Acts 21

Acts 21

There are three principal sections in Chapter 21.

  • The first (vv. 1–16) describes various events in Paul’s journey from Ephesus to Jerusalem.
  • The second (vv. 17–26) describes Paul’s visit to James and the plans made for Paul to undergo a ceremony of purification in company with four men who had taken a vow.
  • The last (vv. 27–40) describes Paul’s arrest and his conversation with the military commander ….[1]

Acts 21 (NKJV)

21 Now it came to pass, that when WE (Paul continued traveling with some companions, and when we) had departed (which literally means “to tear away”—Showing us that this was a really traumatic parting) from them (the Ephesian elders’) and set sail (leaving Miletus to resume his journey to Palestine, endeavoring to get there before The Day of Pentecost), running a straight course we came to Cos (a Mediterranean Island), the following day to Rhodes (here they would pass under one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World as they entered the harbor, the Colossus of Rhodes—the Greek titan-god of the sun Helios), and from there to Patara (not an island, but the mainland of Asia Minor).

When we think of Paul, often that which comes to mind is a strong, bold and courageous man, standing up against the world as he seeks to invite it to receive Christ as Savior.  But we need to remember, Paul traveled and served with a team much more often than on his own.  God certainly can and does empower us individually to accomplish His will, but most often, He empowers a team to do it together.  This is true even in marriage, Genesis 2:18 – And the Lord God said, “It is not good that man should be alone; I will make him a helper comparable to him.”

Ecclesiastes 4:9–12 – Two are better than one, because they have a good reward for their labor. For if they fall, one will lift up his companion. But woe to him who is alone when he falls, for he has no one to help him up.  Again, if two lie down together, they will keep warm; but how can one be warm alone? Though one may be overpowered by another, two can withstand him. And a threefold cord is not quickly broken.

Luke 10:1–3 – After these things the Lord appointed seventy others also, and sent them two by two before His face into every city and place where He Himself was about to go.  Then He said to them, “The harvest truly is great, but the laborers are few; therefore pray the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers into His harvest.  Go your way; behold, I send you out as lambs among wolves.

Matthew 18:20 – For where two or three are gathered together in My name, I am there in the midst of them.”

Acts 13:2–4 – As they ministered to the Lord and fasted, the Holy Spirit said, “Now separate to Me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them.” Then, having fasted and prayed, and laid hands on them, they sent them away. So, being sent out by the Holy Spirit, they went down to Seleucia, and from there they sailed to Cyprus.

Revelation 11:3 – And I will give power to my two witnesses, and they will prophesy one thousand two hundred and sixty days, clothed in sackcloth.”

All of the one another support teamwork as well, love one another, exhort one another, provoke one another, pray for one another, care for one another, etc.. 

The church is described as a family described for good reason.

 2 And finding a ship sailing over to Phoenicia (across the rest of the Mediterranean Sea to Palestine), we went aboard and set sail (This was probably a much larger ship than the island puddle jumpers, that would not dare to enter into the vast regions of the Mediterranean). 3 When we had sighted Cyprus, we passed it on the left (on the south side and), sailed to Syria, and landed at Tyre; for (the reason being) there the ship was to unload her cargo (at Tyre). 4 And finding disciples, (followers of Christ) we stayed there seven days (while waiting for the cargo to be unloaded.) 

It’s really interesting that the church at Tyre was founded by Christians who left Jerusalem after Stephen was stoned to death, and all the gospel believers became the next target, [11:19].  This period of persecution remember, was when Saul was the poster child of the anti-Christian movement!  But now Paul, not Saul, is back.

4 And finding disciples, we stayed there seven days (with them). They told (lit., “kept telling”) Paul (during his stay) through the (Holy) Spirit not to go up to Jerusalem (being affirmed that persecution awaited Paul there).

So, is Paul sinning by grieving and quenching the Holy Spirit here, by continuing to go to Jerusalem?

Second, Paul lived a life sensitive to the Spirit’s leading.

  • When forbidden by the Spirit to preach in certain regions, Paul did not disobey (Acts 16:6–7).
  • When led by the Spirit to minister in Macedonia, Paul immediately obeyed (Acts 16:9–10).
  • That long-term pattern of obedience makes it unlikely that he was disobedient in this matter.

Third, the Holy Spirit had never before prohibited Paul from going to Jerusalem. According to Acts 20:22–23, He warned Paul repeatedly of what would happen to him when he got there but did not tell him not to go. Acts 20:22–24 gives us another account of the Holy Spirit’s direction. – 22 And see, now I go bound in the spirit to Jerusalem, not knowing the things that will happen to me there, 23 except that the Holy Spirit testifies in every city, saying that chains and tribulations await me.

Fourth, Paul described his mission to Jerusalem as “the ministry which I received from the Lord Jesus” (Acts 20:24). How could the Holy Spirit forbid Paul from doing what the Lord Jesus Christ had commanded him to? Further, Acts 19:21 records that “Paul purposed in the spirit to go to Jerusalem,” while in Acts 20:22 the apostle describes himself as “bound in spirit …on my way to Jerusalem.” He was compelled in his innermost being by the Holy Spirit to undertake this mission.

Finally, the Scriptures nowhere suggest that Paul sinned by going to Jerusalem. After he got there he declared, “I have lived my life with a perfectly good conscience before God up to this day” (Acts 23:1; cf. 24:16). It is difficult to see how he could have said that if he had just flagrantly sinned against God.

The Spirit’s message to Paul in Tyre, as elsewhere, was a warning, not a prohibition.[2]

Another reason for Paul not being in sin here is that his traveling companions continued on with him as well, “When WE had came to the end of those days WE departed and went on OUR way…” (v. 5).

