Albert Barnes Commentary Acts 27:43

"But the centurion, desiring to save Paul, stayed them from their purpose; and commanded that they who could swim should cast themselves overboard, and get first to the land;" — Acts 27:43 (ASV)

But the centurion, willing to save Paul. He had at first been disposed to treat Paul with kindness (Acts 27:3). And his conduct on board the ship; the wisdom of his advice (Acts 27:10); the prudence of his conduct in the agitation and danger of the tempest; and, not improbably, the belief that Paul was under Divine protection and blessing, disposed the centurion to spare Paul's life.

Kept them from their purpose. Thus, for the sake of this one righteous man, the lives of all were spared. The instance here shows:

1. That it is possible for a pious man, like Paul, so to conduct himself in the various trying scenes of life—the agitations, difficulties, and temptations of this world—as to conciliate the favor of the men of this world; and,
2. That important benefits often result to sinners from the righteous. Paul's being on board was the means of saving the lives of many prisoners; and God often confers important blessings on the wicked for the sake of the pious relatives, friends, and neighbors with whom they are connected. Ten righteous men would have saved Sodom (Genesis 18:32); and Christians are in more ways than one the salt of the earth, and light of the world (Matthew 5:13–14).

It is a privilege to be related to the friends of God—to be the children of pious parents, or to be connected with pious partners in life. It is a privilege to be connected with the friends of God in business, or to dwell near them, or to be associated with them in the various walks and dangers of life.

The streams of blessings which flow to fertilize their lands also flow to bless others; the dews of heaven which descend on their habitations descend on all around; and the God who crowns them with loving-kindness often fills the abodes of their neighbors and friends with the blessings of peace and salvation.

And commanded. Probably they were released from their chains.