◄ Acts 21 ►
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Paul’s Journey to Jerusalem 1After we had torn ourselves away from them, we sailed directly to Cos, and the next day on to Rhodes, and from there to Patara. 2Finding a ship crossing over to Phoenicia, we boarded it and set sail. 3After sighting Cyprus and passing south of it, we sailed on to Syria and landed at Tyre, where the ship was to unload its cargo. 4We sought out the disciples in Tyre and stayed with them seven days. Through the Spirit they kept telling Paul not to go up to Jerusalem. 5But when our time there had ended, we set out on our journey. All the disciples, with their wives and children, accompanied us out of the city and knelt down on the beach to pray with us. 6And after we had said our farewells, we went aboard the ship, and they returned home. 7When we had finished our voyage from Tyre, we landed at Ptolemais, where we greeted the brothers and stayed with them for a day. Paul Visits Philip the Evangelist 8Leaving the next day, we went on to Caesarea and stayed at the home of Philip the evangelist, who was one of the Seven.a 9He had four unmarried daughters who prophesied. 10After we had been there several days, a prophet named Agabus came down from Judea. 11Coming over to us, he took Paul’s belt, bound his own feet and hands, and said, “The Holy Spirit says: ‘In this way the Jews of Jerusalem will bind the owner of this belt and hand him over to the Gentiles.’” 12When we heard this, we and the people there pleaded with Paul not to go up to Jerusalem. 13Then Paul answered, “Why are you weeping and breaking my heart? I am ready not only to be bound, but also to die in Jerusalem for the name of the Lord Jesus.” 14When he would not be dissuaded, we quieted down and said, “The Lord’s will be done.” 15After these days, we packed up and went on to Jerusalem. 16Some of the disciples from Caesarea accompanied us, and they took us to stay at the home of Mnason the Cypriot, an early disciple. Paul’s Arrival at Jerusalem 17When we arrived in Jerusalem, the brothers welcomed us joyfully. 18The next day Paul went in with us to see James, and all the elders were present. 19Paul greeted them and recounted one by one the things that God had done among the Gentiles through his ministry. 20When they heard this, they glorified God. Then they said to Paul, “You see, brother, how many thousands of Jews have believed, and all of them are zealous for the law. 21But they are under the impression that you teach all the Jews who live among the Gentiles to forsake Moses, telling them not to circumcise their children or observe our customs. 22What then should we do? They will certainly hear that you have come. 23Therefore do what we advise you. There are four men with us who have taken a vow. 24Take these men, purify yourself along with them, and pay their expenses so they can have their heads shaved. Then everyone will know that there is no truth to these rumors about you, but that you also live in obedience to the law. 25As for the Gentile believers, we have written to them our decision that they must abstain from food sacrificed to idols, from blood, from the meat of strangled animals, and from sexual immorality.” 26So the next day Paul took the men and purified himself along with them. Then he entered the temple to give notice of the date when their purification would be complete and the offering would be made for each of them. Paul Seized at the Temple 27When the seven days were almost over, some Jews from the province of Asiab saw Paul at the temple. They stirred up the whole crowd and seized him, 28crying out, “Men of Israel, help us! This is the man who teaches everyone everywhere against our people and against our law and against this place. Furthermore, he has brought Greeks into the temple and defiled this holy place.” 29For they had previously seen Trophimus the Ephesian with him in the city, and they assumed that Paul had brought him into the temple. 30The whole city was stirred up, and the people rushed together. They seized Paul and dragged him out of the temple, and at once the gates were shut. 31While they were trying to kill him, the commander of the Roman regimentc received a report that all Jerusalem was in turmoil. 