CHAPTER 21
Trouble in Jerusalem
On the journey to Jerusalem, Paul is warned over and over again, not to go. He even receives a specific warning, a visit from a prophet, who takes Paul’s belt, ties his own hands and feet, and tells Paul to expect to be tied up and taken captive in Jerusalem in the exact same manner.
Upon arriving at his destination, the apostles give Paul instructions on how to make peace with the Jewish leaders, but it seems turmoil is inevitable. A Roman commander has him detained before he’s beaten to death.
“The commander came up and arrested him and ordered him to be bound with two chains.“v.33
Before being taken away, Paul asks the commander if he can speak to the people. his request is granted.
Let’s Talk About It
Oh, The Irony
Part of the reason the angry crowd considered Paul worthy of death was due to false accusations that he had desecrated the temple by allowing a Greek disciple to accompany him inside. The irony is that they considered it an offense to allow a Gentile inside of the temple of God, when God was already inside of the Gentile! “Or do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit within you…” 1 Corinthians 6:19-20
Good Intentions vs. God’s Will
Paul’s path was plotted and God reassured him on his journey. Yet, people still warned Paul not to go to Jerusalem, even offering him “safe harbor.” God sees all the pieces. Paul’s letters that make up nearly half of the New Testament were written after he was arrested in Jerusalem and had made it to Rome. What if he would’ve listened to those that, meaning well, warned him against his will?
