After Paul was seized by the mob in Jerusalem, he was taken into Roman custody. And because a Jewish plot to take his life was discovered, the Romans transferred him to Caesarea. While there, Paul had the opportunity to defend himself before governors Felix and Festus. And it was before Festus that Paul made his famous appeal to be taken before Caesar saying: “1 stand at Caesars judgment seat, where I ought to be judged. To the Jews I have done no wrong, as you very well know. For ifl am an offender, or have committed anything deserving of death, I do not object to dying; but if there is nothing in these things of which these men accuse me, no one can deliver me to them. I appeal to Caesar (Acts 25:10-11).
After assuring Paul that his request would be granted, Festus made provisions for him to be taken by ship to Rome. But that voyage, like most of Paul’s other experiences, was not to be without incident. In the midst of the long journey, a storm, so severe that “sailors were seeking to escape from the ship” (Acts 27:30), encompassed the vessel. Nevertheless, an angel assured Paul that he and all those present on the voyage would survive the impending wreck. Thus, Paul spoke: “Therefore take heart, men, for believe God that it will be just as it was told me” (Acts 27:25).
Paul’s words reflect the confidence that all Christians should have in God’s Word. He knew that if God had promised his safety, he would be safe indeed. No wonder Paul later wrote: “…I know whom I have believed and am persuaded that He is able to keep what I have committed to Him until that Day” (2 Timothy 1:12).