32Immediately he took some soldiers and centurions and ran down to the crowd. When the people saw the commander and the soldiers, they stopped beating Paul. 33The commander came up and arrested Paul, ordering that he be bound with two chains. Then he asked who he was and what he had done. 34Some in the crowd were shouting one thing, and some another. And since the commander could not get at the truth because of the uproar, he ordered that Paul be brought into the barracks. 35When Paul reached the steps, he had to be carried by the soldiers because of the violence of the mob. 36For the crowd that followed him kept shouting, “Away with him!” Paul Addresses the Crowd 37As they were about to take Paul into the barracks, he asked the commander, “May I say something to you?” “Do you speak Greek?” he replied. 38“Aren’t you the Egyptian who incited a rebellion some time ago and led four thousand members of the Assassins into the wilderness?” 39But Paul answered, “I am a Jew from Tarsus in Cilicia, a citizen of no ordinary city. Now I beg you to allow me to speak to the people.” 40Having received permission, Paul stood on the steps and motioned to the crowd. A great hush came over the crowd, and he addressed them in Hebrew:d Footnotes: 8 a See Acts 6:5. 27 b Literally from Asia; Asia was a Roman province in what is now western Turkey. 31 c Literally the commander of the cohort 40 d Or in Aramaic; literally in the Hebrew language Berean Standard Bible (BSB) printed 2016, 2020, 2022, 2025 by Bible Hub and Berean.Bible. Produced in cooperation with Bible Hub, Discovery Bible, unfoldingWord, Bible Aquifer, OpenBible.com, and the Berean Bible Translation Committee. This text of God's Word has been dedicated to the public domain. Free downloads and unlimited usage available. See also the Berean Literal Bible and Berean Interlinear Bible. Bible Hub Acts 21 Summary Paul's Journey to Jerusalem Verses 1–6 – From Miletus to Tyre Paul and his companions board coastal ships, sailing via Cos, Rhodes, and Patara before catching a larger vessel bound for Phoenicia. At Tyre they locate believers who, “through the Spirit, kept telling Paul not to go up to Jerusalem” (21:4). After a week of fellowship and prayer on the beach, the team presses on. Verses 7–14 – Prophecies and Pleas A brief stop in Ptolemais leads to Caesarea and the home of Philip the evangelist. Prophet Agabus vividly binds Paul’s belt, warning, “In this way the Jews of Jerusalem will bind the owner of this belt” (21:11). Despite tears and pleading, Paul stands firm: “I am ready not only to be bound, but even to die in Jerusalem for the name of the Lord Jesus” (21:13). The group surrenders to God’s plan. Verses 15–19 – Jerusalem Welcome Traveling with believers, Paul reaches Jerusalem and lodges with Mnason, an early disciple. The next day he meets James and the elders, reporting God’s work among the nations. They glorify God. Verses 20–26 – The Purification Plan Concerned about rumors that Paul teaches Jews abroad to forsake Moses, the elders suggest he join four men completing a vow and pay their expenses. Paul agrees, entering the temple to signal his respect for the law and to quiet fears. Verses 27–36 – Temple Riot and Roman Rescue Asian Jews spot Paul and accuse him of defiling the temple by bringing Greeks inside. A mob drags him out; gates slam shut; intent on killing him. The Roman commander rushes soldiers in, chains Paul, and tries to learn the charge amid shouts of confusion. Verses 37–40 – A Request to Speak At the steps of the barracks Paul addresses the commander in Greek, identifying himself as “a Jew from Tarsus.” Granted permission, he motions to the crowd and begins to speak in Hebrew, setting the stage for the next chapter. Acts 21 details Paul's journey to Jerusalem, despite multiple warnings about the impending hardships he would face there. It captures Paul's unshakeable resolve to obey God's will, his arrival in Jerusalem, the ensuing tumult, and his subsequent arrest - all pivotal moments in the Apostle's enduring mission. Geography and Travel Notes • The hop from Miletus to Cos (modern Kos) and Rhodes reflects the common coastal “cabotage” route used when winds favored shorter legs. • Patara’s deep harbor allowed a transfer to the larger Alexandrian grain ship headed straight to Phoenicia. • Tyre’s harbor, built by the Phoenicians, had Christian communities