Paul in Jerusalem

Paul in Jerusalem

Acts 21:24-40

Paul arrives in Jerusalem and helps four Jewish men complete their Nazirite vows to show he respects Jewish customs. This act is costly, costing Paul about €4560.

Despite his efforts, Jews from Asia falsely accuse Paul of bringing Gentiles into the temple, inciting a violent mob.

The mob seizes Paul, drags him from the temple, and shuts the doors. The temple leadership rejects the truth Paul brings.

Roman soldiers from the nearby Antonia Fortress intervene just in time to save Paul from being killed.

The commander binds Paul and tries to learn what caused the riot, but the crowd is chaotic and contradictory.

Paul is mistaken for a notorious Egyptian rebel leader. He clarifies his identity as a Jew from Tarsus and asks to address the crowd.

Speaking in Hebrew, Paul prepares to deliver a message to the Jewish crowd during the feast of Pentecost, an opportunity to preach to Jews from across the world.

Key Lessons:

Regular Bible study is essential to discerning the truth and guarding against false prophets.

Avoid making assumptions about others; seek understanding first (Proverbs 18:13, 14:29; Matthew 7:3–5).

Paul demonstrated respect and friendship by honoring Jewish customs, even at personal cost.

Riots against the truth have historical precedence, seen also in Jesus’s trial.

Perseverance in faith is vital; Paul continued despite hardship, and we should too—trusting that God will support us through trials.

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