"When we heard this, we and the people there pleaded with Paul not to go up to Jerusalem. Then Paul answered, “Why are you weeping and breaking my heart? I am ready not only to be bound, but also to die in Jerusalem for the name of the Lord Jesus.” When he would not be dissuaded, we gave up and said, “The Lord’s will be done.”

Acts 21:1-16

Luke describes multiple warnings to Paul about going to Jerusalem, not least the graphic prophecy of Agabus in which he ties his feet and hands to show how Paul will be bound. We might wonder why the Holy Spirit, who ‘compelled’ Paul to go to Jerusalem, also seems to warn him of what awaits him there. Probably the Spirit gave prophetic foresight to the believers, who passed the warning on to Paul—adding their own human opinions to the message.

What is your reaction if being faithful also means putting yourself at risk in some way? This requires spiritual discernment. Missionaries throughout the centuries often went ahead in spite of danger. Polycarp was burned at the stake and said, ‘How can I deny Christ, he has done me no harm?’ These words were repeated by Thomas Cranmer, who designed the Anglican Prayer Book, as he was burned at the command of Queen Mary in Broad Street in Oxford.

Apply

Take time to pray for missionaries who are risking everything to share the love of Jesus.

Closing Prayer

In whatever ways I find myself tested, Father, help me to stand firm in my testimony for Jesus. Give me courage to share about the grace and mercy he offers anyone who comes to him (edited from Encountwer with God).