reaching back to Acts 11:19. • Caesarea, the Roman provincial capital, offers both a large man-made harbor (Herod’s engineering marvel) and the governor’s praetorium where Paul will soon be held (23:35). Prophecy and the Spirit’s Guidance Acts 20:22–23 already had Paul “compelled by the Spirit… not knowing what will happen… except that in every city imprisonment and afflictions await.” The repeated warnings in Tyre (21:4) and from Agabus (21:11) confirm the Spirit’s foreknowledge, not a prohibition. Compare Luke 2:34–35 where Simeon forewarns Mary of a sword; the alert is preparation, not prevention. Philip the Evangelist and His Daughters Philip (21:8) last appeared in Acts 8 evangelizing Samaria and the Ethiopian official. Two decades later he hosts Paul—the very man who once approved of Stephen’s death while Philip fled (Acts 8:1). His four unmarried daughters who prophesy echo Joel 2:28, showing the Spirit’s gifts across genders and generations. Agabus and Symbolic Actions Agabus mirrors Old Testament prophets who communicated through acted parables: • Isaiah walked barefoot for three years (Isaiah 20) • Jeremiah smashed a clay jar (Jeremiah 19) and wore an ox yoke (Jeremiah 27) • Ezekiel lay on his side and built a model siege (Ezekiel 4–5) Binding Paul’s belt dramatizes a truth hard to ignore. Purity Vows and the Nazarite Connection The four men were likely completing a temporary Nazarite-style vow (Numbers 6). Requirements: 1. Abstain from grape products 2. Let hair grow 3. Avoid corpse defilement 4. Offer sacrifices and shave the head at completion Paul’s payment of expenses (21:24) publicly associates him with Jewish piety, rebutting rumors. Later he writes, “To the Jews I became as a Jew, in order to win Jews” (1 Corinthians 9:20). Jewish-Gentile Relations in the Early Church • The elders reiterate the Jerusalem Council’s decree for Gentiles (21:25; cf. 15:19–21). • Paul keeps cultural flexibility while defending Gentile freedom. Galatians 2:3–5 shows he refused to circumcise Titus in Antioch, yet he circumcised Timothy for evangelistic reasons (16:3). The goal: preserve unity without compromising the gospel. Riot Dynamics and Roman Law • Outer Court signs warned Gentiles in Greek and Latin that entry beyond meant death. One stone, discovered in 1871, reads: “No foreigner may enter within the barricade… Whoever is caught will himself be responsible for his ensuing death.” The charge against Paul (21:28) exploited that rule. • The Roman commander (chiliarch) Claudius Lysias (22:26) holds authority over a cohort (≈1000 troops). Immediate intervention shows Rome’s priority: public order. • Binding with two chains fulfills Agabus’s prediction and mirrors Peter’s earlier arrest (12:6). Paul’s Citizenship Paul’s calm address in fluent Greek surprises the commander (21:37). His Roman citizenship, purchased by birth (22:28), grants rights against flogging without trial (cf. 16:37–39). God uses Paul’s background—Jewish scholar, Roman citizen, Hellenistic communicator—to open doors from synagogues to palaces. Archaeological Insights: Tyre, Caesarea, and the Temple • Underwater excavations at Tyre confirm stone quays large enough for Alexandrian grain ships. • Caesarea’s Herodian harbor employed hydraulic concrete; storms eventually silted it, but foundations remain visible today. • Temple grounds measured 35 acres; the Court of the Gentiles surrounded inner courts raised by balustrades (soreg). Stones bearing the warning inscription are housed in the Istanbul Archaeological Museum, underscoring the seriousness of the charge leveled at Paul. Connections to Paul’s Earlier Warnings of Imprisonment • 1 Thessalonians 3:3—“We were destined for trials.” • Romans 15:31—Paul asks prayer to be delivered from unbelievers in Judea, written mere months before Acts 21. • Ephesians 3:1; Philippians 1:7—Later “prison letters” reveal Paul viewing chains as an advance of the gospel. Lessons on Courage and Obedience • Obedience sometimes leads into hardship rather than away from it. • Christian unity requires sensitivity: Paul accommodates Jewish customs without surrendering Gentile liberty. • Prophetic insight aims to prepare believers, not paralyze them. • God uses political structures (Roman law) to safeguard His servants and spread the message to new audiences. Key