The Acts of the Apostles Acts 21 – Paul Travels To Jerusalem. (Conclusion of Third Journey) Sunday – February 17, 2019

Paul travels to Jerusalem (21:1-16): Cos, Rhodes, Patara, South of Cyprus, Tyre, Ptolemais, Caesarea Philip. Acts 8:40 (AD 34). The present date is around 58 AD. Agabus. Acts 11:27 Then to Jerusalem.

Paul in Jerusalem (21:17-26): The brethren “received us gladly” (21:17). NOTE: Romans 15:30-31 James, most likely the Lord’s brother, apparently was one of the elders (21:18; cf. Acts 15). Paul rehearsed all the good that the Gentiles received in Macedonia and Achaia by the gospel message (cf. Acts 15). When the elders heard these things, they “glorified God” (21:20). It is most probable that Paul has now delivered the Gentile funds (Acts 24:17) to the elders of Jerusalem. The elders now inform Paul of the troubles that await him in Jerusalem. There were many Jews assembled for Pentecost. “Thousands” (21:20) of these Jews were believers; “and they are zealous for the law” (Law of Moses) (20:20b). cf. Acts 15; Galatians 2

Judaizing Christians: Problem in Jerusalem: The Jewish Christians had been “informed” of Paul “… that thou teachest all the Jews who are among the Gentiles to forsake Moses, telling them not to circumcise their children neither to walk after the customs.” (20:21) Judaizing Christians: Against Peter. (11:1ff) Against Paul. (15) Teaching of Paul: Galatians 5:6; 1 Corinthians 7:19; Romans 14; 1 Corinthians 9:20ff Similar accusations brought against Stephen by the Jews. Acts 6:13ff

Elders’ Suggestion To Paul: Acts 21:23ff cf. Numbers 6 Consistent application: Acts 21:25, “As touching the Gentiles that have believed” cf. Acts 15:22 Paul had taught. Galatians 5:4; Galatians 2:11ff; Galatians 3:26ff The Law is fulfilled. Romans 7:4-6; 10:4; cf. Ephesians 2; Colossians 2 Solution: Romans 14; 1 Corinthians 7:19; 9:20-23 Paul had circumcised Timothy. Acts 16:3