Chapter 21:
Verses 1-16 show us the courage that conviction brings to Paul:
- He left crying friends & family
- He didn’t depart from his plans/goal
- He continued on knowing trouble was ahead
- He continually prayed/trusted God
- He was willing not only to suffer but to die for Christ!
- Instead of others fears affecting Paul, Paul’s courage affected others!
Verses 17-40 mark another transition in Acts. His missionary journeys have come to an end and we read about the events that lead up to his arrest, where he would remain an “ambassador in chains” (Ephesians 6:20). Paul is welcomed by & gets to hang out with his church family & leaders in Jerusalem. They again express concern for his safety & so Paul submits to Jewish custom while at the same time not compromising truth. This is another example of “becoming all things to all people.”
Since his conversion on the Damascus road, Paul has ministered for Jesus freely, now he will be a prisoner - BUT take note that ministry did not end! Things seem to be going from bad to worse for Paul right now. In 27-30 this mob attacks him, in 31-36 he is arrested by the Romans and in the closing verses he pleads to give his defense – which will be in the next chapter.
SO WHAT?
*What convictions do you have deep down inside? How do those convictions expressed in courage?
*What tough things are you facing right now that you’re a bit fearful of? Cast those cares on Jesus because He cares for you! (1 Peter 5:7)
*What are you willing to do for the name of Jesus? Suffer? Die? Maybe, yet the far more difficult thing is to LIVE for Jesus! Chose the latter and God will control the rest.
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