Cross-References • John 16:33—“In the world you will have tribulation.” • Isaiah 50:7—“I have set my face like flint.” Mirrors Paul’s resolve. • Hebrews 13:13—“Let us go to Him outside the camp, bearing His reproach.” • 2 Timothy 4:17—Paul later testifies, “The Lord stood by me and gave me strength.” Acts 21 launches that journey. Takeaway Acts 21 pictures a mature believer willing to heed warnings yet undeterred from mission, skillfully balancing cultural sensitivity with gospel clarity, and trusting God to work through every chain and checkpoint to advance the name of Jesus. Connections to Additional Scriptures Acts 20:22-24 Paul's commitment to his mission despite knowing the hardships ahead. Romans 12:4-5 The importance of community and unity in the body of Christ. 1 Corinthians 9:19-23 Paul's approach to becoming all things to all people for the sake of the Gospel. 2 Timothy 1:7 Encouragement to have a spirit of power, love, and self-discipline. Teaching Points Paul's Determination Despite warnings from fellow believers, Paul is resolute in his mission to go to Jerusalem. Acts 21:13 states, Then Paul answered, 'Why are you weeping and breaking my heart? I am ready not only to be bound, but also to die in Jerusalem for the name of the Lord Jesus.' The Role of Prophecy The prophet Agabus foretells Paul's imprisonment, demonstrating the role of prophecy in the early church. Acts 21:11 says, Coming over to us, he took Paul’s belt, bound his own feet and hands, and said, 'The Holy Spirit says, ‘In this way the Jews of Jerusalem will bind the owner of this belt and hand him over to the Gentiles.’' Community and Support The believers in Tyre and Caesarea show hospitality and concern for Paul, highlighting the importance of Christian fellowship. Acts 21:5 notes, But when our time was up, we left and continued on our way. All the disciples and their wives and children accompanied us out of the city, and there on the beach we knelt to pray. Cultural Sensitivity Paul takes steps to demonstrate his respect for Jewish customs, showing his desire to bridge cultural divides. Acts 21:26 records, So the next day Paul took the men and purified himself along with them. Then he went into the temple to give notice of the date when the days of purification would end and the offering would be made for each of them. Practical Applications Courage in Obedience Like Paul, we should be willing to follow God's call, even when it leads us into difficult or dangerous situations. Value of Prophetic Insight We should be open to the guidance of the Holy Spirit through prophecy and discernment within the church community. Importance of Fellowship Engage actively in Christian community, offering and receiving support, prayer, and encouragement. Respect for Cultural Differences Strive to understand and respect cultural practices, especially when sharing the Gospel across different communities. People 1. Paul The central figure in Acts 21, Paul is an apostle and missionary who is traveling to Jerusalem despite warnings of impending danger. His journey and actions are pivotal in this chapter. 2. Philip the Evangelist Mentioned in Acts 21:8, Philip is one of the seven deacons chosen in Acts 6. He resides in Caesarea and is noted for his role in spreading the Gospel. 3. Agabus A prophet who comes down from Judea, Agabus is known for his prophetic acts. In Acts 21:10-11, he uses Paul's belt to foretell Paul's future imprisonment. 4. James Referred to in Acts 21:18, James is a leader of the Jerusalem church. He is often identified as James the Just, the brother of Jesus, and plays a significant role in the early church. 5. The Elders These are the leaders of the Jerusalem church who meet with Paul and James in Acts 21:18. They are responsible for guiding the church and addressing issues that arise. 6. The Jews from Asia In Acts 21:27, these individuals are responsible for inciting the crowd against Paul, accusing him of defiling the temple by bringing Gentiles into it. 7. Trophimus the Ephesian Mentioned in Acts 21:29, Trophimus is a Gentile believer and companion of Paul. His presence in Jerusalem is used by the Jews from Asia to falsely accuse Paul. 8. The Roman Commander In Acts 21:31-33, this unnamed Roman official intervenes to stop the mob from killing Paul. He is responsible for maintaining order and eventually arrests Paul. Places 1. Cos (Κῶς) Acts 21:1: "After we had torn ourselves away from them, we set sail straight for Cos..." Cos is an island in the Aegean Sea, known in Greek as Κῶς. It was a significant stop for travelers in the ancient world. 