak Your word of peace to my heart. Strengthen my trust in You, calm my fears, and help me to be a bearer of hope to those who journey with me. Amen.