 5 When we had come to the end of those days (after the ship had unloaded its cargo), we departed (boarded the ship) and went on our way (toward Jerusalem); and (Paul’s time with them was so meaningful that) they all accompanied us, with wives and children (entire families), till we were out of the city. And we knelt down on the shore (before boarding the ship) and prayed (enjoying the Lord together and committing one another to His care and will). 6 When we had taken our leave of one another (after we had expended every available second we had together), we boarded the ship (to head for our destination), and they returned home (back to the city).

Everyone is telling Paul, that the Holy Spirit is pressing upon them a great burden for Paul, concerning his personal wellbeing.  Certainly this contributed to the company in Miletus as well as here in Tyre praying for Paul.  But not only praying, but praying with such anguish.

I am sure that they continued to pray for Paul even after he left.

Christ and the Holy Spirit not only pray for us, but God stirs up the hearts of the saints to pray for us! Why? Because prayer is real, and powerful, and effective, availing much.

Psalm 50:15 – Call upon Me in the day of trouble; I will deliver you, and you shall glorify Me.”

Psalm 91:15 – He shall call upon Me, and I will answer him; I will be with him in trouble; I will deliver him and honor him.

James 5:15 –And the prayer of faith will save the sick, and the Lord will raise him up. And if he has committed sins, he will be forgiven.

John 14:13 – And whatever you ask in My name, that I will do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son.

Psalm 66:20 – Blessed be God, who has not turned away my prayer, nor His mercy from me!

Psalm 118:21 – I will praise You, for You have answered me, and have become my salvation.

James 5:16 – Confess your trespasses to one another, and pray for one another, that you may be healed. The effective, fervent prayer of a righteous man avails much.

7 And when we had finished our (30 mile) voyage from Tyre, we came to Ptolemais [Pe-toll-i-mi-lease], (Acco in the OT, not quite half way between Tyre and Caesarea, Paul’s last stop on the ship, and at Ptolemais [Pe-toll-i-mi-lease]) greeted the brethren (the local church there, probably also founded by Christians fleeing persecution in Jerusalem), and (not missing a kingdom opportunity) stayed with them one day (assumedly while the ship unloaded and/or took on cargo). 8 On the next day we who were Paul’s companions (Paul may have chosen to walk, they with or without Paul) departed and (40 miles later) came to (Jerusalem’s port) Caesarea (by the sea—only 60 miles now from Jerusalem itself.  Caesarea by the sea is a large city of Jews and Gentiles—considered by the Jews at this time to be a foreign city because of the major Roman presence and thus culture there), and (at Caesarea, they) entered the house of Philip the evangelist (Philip is the only person in the Scriptures to be given this title, and he was the pioneer in taking the gospel to the Gentiles and Samaritans.  The Ethiopian eunuch was one of his first converts. Philip), who was one of the seven (chosen about 20 years earlier, to supervise the dispersal of food to the widows), and (Paul and his team) stayed with him. 9 Now this man (Phillip) had four virgin daughters who prophesied (No information is given other than this about them.  From the church fathers we know that they later moved to Hierapolis, surrounded by some of the 7 churches in western Asia Minor and that is where they were buried. Eusebius, a historian of the time, mentions that they were often used as a source of information). 10 And as we stayed many days (at Phillips’ and one day), a certain prophet named Agabus came down from Judea (Earlier, Agabus predicted the famine coming to the Roman world in Acts 11:28, which the church took up collections for). 11 When he had come to us, he took Paul’s belt, bound his own hands and feet, and said (what so many others had said at this point), “Thus says the Holy Spirit (God the Spirit, Himself), ‘So shall the Jews (Paul’s own Jewish nation) at Jerusalem (in the holy city) bind the man who owns this belt (Paul), and deliver him (as a prisoner) into the hands (the power and authority) of the Gentiles.’ ” (Notice God’s grace here though, as God is not just allowing this incarceration in His permissive will, but He is also intervening in His decretive will as the Jews would have killed him if the Romans had not showed up and took Paul.)

12 Now when we heard these things (that the Holy Spirit said through Agabus), both we (Paul’s companions) and those from that place (the Christians at Caesarea, out of their love and concern for Paul) pleaded (begged, implored) with him not to go up to Jerusalem. (not to personally deliver the love offering and complete his vow.  The often repeated statements and the tension of it all, finally overwhelmed Paul’s companions).

Matthew Henry comments here: But we see in them the infirmity incident to us all; when we see trouble at a distance, and have only a general notice of it, we can make light of it; but when it comes near we begin to shrink, and draw back. But now it comes upon you, and you are weary; it touches you, and you are troubled.  Job 4:5.[3]

“We are not called to be safe, we are simply promised that when we are in danger, God is right there with us. And there is no better place to be than in His hands.” 
― Katie J. Davis, Kisses from Katie: A Story of Relentless Love and Redemption

Luke 12:4–5 – I say to you, My friends, do not be afraid of those who kill the body, and after that have no more that they can do.  But I will show you whom you should fear: Fear Him who, after He has killed, has power to cast into hell; yes, I say to you, fear Him!

13 Then Paul answered, “What do you mean by weeping and breaking (crushing) my heart? (Don’t make it any harder than it already is.) For I am ready not only to be bound (which is all Agabus said), but also to die at Jerusalem for the name of the Lord Jesus.”  (Paul had already proven this many times over so he is not making a boast.  He’s not trying to be dramatic.)