2. Rhodes (Ῥόδος) Acts 21:1: "...and the next day to Rhodes..." Rhodes is another island in the Aegean Sea, famous for the Colossus of Rhodes, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. The Greek name is Ῥόδος. 3. Patara (Πάταρα) Acts 21:1: "...and from there to Patara." Patara was a city on the southwestern coast of Lycia in Asia Minor, known in Greek as Πάταρα. It was an important maritime and commercial city. 4. Phoenicia (Φοινίκη) Acts 21:2: "Finding a ship crossing over to Phoenicia, we boarded it and set sail." Phoenicia refers to the coastal region in the eastern Mediterranean, known for its ancient seafaring and trade. The Greek term is Φοινίκη. 5. Cyprus (Κύπρος) Acts 21:3: "After sighting Cyprus and passing to the south of it, we sailed on to Syria." Cyprus is an island in the eastern Mediterranean, significant in early Christian history. The Greek name is Κύπρος. 6. Syria (Συρία) Acts 21:3: "...we sailed on to Syria." Syria, known in Greek as Συρία, was a Roman province in the eastern Mediterranean region. 7. Tyre (Τύρος) Acts 21:3: "We landed at Tyre, where our ship was to unload its cargo." Tyre is a historic city in Phoenicia, known in Greek as Τύρος. It was a major trade center in the ancient world. 8. Ptolemais (Πτολεμαΐς) Acts 21:7: "When we had finished our voyage from Tyre, we arrived at Ptolemais..." Ptolemais, known in Greek as Πτολεμαΐς, was a city on the coast of modern-day Israel, also known as Acre. 9. Caesarea (Καισάρεια) Acts 21:8: "Leaving the next day, we went on to Caesarea..." Caesarea, known in Greek as Καισάρεια, was a significant port city built by Herod the Great, located on the coast of modern-day Israel. 10. Jerusalem (Ἱεροσόλυμα) Acts 21:15: "After these days, we packed up and went on to Jerusalem." Jerusalem, known in Greek as Ἱεροσόλυμα, is the central city of Jewish worship and a pivotal location in Christian history. Events 1. Paul's Journey to Jerusalem Paul and his companions set sail from Miletus, passing through Cos, Rhodes, and Patara. They find a ship crossing to Phoenicia and continue their journey, eventually arriving in Tyre. (Acts 21:1-3) 2. Disciples in Tyre Warn Paul In Tyre, the disciples, through the Spirit, urge Paul not to go to Jerusalem. Despite their warnings, Paul is determined to continue his journey. (Acts 21:4-6) 3. Visit to Ptolemais and Caesarea After leaving Tyre, Paul and his companions arrive in Ptolemais, greet the brothers, and stay for a day. They then travel to Caesarea and stay at the house of Philip the evangelist. (Acts 21:7-8) 4. Prophecy of Agabus While in Caesarea, the prophet Agabus comes down from Judea. He takes Paul's belt, binds his own hands and feet, and prophesies that the Jews in Jerusalem will bind the man who owns the belt and deliver him to the Gentiles. (Acts 21:10-11) 5. Paul's Determination Despite the pleas from his companions and the local believers, Paul remains resolute in his decision to go to Jerusalem, stating his willingness to be bound and even to die for the name of the Lord Jesus. (Acts 21:12-14) 6. Arrival in Jerusalem Paul and his companions arrive in Jerusalem and are warmly received by the brothers. The following day, Paul meets with James and all the elders. (Acts 21:15-18) 7. Paul's Report and Advice from James Paul reports on his ministry among the Gentiles, and James and the elders glorify God. They advise Paul to join in purification rites with four men under a vow to dispel rumors that he teaches Jews to forsake the law. (Acts 21:19-24) 8. Paul's Participation in the Purification Rites Paul agrees to the elders' advice and participates in the purification rites, demonstrating his respect for the law. (Acts 21:26) 9. Paul Seized in the Temple Jews from Asia see Paul in the temple and stir up the crowd, accusing him of teaching against the people, the law, and the temple, and of bringing Greeks into the temple. (Acts 21:27-29) 10. Paul Arrested by Roman Soldiers The whole city is stirred, and people seize Paul, dragging him out of the temple. The Roman commander