Acts 23:21

Do not let them persuade you, because more than forty men are waiting to ambush him. They have bound themselves with an oath not to eat or drink until they have killed him; they are ready now, awaiting your consent."

Study Bible

Do not let them persuade you
This phrase is a direct warning, emphasizing the need for discernment and vigilance. The Greek word for "persuade" is "peithō," which implies being convinced or won over. In the context of Acts, this is a call to resist manipulation and deceit. Historically, the early church faced numerous threats, both internal and external, and this serves as a reminder to remain steadfast in truth and righteousness, relying on the Holy Spirit for guidance.

because more than forty of them
The mention of "more than forty" highlights the seriousness and scale of the conspiracy against Paul. In Jewish tradition, the number forty often symbolizes a period of testing or trial, as seen in the forty years of wilderness wandering. This underscores the intensity of the opposition Paul faced, reflecting the broader spiritual warfare against the spread of the Gospel.

are waiting in ambush for him
The imagery of an "ambush" conveys a sense of imminent danger and treachery. The Greek term "enedra" suggests a hidden or secretive attack. This reflects the reality of spiritual and physical threats faced by early Christians. It serves as a metaphor for the unseen spiritual battles believers encounter, reminding us of the need for spiritual armor as described in Ephesians 6:10-18.

They have bound themselves with an oath
The act of taking an "oath" in this context is a solemn vow, indicating the conspirators' extreme commitment. The Greek word "anathematizō" implies a curse upon oneself if the vow is not fulfilled. This reflects the depth of their fanaticism and the lengths to which opponents of the Gospel would go. It serves as a stark contrast to the Christian call to let our "yes" be "yes" and our "no" be "no" (Matthew 5:37).

not to eat or drink until they have killed him
This phrase illustrates the intensity of the conspirators' resolve. Fasting, in Jewish culture, was typically a spiritual discipline, but here it is perverted for evil purposes. This highlights the distortion of religious practices when divorced from true faith and righteousness. It serves as a caution against allowing zeal to overshadow the love and truth of the Gospel.

They are ready now
The immediacy of "ready now" indicates the urgency and preparedness of the conspirators. The Greek word "etoimos" suggests being fully prepared and equipped. This reflects the constant readiness required of believers to face spiritual challenges, echoing the call to be watchful and prayerful in anticipation of Christ's return (Matthew 24:42).

awaiting your consent
The phrase "awaiting your consent" underscores the role of human authority and decision-making in the unfolding of events. The Greek word "suntithēmi" implies agreement or approval. This highlights the responsibility of leaders to act justly and wisely, recognizing the impact of their decisions on the lives of others. It serves as a reminder of the importance of seeking God's will in all matters, trusting in His sovereignty and justice.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Paul
- The apostle who is the target of the assassination plot. He is a central figure in the early Christian church and a prolific writer of the New Testament.

2. The Forty Conspirators
- A group of more than forty Jewish men who have taken an oath to kill Paul. Their plot demonstrates the intense opposition Paul faced from some Jewish leaders.

3. The Roman Commander (Claudius Lysias)
- The Roman official responsible for Paul's safety. He is informed of the plot and takes action to protect Paul.

4. Paul's Nephew
- The young man who discovers the plot against Paul and informs the Roman commander, playing a crucial role in thwarting the assassination attempt.

5. Jerusalem
- The city where these events take place, a significant location for both Jewish and early Christian history.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty and Protection
Despite human schemes, God's plans prevail. The plot against Paul is thwarted, demonstrating God's sovereign protection over His servants.

The Importance of Courage and Action
Paul's nephew shows courage by taking action to inform the authorities. Believers are called to act courageously in the face of evil.

The Role of Divine Providence
God uses ordinary people and circumstances to accomplish His purposes. Paul's nephew's timely intervention is a reminder of how God works through individuals.

Faithfulness in Adversity
Paul remains faithful despite constant threats. Believers are encouraged to remain steadfast in their faith, trusting in God's protection.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the plot against Paul in Acts 23:21 demonstrate the challenges faced by early Christians, and how can this encourage us in our own faith journey?

2. In what ways does the courage of Paul's nephew inspire us to take action when we see injustice or wrongdoing?

3. How can we see God's providence at work in our own lives, similar to how He protected Paul from the assassination plot?

4. What other biblical examples can you think of where God used unexpected people or circumstances to fulfill His purposes?

5. How can we apply the lessons of faithfulness and trust in God's protection from Acts 23:21 to our current life situations?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Acts 9:23-25
This passage describes an earlier plot to kill Paul, highlighting the recurring danger he faced and God's providential protection over his life.

2 Corinthians 11:26
Paul recounts the various dangers he has faced, including threats from his own people, which aligns with the plot described in Acts 23:21.

Psalm 37:32-33
This Psalm speaks of the wicked plotting against the righteous, but the Lord will not leave them in their power, reflecting God's protection over Paul.