Note: we have previously posted proposals for a six-fold division of Acts 27, with each section being chiastic. Further reflection suggests that these sections form an ABCC’B’A’. pattern.
A. vv 1-6 Centurion shows kindness to Paul.
B. vv 7-12 Loss of life and cargo anticipated by Paul but rejected by Centurion
C. vv 13-20 Driven by the wind
C’. vv 21-26 The angel of God in control
B’. vv 27-40 Promise that all would be saved if they stayed in the ship
A’. vv 41-44 Centurion saves the lives of all the prisoners because of Paul
In the first half the focus is on the dangers of the journey and the force of the storm. In the second half there is a contrast because Paul is told by the angel of the Lord that all will be saved in the ship.