intervenes, arresting Paul and ordering him to be bound with two chains, fulfilling Agabus's prophecy. (Acts 21:30-33) 11. Paul's Request to Address the Crowd As Paul is being taken into the barracks, he asks the commander for permission to speak to the people. The commander is surprised to learn that Paul speaks Greek and allows him to address the crowd. (Acts 21:37-40) Lessons from Acts 21 1. The Power of Community Support In Acts 21, we see the Apostle Paul surrounded by a community of believers who support and encourage him. As he travels to Jerusalem, the disciples in Tyre urge him through the Spirit not to go. This highlights the importance of having a community that cares deeply for one another. As it is written, "And when we had finished our voyage from Tyre, we came to Ptolemais, greeted the brothers, and stayed with them for one day" (Acts 21:7). Surround yourself with a community that prays for you and offers wise counsel, as this can be a source of strength and guidance. 2. The Courage to Follow God’s Call Paul’s determination to go to Jerusalem, despite the warnings of danger, demonstrates his unwavering commitment to God’s call. He says, "I am ready not only to be bound, but also to die in Jerusalem for the name of the Lord Jesus" (Acts 21:13). This teaches us the importance of courageously following God’s call, even when it leads us into challenging situations. Trust in God’s plan and be bold in your faith. 3. The Role of Prophecy in Guidance The prophet Agabus warns Paul of the impending danger in Jerusalem by binding his own hands and feet with Paul’s belt, saying, "The Holy Spirit says, ‘In this way the Jews of Jerusalem will bind the owner of this belt and hand him over to the Gentiles’" (Acts 21:11). This illustrates how prophecy can serve as a guide and a warning. Be attentive to the ways God communicates His will, whether through Scripture, prayer, or the words of others. 4. The Importance of Humility and Submission Paul’s willingness to submit to the advice of the Jerusalem elders shows his humility. They suggest he take part in a purification ritual to dispel rumors about him, and he complies. "Then Paul took the men and purified himself along with them" (Acts 21:26). This act of humility teaches us the value of submitting to wise counsel and being willing to take steps to maintain unity and peace within the body of Christ. 5. The Reality of Misunderstanding and Persecution Despite Paul’s efforts to demonstrate his respect for Jewish customs, he is still misunderstood and persecuted. "The whole city was stirred up, and the people rushed together. They seized Paul and dragged him out of the temple" (Acts 21:30). This reminds us that following Christ may lead to misunderstanding and persecution, but we are called to remain steadfast in our faith. 6. The Sovereignty of God in All Circumstances Even as Paul faces arrest, God’s sovereignty is evident. The Roman commander intervenes just in time to prevent Paul from being killed by the mob. "The commander came up and arrested him, ordering that he be bound with two chains" (Acts 21:33). This shows that God is in control, even in chaotic situations, and He can use any circumstance for His purposes. 7. The Power of a Personal Testimony Paul’s request to speak to the crowd after his arrest highlights the power of a personal testimony. "Paul stood on the steps and motioned to the crowd. When all was silent, he addressed them in the Hebrew language" (Acts 21:40). Sharing your personal story of faith can be a powerful tool for evangelism, as it connects with others on a personal level and demonstrates the transformative power of Christ. 8. The Importance of Cultural Sensitivity Paul’s ability to speak in the Hebrew language to the crowd shows his cultural sensitivity and understanding. This approach helps him connect with his audience. Being aware of and respectful towards the cultural backgrounds of those we interact with can open doors for meaningful conversations about faith. 9. The Necessity of Perseverance Throughout Acts 21, Paul’s perseverance is evident. Despite numerous challenges, he remains committed to his mission. This teaches us the importance of perseverance in our own spiritual journeys. As Paul exemplifies, we must press on, trusting that God will provide the strength we need to fulfill His purposes. 