Jerusalem
Paul Resolve to Visit Jerusalem
Welcome to you, to our Book of Acts Bible Study, “Apostle Paul Ready to Die in Jerusalem For the Name of The Lord Jesus.” Today, resume our study of Acts Chapter Twenty One, Acts 21:11 – 26.
Apostle Paul was in Caesarea as a guest of Evangelist Philip. Philip had four virgin daughters who prophesied. A prophet from Judaea name Agabus came to see them, Acts 21:9. While Agabus was, at Philip’s house, he saw Apostle Paul and his team of missionaries and he prophesied to Paul.
The prophet Agabus took Paul’s belt, tied his own hands and feet with it and said, “The Holy Spirit says, ‘In this way the Jewish leaders in Jerusalem will bind the owner of this belt and will hand him over to the Gentiles,” Acts 21:11, NIV.
When the people present heard these things, some cried but they all asked Apostle Paul not to go to Jerusalem, Acts 21:12. Their public display of emotions openly affected Paul but his resolve to visit Jerusalem was strengthened. However, when they realize they could not persuade Paul to change his mind they stopped, saying, “The will of the Lord be done,” Acts 21:14.
Believers in Jerusalem Gladly Received Paul
Apostle Paul and his Third Missionary Journey Team stayed a few days with Philip until it was time to depart for Jerusalem. And a “certain disciple” from that town accompanied them to Jerusalem. On arrival, in Jerusalem, the Believers gladly received them, Acts 21:15 – 17.
The following day, Apostle Paul and his Third Missionary Journey Team, went to see James and “all the elders” of the Church in Jerusalem, Acts 21:18. After making his initial greetings (to the church), Paul gave a verbal report of his ministry, Acts21:19. It was well received by them for they “glorified the Lord” Acts21:20.
The Elders of the Church in Jerusalem informed Apostle Paul of rumors and lies the Jews have been spreading concerning his teachings.
He was also advised of a course of action that could resolve this issue, Acts21:21- 24. They suggested Paul shave his head (with four others) and participate in the Purification process, which would attest that he keeps the law, Acts 21:26. Paul agreed to their suggestion and did according as the Elders requested.
The Holy Spirit had been preparing Apostle Paul for the rough times awaiting him in Jerusalem. Different Believers have been informing him, by the Holy Ghost, that he would be shackled and arrested in Jerusalem. This knowledge did not discourage Paul instead, it did the opposite. All this preparation made Paul more determined to go to Jerusalem. Similar to how Jesus’ face was set to go to Jerusalem Paul’s was too.
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