Paul had already drawn the line as to how far he was willing to go, I am “ready” not only to be bound, but also to die… 

Paul says again later on in 2 Timothy 4:6–8 – 6 For I am already being poured out as a drink offering, and the time of my departure is at hand. 7 I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. 8 Finally, there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will give to me on that Day, and not to me only but also to all who have loved His appearing.

Paul also made it clear in Luke 11:13, why he was willing to go so far, for the name of the Lord Jesus.

Paul is willing to surrender his life if necessary, for the person and benefit of the Lord Jesus.

Galatians 2:20 – I have been crucified with Christ; it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me; and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself for me.

2 Corinthians 5:14–15 – For the love of Christ compels us, because we judge thus: that if One died for all, then all died; and He died for all, that those who live should live no longer for themselves, but for Him who died for them and rose again.

Matthew Henry says, “Here is a quarrel of love on both sides, and very sincere and strong affections clashing with each other.”[4]

We find here a similar situation that Jesus and Peter found themselves in.  Jesus said that He had to go to Jerusalem and He would be killed there.  Peter said no way, not on his watch and Jesus rebuked Peter saying, “Get thee behind me, Satan!”  (Mat. 16:23)        

Often times we focus too much on the COST rather than the PRIZE.

One of the mantras of the Coast Guard is that they have to go out; but they don’t have to come back.

General Robert E. Lee understood this principle when he said to one of his generals at Gettysburg, “To be a good soldier you must love the army. To be a good commander you must be able to order the death of the thing you love.”

“People often ask if I think my life is dangerous, if I am afraid. I am much more afraid of remaining comfortable. Matthew 10:28 tells us not to fear things that can destroy the body but things that can destroy the soul. I am surrounded by things that can destroy the body. I interact almost daily with people who have deadly diseases, and many times I am the only person who can help them. I live in a country with one of the world’s longest-running wars taking place just a few hours away. Uncertainty is everywhere. But I am living in the midst of the uncertainty and risk, amid things that can and do bring physical destruction, because I am running from things that can destroy my soul: complacency, comfort, and ignorance. I am much more terrified of living a comfortable life in a self-serving society and failing to follow Jesus than I am of any illness or tragedy.” 
― Katie J. Davis, Kisses from Katie

“And if one person sees the love of Christ in me, it is worth every minute. In fact, it is worth spending my life for.” 
― Katie J. Davis, Kisses from Katie

14 So when he (Paul) would not (let himself) be persuaded (we could not win him over.  It was like Paul, was putting his fingers in his ears saying, “La, La, La, La, La La, while they spoke to him, so), we ceased (in our efforts), saying (instead), “The will of the Lord be done.” (We surrender you to the Lord as you yourself obviously already have.)

It’s interesting they didn’t say they agreed with Paul! Because they still didn’t. They did take a step forward though, and that is what a true friend helps another friend to do; to move forward

This is not the first time God has asked something like this concerning his saints, for example:

Ezekiel 3:5–9 – 5 For you are not sent to a people of unfamiliar speech and of hard language, but to the house of Israel, 6 not to many people of unfamiliar speech and of hard language, whose words you cannot understand. Surely, had I sent you to them, they would have listened to you. 7 But the house of Israel will not listen to you, because they will not listen to Me; for all the house of Israel are impudent and hard-hearted. 8 Behold, I have made your face strong against their faces, and your forehead strong against their foreheads. 9 Like adamant stone, harder than flint, I have made your forehead; do not be afraid of them, nor be dismayed at their looks, though they are a rebellious house.”

15 And after those days (at Philips) we (the team—who by identifying with Paul, would jeopardize themselves as well by association.  Even so, they) packed and went up to Jerusalem (with Paul). 16 Also (in addition to Paul’s team) some of the disciples from Caesarea went with us (to Jerusalem) and brought with them a certain Mnason of Cyprus, an early disciple (so he was probably well known and he was also well to do, so he was a great candidate), with whom we were to lodge (at Jerusalem, as he could care for a group this size).

17 And when we had come to Jerusalem, the brethren (the church) received us (all of us, Jewish and Gentile converts) gladly (certainly happy to see them all and to receive the love offering for the poor too; a great reunion and communion). 18 On the following day Paul went in with us to James (the spokesman for the Jerusalem Council [12:17]), and all the elders (who were now a major part in the leadership of the council as there is no mention of any of the apostles) were present. (The church is continuing to grow and the Joshua’s are coming up behind the Apostles.)

The purpose of Paul’s visit is threefold:

  • first, to deliver the monetary gift from the Gentile churches;
  • next, to strengthen the bond between Jews and Gentiles by having James and the elders meet Gentile representatives;
  • last, to give a report of the growth and influence of Gentile churches.[5]

 19 When he (Paul) had greeted them (James and the Elders), he told in detail (not just the highlights or a synopsis, but all) those things (during his third missionary journey) which God (not Paul and his team) had done among the Gentiles (not the Jews) through his ministry.

We’d do well to follow Paul’s example of not bragging; and Paul had a lot of potential bragging rights!  Just think of the stories he could tell!

  • You should have seen the 80 foot wave that instantly sank our ship and left me treading water for 3 whole days!
  • You should have seen the size of the rocks they threw at us in some of the towns we visited! Half of them were pitchers in the major league!  Those curve balls were really hard to dodge.
  • Or, in this one town I led 29 people to the Lord just setting up the tent for our meetings.  I led 12 more to the Lord while I was stirring the lemonade. At the first night of tent meetings, I led two towns to Christ.
  • Or, we established 23 new churches, 7 colleges and 3 seminaries on this third trip!

