Lexical Summary kolumbaó: To dive, to swim Original Word: κολυμβάω Strong's Exhaustive Concordance swim. From kolumbos (a diver); to plunge into water -- swim. NAS Exhaustive Concordance Word Originfrom kolumbos (a diver) Definition to plunge into the sea NASB Translation swim (1). Thayer's Greek Lexicon STRONGS NT 2860: κολυμβάωκολυμβάω, κολυμβω; to dive, to swim: Acts 27:43. (Plato, Prot., p. 350 a.; Lach., p. 193 c., and in later writings) (Compare: ἐκκολυμβάω.) Topical Lexicon Usage in Scripture The verb appears once in the New Testament, in the account of Paul’s shipwreck off Malta: “He ordered those who could swim to jump overboard first and get to land” (Acts 27:43). Here the ability to swim becomes the first step in God’s providential preservation of every life on board, fulfilling the promise given earlier through Paul (Acts 27:22). Historical and Cultural Context Maritime travel on the Mediterranean was perilous. Ancient historians note that many sailors and virtually all soldiers were non-swimmers; a single storm could mean certain death. Luke’s record shows the Roman centurion acting pragmatically by distinguishing between those “able to swim” and those dependent on floating debris (Acts 27:44). The detail underscores Luke’s accuracy as an historian and heightens the drama of divine deliverance when every life is spared. Theological Implications in Acts 27 1. Divine Sovereignty and Human Means – God had promised safety, yet natural abilities (swimming) and practical measures (planks and pieces of the ship) are employed. Scripture consistently pairs God’s sovereign purpose with human responsibility (compare Nehemiah 4:9; Philippians 2:12-13). Connections with Old Testament Motifs • Psalm 124:4-5 portrays overwhelming waters as mortal danger from which the Lord delivers. These texts frame swimming or survival at sea as emblematic of God’s saving power. Practical Ministry Applications • Encouragement in Crisis – Like the soldiers who trusted the centurion’s command, believers are called to act on God’s promises while employing available means. Church History and Patristic Reflection Chrysostom noted that Luke’s mention of swimming reveals both the desperation of the moment and God’s meticulous care. Augustine viewed the planks of Acts 27:44 as a figure of the cross that bears sinners safely to shore. Medieval commentators used the scene to illustrate baptismal imagery—believers emerge from chaotic waters into the order of God’s kingdom. Illustrative Sermon Themes • “Swimming in the Sovereignty of God” – balancing divine promise and human action. Recommended Cross-References 2 Corinthians 11:25; Mark 6:48; Isaiah 43:2; Psalm 124:4-5; Jonah 2:3; 1 Peter 3:20-21. Forms and Transliterations κολυμβαν κολυμβάν κολυμβᾷν κολυμβᾶν kolumban kolymbā̂in kolymbanLinks Interlinear Greek • Interlinear Hebrew • Strong's Numbers • Englishman's Greek Concordance • Englishman's Hebrew Concordance • Parallel Texts |