Paul and the Viper on Malta
A venomous viper fastens on Paul's hand on Malta, but he shakes it into the fire and feels no harm.
After shipwreck on Malta the islanders kindled a fire for the survivors. As Paul laid a bundle of sticks on the flames, a viper came out of the heat and fastened on his hand.
God (through the apostle Paul)
The island of Melita (Malta)
What Happened
Key KJV Scriptures
Spiritual Significance
Paul's preservation fulfilled Christ's promise that nothing would by any means harm His messengers on the way to their appointed work. The sign opened the door to the gospel on Malta.
Lesson for Today
God preserves His servants for His purposes. No serpent or shipwreck can stop the gospel from reaching its destination.
Key People
Frequently Asked Questions
Was the snake actually venomous?
Luke (a physician) calls it a viper, and the locals expected swelling and sudden death — the natural symptoms of a venomous bite.
Why did the islanders think Paul was a god?
They first thought him a murderer pursued by 'vengeance.' When he was unharmed, they swung to the opposite extreme — a reminder that signs are not the same as saving faith.
Where in the Bible is the miracle of Paul and the Viper on Malta?
The miracle of Paul and the Viper on Malta is recorded in Acts 28:3 (KJV), with additional references in Acts 28:5.
Who performed the miracle of Paul and the Viper on Malta?
Scripture records that God (through the apostle Paul) carried out this miracle at The island of Melita (Malta). Ultimately the power belonged to God, who alone does wondrous things (Psalm 72:18).
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Peter Released from Prison by an Angel
An angel of the Lord wakes Peter in prison, opens chains and gates, and leads him to freedom.
Angels, Demons & Spiritual Warfare
Continue your study into the unseen battle Scripture describes:
Beelzebub — Prince of Devils
Beelzebub is a name for Satan as 'prince of devils,' which Jesus addressed when the Pharisees accused Him of casting out demons by demonic power.
Read moreFallen Angels
Fallen angels are heavenly beings who rebelled against God under Satan and now oppose His kingdom.
Read moreWhat Are Demons in the Bible?
Demons are fallen, evil spirits under Satan who oppose God and oppress people — but they are subject to Christ.
Read moreSatan, the Adversary
Satan is a created, fallen angel who accuses, tempts, and deceives — already defeated by Christ at the cross.
Read moreQuiz yourself on Bible miracles
Free KJV quizzes on Jesus' miracles and the supernatural acts of God in Scripture.
- Medium · 10 Qs
Paul's Miracles & Deliverances Bible Quiz
Blinding light, prison doors, and survival at sea.
Start quiz - Hard · 10 Qs
Publius Bible Quiz
The chief man of Melita who lodged Paul after the shipwreck.
Start quiz - Medium · 10 Qs
Paul the Apostle Quiz
From persecutor to preacher — the apostle to the Gentiles.
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Related Reading
Continue your study with related content from across our library:
Paul and the Viper on Malta
A venomous viper fastens on Paul's hand on Malta, but he shakes it into the fire
Fire on Mount Carmel
Elijah's prayer brought fire from heaven that consumed the sacrifice and the wat
Publius Bible Quiz
The chief man of Melita who lodged Paul after the shipwreck.
Malta in the Bible
Island where Paul was shipwrecked, bitten by a viper, and healed the sick.
The Shipwreck of Paul
Acts 27:1–28:10 • Faith in the Storm
Paul's Miracles & Deliverances Bible Quiz
Blinding light, prison doors, and survival at sea.