I’m of course being facetious here, but Paul could have had more ways to put himself on display than another other Christian alive during that time.  He lived an extraordinary life. If he was ever tempted to put himself on display, he didn’t, he only had praise for the Lord.

If we are tempted to start bragging, we need to “think of the whale.  Whenever he spouts off, he takes the chance of being harpooned!”[6]

Humility is a quality that every believer ought to have lots of.  We are God’s instrument, not His gift.

1 Corinthians 3:5–7 – Who then is Paul, and who is Apollos, but ministers through whom you believed, as the Lord gave to each one? 6 I planted, Apollos watered, but God gave the increase. 7 So then neither he who plants is anything, nor he who waters, but God who gives the increase.

1 Corinthians 15:10 – But by the grace of God I am what I am, and His grace toward me was not in vain; but I labored more abundantly than they all, yet not I, but the grace of God which was with me.

2 Corinthians 10:17 – But “he who glories, let him glory in the Lord.”

What an example of servitude Paul was providing for James and the elders, as well as for his team.

 20 And when they heard it(how God was working and blessing), they glorified the Lord (they worshiped Him, they reveled in Him).

This is how we are to respond to

Earlier when Christ ministered here on earth and in the earlier years of the new church, Gentiles getting saved rather than Jews would have brought “Boos!” not praise.  The church is not only growing numerically, it is also growing spiritually.

Thought 1. Note the lessons for churches and believers of every generation.

1)  Churches should be informed of mission tours in detail.

2)  God alone should be recognized and credited with being the Person who does the work.

3)  God alone should be praised for what is wrought.

John 15:8 – By this My Father is glorified, that you bear much fruit; so you will be My disciples.

Hebrews 13:15 – Therefore by Him let us continually offer the sacrifice of praise to God, that is, the fruit of our lips, giving thanks to His name.

Psalm 107:22 – Let them sacrifice the sacrifices of thanksgiving, and declare His works with rejoicing. [7]

20And when they heard it, (the report concerning Paul’s third missionary journey) they glorified the Lord. And (then) they said to him (shared a concern with Paul), “You see (I’m sure you have noticed since you’ve arrived back in Palestine), brother, how many myriads (tens of thousands) of Jews there are who have believed (in Christ for their salvation), and (yet) they are all zealous (still) for the law (not for their salvation, but they just can’t bring themselves to part from it for traditions sake, for their love and respect to God’s former program); 21 but they (these believing zealots) have been informed about you (though out of context) that you teach all the Jews who are among the Gentiles to forsake (the Law of) Moses, saying that they ought not to (any longer) circumcise their children (according to the Law) nor to walk (live) according to the customs (of the Law).

This provided the nonbelieving Judaizers with an opportunity to twist the rumors to their advantage and put Paul and the gospel of Christ in a really bad light.

Matthew Henry has some great comments about this.

It was dead, but not buried; dead, but not yet deadly.

This was a great weakness and mistake, to be so fond of the shadows when the substance was come, to keep their necks under a yoke of bondage when Christ had come to make them free.[8]

It was not outright sinful to follow the Law, but it was not helpful like it once was.  Romans 14:1–2 – Receive one who is weak in the faith, but not to disputes over doubtful things. 2 For one believes he may eat all things, but he who is weak eats only vegetables.

Romans 14:5–6 – One person esteems one day above another; another esteems every day alike. Let each be fully convinced in his own mind. 6 He who observes the day, observes it to the Lord; and he who does not observe the day, to the Lord he does not observe it. He who eats, eats to the Lord, for he gives God thanks; and he who does not eat, to the Lord he does not eat, and gives God thanks.

Romans 14:13 – Therefore let us not judge one another anymore, but rather resolve this, not to put a stumbling block or a cause to fall in our brother’s way.

Romans 14:14 – I know and am convinced by the Lord Jesus that there is nothing unclean of itself; but to him who considers anything to be unclean, to him it is unclean.

Paul did warn the Gentiles not to get involved in the old Jewish religion (Gal. 4:1–11); but he nowhere told the Jews that it was wrong for them to practice their customs, so long as they did not trust in ceremony or make their customs a test of fellowship (Rom. 14:1–15:7). There was freedom to observe special days and diets, and believers were not to judge or condemn one another. The same grace that gave the Gentiles freedom to abstain also gave the Jews freedom to observe. All God asked was that they receive one another and not create problems or divisions.[9]

They didn’t do well at accepting one another though.  There were a lot of fights and divisions. The same struggles we face today, were faced by the very first century Christians. 

  • Legalism
  • Name calling
  • Prejudices
  • Lies
  • Preferences
  • Confusion

To Paul’s credit, we should note that in his work and life he demonstrated his loyalty to the Jews by adhering to Jewish customs. For instance,

  • he had Timothy circumcised at the very time when he was delivering the letter of the Jerusalem Council to the churches in Galatia (16:3–4).
  • Next, he himself had taken a Nazirite vow that required cutting his hair and appearing at the Jerusalem temple before a specified date (18:18).
  • And last, in his epistles, he never forbids Jews to circumcise their children.[10]

It wasn’t until A.D. 70, before following the Law ceased.  That is when the Romans tore down the wall of Jerusalem and the temple.

The Jewish Christian “zealots” had been informed, through rumors, that Paul was teaching all the Jews he had contacted who live among the Gentiles to turn away from Moses (“turn away” is the Greek word apostasian, from which the word “apostasy” comes). Not only that, but they had heard that Paul was minimizing the rite of circumcision and allowing the Jews to stop living according to the Jewish customs.