10. The Assurance of God’s Presence Finally, Acts 21 reassures us of God’s constant presence. Even in the midst of trials, Paul is not alone. God’s presence is a source of comfort and strength. Remember the promise of Jesus: "And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age" (Matthew 28:20). Trust in His presence as you navigate the challenges of life. Topics 1. Paul’s Journey to Jerusalem Acts 21 begins with Paul and his companions setting sail from Miletus and traveling through various locations, including Cos, Rhodes, and Patara, before reaching Tyre. The passage highlights the guidance of the Holy Spirit as Paul continues his journey toward Jerusalem, despite warnings of impending hardships. 2. Warnings from the Disciples at Tyre While in Tyre, the disciples, through the Spirit, urge Paul not to go to Jerusalem. This reflects the Greek term "πνεῦμα" (pneuma), indicating the Holy Spirit's involvement in guiding and warning believers. 3. Departure from Tyre and Arrival in Ptolemais After spending seven days in Tyre, Paul and his companions continue their journey, stopping briefly in Ptolemais to greet the brothers and sisters in Christ. 4. Stay with Philip the Evangelist in Caesarea In Caesarea, Paul stays with Philip the Evangelist, one of the seven deacons. This visit underscores the fellowship and hospitality among early Christians. 5. Prophecy of Agabus The prophet Agabus arrives from Judea and uses Paul's belt to bind his own hands and feet, prophesying that the Jews in Jerusalem will bind Paul and deliver him to the Gentiles. This prophecy is a significant moment, emphasizing the Greek word "δέω" (deo), meaning to bind or tie, symbolizing the physical and spiritual trials Paul will face. 6. Paul’s Determination to Go to Jerusalem Despite the warnings and pleas from his companions and local believers, Paul remains resolute in his decision to go to Jerusalem, expressing his willingness to suffer for the name of the Lord Jesus. 7. Arrival in Jerusalem and Meeting with James Upon arriving in Jerusalem, Paul is warmly received by the brothers. The following day, he meets with James and the elders, providing a report of his ministry among the Gentiles. 8. Paul’s Participation in Jewish Rituals To address concerns among Jewish believers about his teachings, Paul agrees to participate in purification rites with four men under a vow. This action reflects the Greek term "καθαρίζω" (katharizo), meaning to cleanse or purify, demonstrating Paul's respect for Jewish customs. 9. Riot in the Temple Jews from Asia stir up a crowd against Paul, accusing him of teaching against the Jewish people, the law, and the temple. They also falsely claim he brought Greeks into the temple, leading to a riot and Paul's arrest. 10. Paul’s Arrest and Defense Roman soldiers intervene to prevent Paul from being killed by the mob. As he is being taken into the barracks, Paul requests to speak to the crowd, setting the stage for his defense and testimony about his faith and mission. Themes 1. Guidance of the Holy Spirit Acts 21 highlights the role of the Holy Spirit in guiding believers. In verse 4, it states, "Through the Spirit they kept telling Paul not to go up to Jerusalem." This reflects the Greek word "πνεῦμα" (pneuma), emphasizing the Spirit's active role in directing the early church. 2. Christian Fellowship and Support The chapter illustrates the strong bonds of fellowship among early Christians. In verse 5, it describes how the disciples, along with their families, accompanied Paul out of the city, demonstrating communal support and prayer: "All the disciples, with their wives and children, accompanied us out of the city, and there on the beach we knelt to pray." 3. Prophetic Warnings Acts 21 includes prophetic warnings about the challenges Paul will face. In verses 10-11, the prophet Agabus predicts Paul's imprisonment: "He took Paul’s belt, bound his own feet and hands, and said, 'The Holy Spirit says, ‘In this way the Jews of Jerusalem will bind the owner of this belt and hand him over to the Gentiles.’'" 4. Paul’s Determination and Obedience Despite warnings, Paul remains resolute in his mission. In verse 13, Paul responds to concerns by saying, "I am ready not only to be bound, but also to die in Jerusalem for the name of the Lord Jesus." This reflects his unwavering commitment to his calling. 