New Testament
Acts 27:19
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In this passage, we see a moment of desperation during a storm at sea.
- Author
- Luke the physician
- Written
- Around AD 62
- Genre
- Historical narrative
- Original Audience
- Gentile Christians (addressed to Theophilus)
On the third day, we threw the ship's equipment overboard with our own hands.
And the third day we cast out with our own hands the tackling of the ship.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this passage, we see a moment of desperation during a storm at sea. The crew, facing overwhelming challenges, decided to lighten the ship by throwing its equipment overboard. This act was not just a practical decision; it was a sign of their struggle against the storm's fury. By the third day, hope was dwindling, and they realized that they needed to take drastic measures to survive. The act of throwing the equipment overboard symbolizes letting go of what is no longer useful in dire situations. It reflects a willingness to sacrifice for the sake of safety and survival. This moment highlights the importance of making tough choices when faced with adversity. Sometimes, we must release our burdens to navigate through life's storms effectively. The crew's actions remind us that in times of crisis, we may need to reevaluate our priorities and make sacrifices for our well-being and the well-being of others. Their determination to survive is a powerful lesson in resilience and adaptability.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Acts 27:19 to your life
When facing overwhelming challenges, consider what burdens you can let go of to lighten your load. Sometimes, making tough choices is necessary for your well-being. Reflect on what is truly essential in your life and be willing to release the rest to navigate through difficulties more effectively. Embrace resilience in tough times by prioritizing your safety and peace of mind. In doing so, you can find strength to move forward.
Curated for this public verse page. Acts Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Acts 27:19 mean?
Acts 27:19 describes a desperate situation where the ship's crew, facing a severe storm, decided to throw their equipment overboard to lighten the ship. This act symbolizes their struggle for survival and the tough choices they had to make in a crisis.
What is the significance of throwing equipment overboard in Acts 27:19?
Throwing equipment overboard in Acts 27:19 signifies the crew's willingness to sacrifice non-essential items for their survival. It highlights the importance of letting go of burdens that hinder progress during difficult times.
How does Acts 27:19 relate to resilience?
Acts 27:19 illustrates resilience by showing how the crew adapted to their dire circumstances. Their decision to discard equipment demonstrates the need to prioritize survival and make difficult choices when faced with overwhelming challenges.
What lessons can we learn from Acts 27:19?
From Acts 27:19, we learn the importance of evaluating what is essential in our lives during tough times. It teaches us that sometimes we must let go of certain burdens to navigate challenges effectively and ensure our well-being.

The Book of Acts
Acts 1: The Ascension and the Choosing of Matthias
Jesus shows himself alive to the apostles after his suffering, speaking about the kingdom of God. He commands them not to leave Jerusalem but to wait for the promise of the Father, saying they will be baptized with the Holy Ghost soon. They ask if he will restore the kingdom to Israel, and he tells them it is not for them to know the times, but they will receive power when the Holy Ghost comes upon them and will be witnesses in Jerusalem, Judaea, Samaria, and to the ends of the earth. As they watch, he is taken up, and a cloud receives him out of their sight. Two men in white apparel tell them that this same Jesus will return in the same way they have seen him go.
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