The Jerusalem council (chapter 15) had settled the issue of circumcision of Gentile believers. Evidently, there was a rumor that Paul had gone far beyond the council’s decision, even forbidding Jews to circumcise their children.[11]

 22 What then (What should be done in light of this)? The assembly must certainly meet (we have to come up with a plan to deal with this), for they will hear that you have come (when they know you are in town, there’s going to be trouble). 23 Therefore do what we tell you (i.e., here’s how we think we should handle this dangerous misinformation): We have four men who have (earlier) taken a (Nazirite) vow.

The Nazirite vow, expounded at length in Numbers 6, symbolized total separation to God. It involved abstaining from alcoholic beverages and all other products derived from grapes, letting the hair of the head grow long, and avoiding contact with dead bodies. The usual length of the vow was thirty days (cf. Josephus Wars 2.15.1), although Samson (Judg. 16:17), Samuel (1 Sam. 1:11), and John the Baptist (Luke 1:15) were Nazirites for life. It manifested the highest level of spiritual devotion.[12]

24 Take them (now) and be purified with them (Paul had not taken a Nazirite vow at this time and would have to then go through a week long purification process in order to be associated with them. He had spent his third missionary journey, like the others, among the Gentiles which would have made him ceremonially unclean.), and pay their expenses so that they may shave their heads (Paying for the expenses, e.g., the cutting their hair and offering several expensive sacrifices would be considered an act of piety and agreement with their vow and thus bring Paul into association with the men and their vow.), and that all may know that those things of which they were informed concerning you are nothing (The benefits of taking the time to be associated with these four men, would clearly demonstrate that the information about him was untrue.), but that you yourself also walk orderly and keep the law (that you are not against the law and can walk according to its ways).

If it had been a matter involving somebody’s personal salvation, you can be sure that Paul would never have cooperated; for that would have compromised his message of salvation by grace, through faith. But this was a matter of personal conviction on the part of Jewish believers who were given the freedom to accept or reject the customs.[13]

 25 But (for clarification) concerning (the law and) the Gentiles who believe, we have written and decided that they should observe no such thing (that they don’t need to follow the Mosaic rituals and ceremonies), except that they should keep themselves from things offered to idols, from blood, from things strangled, and from sexual immorality (in keeping with the earlier Jerusalem Council regarding the Gentiles).”

Arrested in the Temple

26 Then Paul (agreed with the plan and) took the men, and the next day (on Pentecost Sunday), having been purified with them (beginning his purification process, Paul then), entered the temple to announce the expiration (the conclusion) of the days of purification (when his and their purification would be complete), at which time an offering should be made for each one of them (which Paul would cover the expenses of).

Paul the Prisoner

I. Paul’s treatment as a prisoner (21:27-23:37)[14]

A. Rescued from the temple (27-39)

  1. How people were aroused (27-31)

a. The men involved (27-28)

(1) Their national identification (27)

27 Now (in the meantime) when the seven days were almost ended (and the sacrifices would be offered), the Jews (who opposed to Paul and his teachings) from (the Roman province of) Asia, seeing him (Paul) in the temple (as he was required to visit the temple on the third and seventh days during his purification process—they immediately), stirred up the whole crowd (into a riotous mood) and laid hands on him (mobbed Paul),

(2) Their natural indignation (28)

 28 crying out (to the others in the temple), “Men of Israel (lit., “Jerusalemites” —Notice that they did not call the temple guards, but the general populace.  They weren’t interested in a legal system, they simply screamed), help (Quick, come and help us)! This is the man who [1] teaches (instructs) all men everywhere (a further exaggeration of the lie) against the people (of God’s chosen nation, the Jews and thus), the law (of Moses—In other words, Paul is an enemy of the Jewish people and Judaism), and this place (our beloved temple);

John  MacArthur points out here that “The second charge was that Paul opposed the Law. That was a particularly serious accusation in this setting, since the Jewish people were especially zealous for the law at Pentecost. Originally a celebration of the first fruits of the harvest, in Paul’s day Pentecost had come to be a celebration of the giving of the law to Moses on Mount Sinai. Charging Paul at this time with teaching against the law was sure to infuriate the crowds.”[15]

They use the same tactics that they used against:

Jesus—Mark 14:57–58 – Then some rose up and bore false witness against Him, saying, “We heard Him say, ‘I will destroy this temple made with hands, and within three days I will build another made without hands.’ ”

Stephen—Acts 6:13 – They also set up false witnesses who said, “This man does not cease to speak blasphemous words against this holy place and the law;

28 This is the man who [1] teaches all men everywhere against the people, the law, and this place and furthermore (if that is not bad enough, Paul adds sacrilege to his crimes as they alleged) [2] he also brought Greeks (Gentiles who are forbidden) into the temple and (thus) has defiled this holy (most sacred) place.”

In the temple, separating the court of the Gentiles from the other courts, stood a wall beyond which no Gentile was allowed to go (note Eph. 2:14). On the wall was this solemn inscription: “No foreigner may enter within the barricade which surrounds the sanctuary and enclosure. Anyone who is caught so doing will have himself to blame for his ensuing death.” The Romans had granted the Jewish religious leaders authority to deal with anybody who broke this law, and this included the right of execution.

It has well been said that, though a rumor doesn’t have a leg to stand on, it travels mighty fast! …rumors are not usually based on fact, but thrive on half-truths, prejudices, and outright lies.[16]

b. The mistake involved (29)

 29 (For [the reason for their making these accusations] they had previously (earlier) seen Trophimus the Ephesian (Gentile Christian) with him (Paul) in the city (of Jerusalem), whom they supposed (conveniently assumed in their bias toward Paul) that Paul had brought (him) into the temple.) (with him.  Paul wouldn’t do this under any conditions, but certainly not while he was going through the temple purification rites.  Bringing Tropohimus into the temple would defile both, Paul and the temple.  It would sabotage the plan.  It would have brought on the death of Trophimus right on the spot.)

  • It would go entirely against Paul’s love for his fellow Jews.  Romans 9:1–5 – I tell the truth in Christ, I am not lying, my conscience also bearing me witness in the Holy Spirit, 2 that I have great sorrow and continual grief in my heart. 3 For I could wish that I myself were accursed from Christ for my brethren, my countrymen according to the flesh, 4 who are Israelites, to whom pertain the adoption, the glory, the covenants, the giving of the law, the service of God, and the promises; 5 of whom are the fathers and from whom, according to the flesh, Christ came, who is over all, the eternally blessed God. Amen.

Romans 10:1 – Brethren, my heart’s desire and prayer to God for Israel is that they may be saved.

  • It would go entirely against Paul’s evangelistic strategy.  1 Corinthians 9:19–23 – For though I am free from all men, I have made myself a servant to all, that I might win the more; 20 and to the Jews I became as a Jew, that I might win Jews; to those who are under the law, as under the law, that I might win those who are under the law; 21 to those who are without law, as without law (not being without law toward God, but under law toward Christ), that I might win those who are without law; 22 to the weak I became as weak, that I might win the weak. I have become all things to all men, that I might by all means save some. 23 Now this I do for the gospel’s sake, that I may be partaker of it with you.
  • c. The mob involved (30-31)
  • (1) Its passion (30)

30 And all the city was disturbed (this is the word for “violent motion and emotion”—the lies traveled like wildfire and soon all of Jerusalem was seeing red and eager for a lynching); and the people ran together (the people couldn’t run fast enough to get to the culprit and scene of the alleged crime, once there, they too), seized Paul, and dragged him (like an animal) out of the temple (knowing if they killed Paul in the temple they would defile it themselves); and (once out in the Court of the Gentiles) immediately the doors were shut (cutting off any support or refuge to Paul).

Matthew Henry has some great words concerning the shutting of the temple doors, he says:

See how absurd these wicked men were; they condemned Paul for drawing people from the temple, and yet, when he himself was very devoutly worshipping in the temple, they drew him out of it.[17]

Judaism certainly had no interest in and would have nothing to do with Jesus Christ or His followers, the church, not even in a humanitarian way.

God had Himself left the temple after the crucifixion of Christ, tearing the vail to the holy of holies in half. 

Also, was not the temple already polluted by their anti-God tactics?

  • The followers of Judaism were more in love with their programs than with their God behind the design of their programs.
  • They were functioning from a fortress mentality rather than from being a force. 
    • Their temple had in practice become an idol.
  • They felt their God had to be defended.
  • Their personal offences were more important to them than truth. 
    • Any accusation was to have at least 2 witnesses. 
    • They were also to go to the leaders with their accusations not the general populous.
    • They were not even devotedly following the Law of Moses they so piously professed to be defending.
  • They appear to be weak in their personal relationship with their Creator.
    • No one takes the matter to God Himself, whom they claim they are standing up for. 
    • They seem to neither fear God or regard their fellow man.
  • The spiritual leadership and authorities are weak as their conclusion to the matter was simply to shut the temple doors on the situation.
  • (2) Its purpose (31)

 31 Now (outside the temple) as they were seeking (endeavoring, moving next) to kill him (savagely beating Paul to death outside the temple when), news (of the disturbance) came to the (Roman) commander (Claudiuis Lysias [liss-ee-iss], Acts 23:26) of the garrison (of 1,000 Roman soldiers) that all Jerusalem (this was no small group) was in an uproar (“uproar” actually means to be confused or confounded, so their violent motion and emotion was taking place in a state of confusion and disorientation.)

This is the work of the devil, not the God they were supposedly representing.

1 Corinthians 14:33 – God is not the author of confusion but of peace, as in all the churches of the saints.

John 8:44 – You are of your father the devil, and the desires of your father you want to do. He was a murderer from the beginning, and does not stand in the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he speaks a lie, he speaks from his own resources, for he is a liar and the father of it.

1 John 3:10–12 – In this the children of God and the children of the devil are manifest: Whoever does not practice righteousness is not of God, nor is he who does not love his brother. For this is the message that you heard from the beginning, that we should love one another, 12 not as Cain who was of the wicked one and murdered his brother. And why did he murder him? Because his works were evil and his brother’s righteous.

The headquarters of the Roman occupation forces was Fort Antonia, located on a precipice overlooking the temple grounds. From its towers sentries had a clear view of the temple area, where civil unrest in Jerusalem was most likely to break out. During major religious celebrations, such as Pentecost, the Romans were especially watchful. Thus, it did not take the alert sentries long to spot the riot breaking out below them.[18]

2. How Paul was arrested (32-39)

a. His peril (32-33)

(1) Beaten by the Rabble (32)

 32 He (Claudius Lysias [liss-ee-iss]) immediately took (some of his personal) soldiers and centurions (at the very least, 200 plus men—with the others back in the fort certainly on high alert), and ran (charged, battle ready) down to them. And when they (the Jewish rioters) saw the commander (Lysias [liss-ee-iss]) and the soldiers (bursting in on the scene in battle array and), they (immediately) stopped beating Paul.

Notice that when the wrongful deeds of these men are approached by God ordained authorities, they flinch, because they know they don’t hold the moral and righteous high ground.

Proverbs 20:8 – A king who sits on the throne of judgment scatters all evil with his eyes.

Romans 13:1–4 – Let every soul be subject to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God, and the authorities that exist are appointed by God. 2 Therefore whoever resists the authority resists the ordinance of God, and those who resist will bring judgment on themselves. 3 For rulers are not a terror to good works, but to evil. Do you want to be unafraid of the authority? Do what is good, and you will have praise from the same. 4 For he is God’s minister to you for good. But if you do evil, be afraid; for he does not bear the sword in vain; for he is God’s minister, an avenger to execute wrath on him who practices evil.

Were these Jews showing themselves any different from the worldly Roman world?  Not at all.  They were not separate from the world, they applied the same tactics as the world when it fit their need.

They were to be the light of the world, not like the world.  They were to be the salt of the earth, not the same vinegar.

(3) Bound by the Romans (33)

 33 Then the commander came near (to the center of the mob) and took him (Paul into his custody, assuming Paul had done something seriously wrong, and thinking him to be a known Egyptian terrorist, [vs. 38]), and (thus) commanded him to be bound with two chains (officially taking Paul into his custody and protection, also fulfilling Agabus’ prophecy [21:10, 11]); and he asked (the idea here is he repeatedly asked the mob over and over again) who he was and what he had done.

b. His people (34-36)

(1) Their frenzied disorder (34)

34 And some among the multitude cried one thing and some another (The state of confusion and mindlessness was evidenced).

Paul, himself, remains quiet.  When the Holy Spirit doesn’t prompt us to speak up, we ought to remain quiet.

It appears as well that the original Asian Jewish instigators have either taken off or have slipped back into the shadows knowing their accusations would hold no weight in the light of truth, even the Romans version of truth.

From Luke’s narrative we learn that Roman authorities were kindly disposed toward Paul. Except in Philippi (16:22), officials of the Roman government repeatedly favored and sheltered Paul. For instance,

  • in Corinth the Roman proconsul acquitted Paul even before he had an opportunity to defend himself (18:14–15).
  • In Ephesus, the Asiarchs advised Paul not to enter the theater (19:31).
  • During the voyage to Rome, the centurion named Julius was kindly disposed toward Paul and allowed him to go ashore at Sidon to see his friends (27:3).[19]
  • (2) Their fanatical desire (35)

34 And some among the multitude cried one thing and some another. So when he (Lysias [liss-ee-iss]) could not ascertain the truth because of the tumult (as the Jewish mob had never taken the time to find out what the truth was themselves), he commanded him (Paul) to be taken into the barracks (back to Fort Antonia, where Paul would be interrogated). 35 When he reached the stairs (the 2 flights of stairs that led up to Fort Antonia), he (Paul) had to be carried by the soldiers (at that point) because of the (returning, senseless) violence of the mob (pressing to have Paul return to his beating).

(3) Their furious demand (36)

36 For the multitude of the people followed after (pressed the soldiers, trying to get at Paul), crying out (all the while), “Away with him!” (i.e., “let us kill him” or “come, we must kill him.”[20])

They don’t even stop their wrongful antics when God intervenes.

God knew all of this would happen, but He doesn’t intervene.  Why?  Because He uses “all” circumstances for good, and He know which kind of circumstances will bring or project the good best.

Remember that even though God did not stop it, He did limit it by sending the Romans.  God is in equal control of all people, those who love Him as well as those who don’t.

c. His plea (37-39)

(1) How he astonished the Captain (37)

37 Then (with the soldiers preventing the mob from pursuing Paul up the steps to the barracks) as Paul was about to be led into the barracks (having remained silent thus far), he (respectfully) said to the commander (Lysias [liss-ee-iss]), “May I speak (may I say something) to you?”

He replied (with surprise), “Can you speak Greek? (Those who spoke fluent Greek were associated with those who were cultured, educated and civil.  So in his surprise, Lysias asked)

(2) How he assured the Captain (38-39)

38 Are you not the Egyptian[21] who some time ago stirred up a rebellion (against Romans and Jews friendly with Rome) and led the four thousand assassins (terrorists who stabbed their victims as they mingled with the crowds escaping) out into the wilderness?”

39 But Paul said, “I am a Jew (not an Egyptian) from Tarsus, in Cilicia, a citizen (a Roman citizen and not a terrorist) of no mean (insignificant) city; (being the capital of that Roman Province, complete with a cultural center and university) and I implore (I plead with) you, permit me to speak to the people (please allow me to address the mob).”

B. Rescued from the turmoil (21:40-22:30)

  1. Paul and his countrymen (21:40-23:23)

a. He had their instant attention (21:40-22:2)

(1) With his hand (40)

40 So when he (Lysias [liss-ee-iss]) had given him permission (to address the mob), Paul stood on the stairs (that led into the citadel Antonia) and motioned with his hand to the people (to quiet down and give him their attention). And when there was a great (remarkable, you could hear a pin drop) silence, he spoke to them in the Hebrew (Aramaic) language, (which Lysias probably didn’t understand, but still did not stop Paul from) saying,

Principles we can learn from our passage:

  1. Did you notice that the mob followed the soldiers taking Paul, crying, “Away with him!” v. 36. Isn’t it incredible (and scary) when we see how easy it is to overcome good people and ventures simply by creating a lot of noise and anger, (or fear)?  

We see the same dynamic used against our Lord Jesus Christ as the mob cried “Crucify Him, crucify Him!”  Nobody could say just what terrible thing Jesus had done, but they felt justified in condemning Him and thinking the worst about Him.  They wanted him out of their world, just as they want Paul out of their world as well.  Praise the Lord for John 16:33 – These things I have spoken to you, that in Me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome (prevailed over) the world.”

Matthew Henry says concerning Paul: “Though the chief captain had put him under such an [undesirable] suspicion, that he was that Egyptian, he kept his temper, did not break out into any passionate exclamations against the times he lived in or the men he had to do with, did not render railing for railing, but mildly denied the charge, and owned what he was.”[22]

2. It’s interesting that the world, the Romans, were more gracious and objective with Paul, that his fellow Jews were.  Having received the OK to speak would certainly have filled Paul with more strength and courage knowing that he had permission to speak rather than trying to force his voice through the Romans objections.

3. The second thing we can learn here revolves around Romans 12:18 – If it is possible, as much as depends on you, live peaceably with all men.

Lysias [liss-ee-iss] was the man with all the earthly power and authority in his hands.  Paul treated him with the respect that was due him.  If Lysias had refused Paul’s request, I believe he would have honored it believing God was in charge of his answer.

4. Proverbs 18:13 tells us, “He who answers a matter before he hears it, it is folly and shame to him.”

We need to be very careful about joining in a cause on hearsay.  We need to step back and put in the work involved to find out the truth about the situation first. Lies and gossip are issues we have no business being a part of. (Snopes.com)

5. We will see in the next chapter that Paul didn’t use his opportunity to speak to reprimand the mob or to justify himself.  He will use it to testify of the gospel of Jesus the Messiah and His kingdom.

I want to conclude with this testimony of Katie Davis, concerning being is dangerous and threatening situations.

“People from my first home say I’m brave. They tell me I’m strong. They pat me on the back and say, ‘Way to go. Good job.’ But the truth is, I am not really very brave; I am not really very strong; and I am not doing anything spectacular. I am simply doing what God has called me to do as a person who follows Him. He said to feed His sheep and He said to care for ‘the least of these,’ so that’s what I’m doing, with the help of a lot people who make it possible and in the company of those who make my life worth living” 
…“I am much more afraid of remaining comfortable. Matthew 10:28 tells us not to fear things that can destroy the body but things that can destroy the soul.” ― Katie J. Davis, Kisses from Katie: A Story of Relentless Love and Redemption

[1] Newman, B. M., & Nida, E. A. (1972). A handbook on the Acts of the Apostles (p. 399). New York: United Bible Societies.

[2] MacArthur, J. F., Jr. (1994). Acts (p. 326). Chicago: Moody Press.

[3] Henry, M. (1994). Matthew Henry’s commentary on the whole Bible: complete and unabridged in one volume (p. 2161). Peabody: Hendrickson.

[4] Henry, M. (1994). Matthew Henry’s commentary on the whole Bible: complete and unabridged in one volume (p. 2161). Peabody: Hendrickson.

[5] Kistemaker, S. J., & Hendriksen, W. (1953–2001). Exposition of the Acts of the Apostles (Vol. 17, p. 757). Grand Rapids: Baker Book House.

[6] 1001 More Humourous Illustrations For Public Speaking, Michael Hodgin, p. 312

[7] Preacher’s Outline and Sermon Bible – Commentary – The Preacher’s Outline & Sermon Bible – Acts.

[8] Henry, M. (1994). Matthew Henry’s commentary on the whole Bible: complete and unabridged in one volume (p. 2162). Peabody: Hendrickson.

[9] Wiersbe, W. W. (1996). The Bible exposition commentary (Vol. 1, p. 490). Wheaton, IL: Victor Books.

[10] Kistemaker, S. J., & Hendriksen, W. (1953–2001). Exposition of the Acts of the Apostles (Vol. 17, p. 759). Grand Rapids: Baker Book House.

[11] Barton, B. B., & Osborne, G. R. (1999). Acts (p. 363). Wheaton, IL: Tyndale House.

[12] MacArthur, J. F., Jr. (1994). Acts (p. 326). Chicago: Moody Press.

[13] Wiersbe, W. W. (1996). The Bible exposition commentary (Vol. 1, p. 491). Wheaton, IL: Victor Books.

[14] Outline from, Exploring Acts, Vol. 2, John Phillips, p.195

[15] MacArthur, J. F., Jr. (1994). Acts (p. 326). Chicago: Moody Press.

[16] Wiersbe, W. W. (1996). The Bible exposition commentary (Vol. 1, p. 491). Wheaton, IL: Victor Books.

[17] Henry, M. (1994). Matthew Henry’s commentary on the whole Bible: complete and unabridged in one volume (p. 2163). Peabody: Hendrickson.

[18] MacArthur, J. F., Jr. (1994). Acts (p. 326). Chicago: Moody Press.

[19] Kistemaker, S. J., & Hendriksen, W. (1953–2001). Exposition of the Acts of the Apostles (Vol. 17, p. 771). Grand Rapids: Baker Book House.

[20] Newman, B. M., & Nida, E. A. (1972). A handbook on the Acts of the Apostles (p. 417). New York: United Bible Societies.

[21] The Egyptian was a false prophet who some years earlier led a group of his followers to the Mount of Olives. He proclaimed that the walls of Jerusalem would fall at his command and that the Romans would be driven out. Before that prophecy could come to pass, however, Roman troops led by Governor Felix arrived on the scene. They attacked the Egyptian and his followers and routed them. Several hundred were killed or captured and the rest (including the Egyptian) vanished.  (MacArthur, J. F., Jr. (1994). Acts (p. 326). Chicago: Moody Press.)

[22] Henry, M. (1994). Matthew Henry’s commentary on the whole Bible: complete and unabridged in one volume (p. 2164). Peabody: Hendrickson.