5. Cultural and Religious Tensions The chapter addresses the tensions between Jewish traditions and the new Christian faith. In verses 20-21, the Jewish believers express concern over rumors that Paul is teaching Jews to abandon the law: "You see, brother, how many thousands of Jews have believed, and all of them are zealous for the law." 6. Misunderstanding and Conflict Acts 21 depicts how misunderstandings can lead to conflict. In verses 27-28, Paul is falsely accused of defiling the temple, which incites a riot: "Men of Israel, help us! This is the man who teaches all men everywhere against our people and our law and this place." 7. Divine Protection and Providence Despite the chaos, God's providence is evident as Paul is protected from harm. In verse 31-32, the Roman commander intervenes just as Paul is about to be killed: "As they were trying to kill him, the commander of the Roman cohort received a report that all Jerusalem was in turmoil." Prayer Points Pray for the courage to follow God's will, even when it leads to personal sacrifice. Ask for discernment and openness to the Holy Spirit's guidance in your life. Seek to build strong, supportive relationships within your Christian community. Pray for wisdom and sensitivity in sharing the Gospel across cultural boundaries. May this study of Acts 21 inspire us to live boldly for Christ, trusting in His guidance and strength. Answering Tough Questions 1. Acts 21:9 – Why is there no further historical or scriptural mention of Philip’s four prophesying daughters or their specific prophecies? 2. Acts 21:10–11 – Is there any non-biblical verification for Agabus’s prophecy about Paul’s arrest, or does it rely solely on the biblical text? 3. Acts 21:17–26 – Does Paul’s participation in Jewish purification rituals conflict with the New Testament teaching on salvation by faith alone? 4. Acts 21:27–36 – Why do historical or archaeological records outside the Bible not mention such a public riot and arrest in Jerusalem? 5. Acts 21:37–40 – How plausible is it that Paul, a “Jew of Tarsus,” was fluent in Greek and immediately recognized as such by a Roman commander? Bible Study Discussion Questions 1. How does Paul's journey to Jerusalem exemplify his obedience to God's will? 2. How can we draw strength from Paul's resolve when faced with personal trials in our lives? 3. What does the prophecy of Agabus teach us about accepting God's plan, even when it leads to hardships? 4. How does Paul's interaction with the disciples at Tyre demonstrate the bonds of Christian brotherhood? 5. How does Paul's arrival in Jerusalem and his subsequent actions clarify his mission? 6. How do we balance standing up for our faith and maintaining peace within our community, as Paul attempted to do in Jerusalem? 7. What strategies can we learn from Paul when faced with misrepresentations or misunderstandings about our faith? 8. How does Paul’s arrest highlight the cost of discipleship? 9. How can Paul's experience inspire us to handle opposition and criticism in our daily lives? 10. In what ways does Paul's decision to address the crowd reflect his unwavering dedication to spread the Gospel? 11. How do we reconcile with the reality of persecution and trials in our Christian journey, as exemplified by Paul's experiences? 12. How does the story of Paul's journey to Jerusalem challenge our understanding of sacrifice in our faith? 13. How can we discern God's will in the midst of opposition or challenges, as Paul did? 14. How can we maintain our faith and commitment in the face of foreseen difficulties and risks? 15. How does Paul's example guide us in defending our faith amidst criticisms and accusations? 16. How should we respond when our attempts to foster peace are met with hostility, as happened with Paul in Jerusalem? 17. How can we show resolve and courage when our faith is tested, following Paul's example? 18. How does the prophecy of Agabus speak to the importance of understanding and accepting God's will? 19. How should we react when our commitment to God's will leads us into challenging situations? 20. How does Acts 21 inspire us to stay the course, trusting in God's plan, regardless of the challenges we face? Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions