November 17, 2024
DAILY BIBLE READING – Acts Chapter 21
1 And it came to pass, that after we were gotten from them, and had launched, we came with a straight course unto Coos, and the day following unto Rhodes, and from thence unto Patara:
2 And finding a ship sailing over unto Phenicia, we went aboard, and set forth.
3 Now when we had discovered Cyprus, we left it on the left hand, and sailed into Syria, and landed at Tyre: for there the ship was to unlade her burden.
4 And finding disciples, we tarried there seven days: who said to Paul through the Spirit, that he should not go up to Jerusalem.
5 And when we had accomplished those days, we departed and went our way; and they all brought us on our way, with wives and children, till we were out of the city: and we kneeled down on the shore, and prayed.
6 And when we had taken our leave one of another, we took ship; and they returned home again.
7 And when we had finished our course from Tyre, we came to Ptolemais, and saluted the brethren, and abode with them one day.
8 And the next day we that were of Paul’s company departed, and came unto Caesarea: and we entered into the house of Philip the evangelist, which was one of the seven; and abode with him.
9 And the same man had four daughters, virgins, which did prophesy.
10 And as we tarried there many days, there came down from Judaea a certain prophet, named Agabus.
11 And when he was come unto us, he took Paul’s girdle, and bound his own hands and feet, and said, Thus saith the Holy Ghost, So shall the Jews at Jerusalem bind the man that owneth this girdle, and shall deliver him into the hands of the Gentiles.
12 And when we heard these things, both we, and they of that place, besought him not to go up to Jerusalem.
13 Then Paul answered, What mean ye to weep and to break mine heart? for I am ready not to be bound only, but also to die at Jerusalem for the name of the Lord Jesus.
14 And when he would not be persuaded, we ceased, saying, The will of the Lord be done.
15 And after those days we took up our carriages, and went up to Jerusalem.
16 There went with us also certain of the disciples of Caesarea, and brought with them one Mnason of Cyprus, an old disciple, with whom we should lodge.
17 And when we were come to Jerusalem, the brethren received us gladly.
18 And the day following Paul went in with us unto James; and all the elders were present.
19 And when he had saluted them, he declared particularly what things God had wrought among the Gentiles by his ministry.
20 And when they heard it, they glorified the Lord, and said unto him, Thou seest, brother, how many thousands of Jews there are which believe; and they are all zealous of the law:
21 And they are informed of thee, that thou teachest all the Jews which are among the Gentiles to forsake Moses, saying that they ought not to circumcise their children, neither to walk after the customs.
22 What is it therefore? the multitude must needs come together: for they will hear that thou art come.
23 Do therefore this that we say to thee: We have four men which have a vow on them;
24 Them take, and purify thyself with them, and be at charges with them, that they may shave their heads: and all may know that those things, whereof they were informed concerning thee, are nothing; but that thou thyself also walkest orderly, and keepest the law.
25 As touching the Gentiles which believe, we have written and concluded that they observe no such thing, save only that they keep themselves from things offered to idols, and from blood, and from strangled, and from fornication.
26 Then Paul took the men, and the next day purifying himself with them entered into the temple, to signify the accomplishment of the days of purification, until that an offering should be offered for every one of them.
27 And when the seven days were almost ended, the Jews which were of Asia, when they saw him in the temple, stirred up all the people, and laid hands on him,
28 Crying out, Men of Israel, help: This is the man, that teacheth all men every where against the people, and the law, and this place: and further brought Greeks also into the temple, and hath polluted this holy place.
29 (For they had seen before with him in the city Trophimus an Ephesian, whom they supposed that Paul had brought into the temple.)
30 And all the city was moved, and the people ran together: and they took Paul, and drew him out of the temple: and forthwith the doors were shut.
31 And as they went about to kill him, tidings came unto the chief captain of the band, that all Jerusalem was in an uproar.
32 Who immediately took soldiers and centurions, and ran down unto them: and when they saw the chief captain and the soldiers, they left beating of Paul.
33 Then the chief captain came near, and took him, and commanded him to be bound with two chains; and demanded who he was, and what he had done.
34 And some cried one thing, some another, among the multitude: and when he could not know the certainty for the tumult, he commanded him to be carried into the castle.
35 And when he came upon the stairs, so it was, that he was borne of the soldiers for the violence of the people.
36 For the multitude of the people followed after, crying, Away with him.
37 And as Paul was to be led into the castle, he said unto the chief captain, May I speak unto thee? Who said, Canst thou speak Greek?
38 Art not thou that Egyptian, which before these days madest an uproar, and leddest out into the wilderness four thousand men that were murderers?
39 But Paul said, I am a man which am a Jew of Tarsus, a city in Cilicia, a citizen of no mean city: and, I beseech thee, suffer me to speak unto the people.
40 And when he had given him licence, Paul stood on the stairs, and beckoned with the hand unto the people. And when there was made a great silence, he spake unto them in the Hebrew tongue, saying,
King James Version. Public Domain
Commentary
Introduction
Acts Chapter 21 depicts the final stage of Paul’s journey to Jerusalem. It is a chapter filled with tension and turning points, showcasing the Apostle’s courage and dedication. Paul travels from Miletus through Caesarea to Jerusalem, where he is warmly received by the believers there. Despite repeated warnings of impending danger, Paul remains determined to follow his calling. The chapter highlights the challenges Paul faces in his ministry, including misunderstandings, slanders, and ultimately his arrest. It stands as a powerful testimony of his faithfulness to the Gospel.
Commentary
The chapter emphasizes Paul’s central role as an ambassador of the Gospel while simultaneously highlighting the tensions between his message and Jewish traditions. The journey to Jerusalem is marked by heartfelt encounters with believers who encourage him and bless him for the upcoming challenges. Particularly noteworthy is the prophetic warning from Agabus, which does not deter Paul from continuing his path.
In Jerusalem, Paul is both welcomed and opposed. Misunderstandings about his teachings reveal the tensions between the young church and traditional Jewish laws. By participating in a vow, Paul attempts to build bridges and clarify misunderstandings about his stance on the Law. However, his efforts are sabotaged by Jewish opponents who accuse him of breaking the Law and desecrating the temple.
Paul’s arrest marks a turning point. The agitated crowd and the intervention of Roman soldiers highlight the political and religious volatility of his mission. Despite the violence, Paul remains steadfast and requests to speak to the crowd. This scene demonstrates his courage and determination to proclaim the Gospel even under adverse circumstances.
Summary
Acts Chapter 21 describes Paul’s journey from Miletus to Jerusalem, his interactions with believers, and his eventual arrest. On his way to Jerusalem, Paul stops in Tyre, where believers warn him not to enter the city. Despite these warnings, he continues his journey and encounters the prophet Agabus in Caesarea, who prophesies his forthcoming suffering. In Jerusalem, Paul is warmly received by James and the elders, who urge him to take a vow to clarify misunderstandings about his position on the Law.
The situation escalates when Paul is accused by Jews from Asia of defiling the Law and the temple. An enraged crowd attempts to kill him before Roman soldiers intervene and arrest him. Despite the violence, Paul remains calm and asks to speak to the crowd. The chapter concludes with the preparations for his speech, which he delivers in the next episode. It is a chapter that highlights Paul’s dedication and bravery in the face of persecution and misunderstandings.
WEEKLY SPIRIT OF PROPHECY READING – Ellen White | The Desire of Ages
Chapter 76—Judas
Read online here
Commentary
Introduction
Chapter 76 on Judas depicts the tragic story of a man who, despite his closeness to Jesus Christ and his privileged position among the Twelve, experienced the deepest fall. The text shows Judas’ initial enthusiasm for the Lord, his gradual surrender to greed, and his betrayal, which became the epitome of doom. His story is not only a tale of betrayal but also a serious warning about the danger of misusing divine gifts and opportunities.
Commentary
The story of Judas is a shocking example of how clinging to sin can render proximity to Jesus fruitless. Judas was called by Jesus and equated with the other disciples, even entrusted with the responsibility of treasurer. Despite all the miracles he saw and the words he heard, he did not allow himself to be completely changed by Christ. His love for money and his pride prevailed.
Especially striking is Judas’ apparent dedication, while he internally harbored doubts and resentment. His betrayal did not begin with handing over Jesus for thirty pieces of silver, but with small decisions that fueled his greed. The story illustrates how an unresolved weakness can become a destructive force.
Judas’ final desperate attempt to undo the consequences of his betrayal shows no true remorse but rather fear of the consequences. His tragic realization that it was “too late” underscores the seriousness of decisions that shape our hearts and determine our lives.
Summary
Chapter 76 traces the life and fall of Judas, from his calling by Jesus to his betrayal and tragic death. Judas began as a committed disciple who followed Jesus and heard his message. However, his love for money and his pride prevented him from fully surrendering to Christ. These weaknesses ultimately led him to betray Jesus for thirty pieces of silver.
Although Judas had numerous opportunities to repent, he remained trapped in his pride and greed. Even when Jesus revealed his betrayal at the Last Supper, he did not change his course. His attempt to return the money showed no genuine remorse, only fear of damnation. His life ended in despair and suicide.
The story of Judas is a serious admonition to keep the heart with God and not to be led by unresolved sins. It shows how a seemingly small weakness, if left unchecked, can lead to catastrophic consequences.
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