Visit to Publius. The chief man of the island is in the Gr. the first man, an official title, found on inscriptions in Malta (p. 614). The cure of his father by Paul is effected by prayer and imposition of hands (cf. Acts 9:12; Acts 9:17). Paul believed in his own power to do such things (2 Corinthians 12:12), and in the gift of healing given to other believers (1 Corinthians 12:9); see also James 5:14. It is not necessary to suppose that there was a physician in the party.
Related Commentaries of Acts 28:7
Acts 28:7-10
7 In the same quarters were possessions of the chief man of the island, whose name was Publius; who received us, and lodged us three days courteously.
8 And it came to pass, that the father of Publius lay sick of a fever and of a bloody flux: to whom Paul entered in, and prayed, and laid his hands on him, and healed him.
9 So when this was done, others also, which had diseases in the island, came, and were healed:
10 Who also honoured us with many honours; and when we departed, they laded us with such things as were necessary.