Acts Series Chapter 21: How to Follow God When It Hurts shows Paul’s unwavering obedience to God’s call despite repeated warnings of suffering and imprisonment. He knew hardship awaited in Jerusalem, yet chose faith over fear, showing that true discipleship means trusting God’s plan even when it’s painful. Paul’s courage teaches that following Christ often involves surrender, sacrifice, and a readiness to endure trials to fulfill God’s divine purpose.
Acts Series Chapter 21: How to Follow God When It Hurts
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Scriptures used in this lesson:
Acts 21:4, Acts 20:22, Acts 19:21, Acts 21:5, Acts 21:8, Acts 8:39-40, Acts 21:9, Acts 21:10, Acts 11:27-28, Deuteronomy 18:22, Ephesians 4:11-13, Isaiah 20:2, Acts 21:11, Acts 21:12, Acts 21:13, Acts 9:15-16, Acts 14:22, Amos 3:7, Matthew 16:21-25, Galatians 5:22-24, Acts 21:17, Acts 21:20, Acts 21:21, 1 Corinthians 9:19-20, Acts 21:27-32, Galatians 3:19, Galatians 3:24-25, Romans 8:2, Acts 21:28-30, Acts 21:33,
Acts Series Chapter 21: How to Follow God When It Hurts
Paul’s third missionary journey comes to an end in Acts chapter 21. In our study this week, we’ll look closely at this chapter together.
Paul’s Route and Arrest
Last time, we left Paul speaking with the Ephesian elders at Miletus. From there, he sailed to Rhodes and then to Patara. He passed by Cyprus and continued on to Syria.
In Syria, he stopped in Tyre, where believers ministered to him. From there, he traveled to Caesarea, staying at Philip’s home. Finally, Paul arrived in Jerusalem. It is in Jerusalem that he will be arrested, marking the close of his third missionary journey.
My Outline:
Ministry at Tyre Acts 20:1-6
Meeting at Caesarea Acts 20:7-14
Mission Jerusalem Acts 15-40
Acts Series Chapter 21: How to Follow God When It Hurts
Ministry at Tyre (Acts 20:1-6)
Throughout his travels, Paul is repeatedly warned that suffering and imprisonment await him. One prophet even tells him not to go to Jerusalem, but Paul still chooses to go. We’ll also see another prophet, Agabus, who acts out a symbolic prophecy of what will happen to Paul once he arrives in Jerusalem. Even Paul’s closest friends beg him not to go, but his response is firm—he says he is ready.
Paul’s Resolve and Spiritual Readiness
Paul and his companions make the journey to Jerusalem. Once there, Paul participates in a Mosaic ritual to appease the Jews. Yet it doesn’t work, because ritualism never brings real change. When he is seen in the temple, the Jews attack and beat him, intent on killing him. But the deeper question is this—do they genuinely want to kill Paul, or are they trying to destroy his ministry? The truth is, you cannot separate the man from his ministry. To destroy one, they must destroy the other. Just as they sought to stop the ministry of Jesus, they sought to kill Him.
Acts Series Chapter 21: How to Follow God When It Hurts
Now, we look at Paul’s ministry at Tyre in verses 1 through 6. They sailed into Syria and landed, marking Paul’s return to the region of Jerusalem. There he meets disciples who, through the Spirit, speak to him about what lies ahead.
Let’s read verse 4 in your Bible: Acts 21:4.
Acts 21:4
4 And finding disciples, we tarried there seven days: who said to Paul through the Spirit, that he should not go up to Jerusalem.
Acts Series Chapter 21: How to Follow God When It Hurts
Responding to Spiritual Advice
When Paul and his companions arrived, they found some disciples and stayed with them for seven days. During that time, these believers spoke to Paul through the Spirit, warning him not to go to Jerusalem. That raises a question—what exactly did they say, and was Paul wrong to go anyway? It seems confusing.
Paul clearly knew what awaited him. He understood that imprisonment and suffering were ahead. Yet he continued forward. There was no doubt in his mind about what he was walking into.
Turn back to chapter 20 and let’s look at verse 22.
Acts 20:22
22 And now, behold, I go bound in the spirit unto Jerusalem, not knowing the things that shall befall me there:
Acts Series Chapter 21: How to Follow God When It Hurts
Paul’s Resolve and Commissioning
Paul knew all along what was waiting for him. In Acts 20:22, he said he was bound in the Spirit to go to Jerusalem, even though he didn’t know exactly what would happen there. The only thing he knew was that the Holy Spirit kept warning him in every city that bonds and afflictions were waiting.
So yes, Paul understood what he was getting into. Yet even when a prophet later told him not to go, he continued forward. He believed the Spirit was leading him, despite the danger ahead.
Look at chapter 19, verse 21.
Acts 19:21
21 After these things were ended, Paul purposed in the spirit, when he had passed through Macedonia and Achaia, to go to Jerusalem, saying, After I have been there, I must also see Rome.
Acts Series Chapter 21: How to Follow God When It Hurts
The Necessity of Divine Calling
Paul had determined in the Spirit that he would go to Jerusalem after traveling through Macedonia and Achaia. But going to Jerusalem wasn’t the end. There was something beyond it, just as there was something beyond the cross for Jesus. The natural mind only sees the suffering, but faith sees what’s beyond. Paul said that after he went to Jerusalem, he must also go to Rome. That word “must” is the same word used in John 3, where Jesus says, “You must be born again.” It was settled in heaven. Paul didn’t choose it on his own. He was compelled by divine purpose.
Many people question why the prophet told him not to go and whether Paul was wrong to continue. But Paul’s resolve was clear. As they left Tyre, the whole group—men, wives, and children—walked out together to see them off. That stands as a reminder that the kingdom of God is not limited by age or gender. There is no male or female, no slave or free, no Jew or Gentile. Everyone belongs in Christ.
Acts Series Chapter 21: How to Follow God When It Hurts
Acts 21:5
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.
What really stood out here was that the children came along. As they knelt on the beach to pray, I began to reflect on that moment. Often, adults come together to pray while the children go off to play. But how different it could be if our children learned to pray by watching us. If we teach them to pray, praise, and worship from an early age, they won’t struggle with it later in life.
Teach them now to love the Lord, to dance, and to worship freely while they are young. That’s why it touched me so deeply to see that they all knelt down together and prayed. It made me wonder—what were the children doing as they prayed?
Acts Series Chapter 21: How to Follow God When It Hurts
Meeting at Caesarea.
Acts 21:8
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.
Meeting at Caesarea (Acts 20:7-14)
The missionary group traveling is now called Paul’s Company. This began many years ago in Acts 13:4, when the Holy Spirit said to set apart Barnabas and Saul. At first, the journey was led by Barnabas and Saul. Then Saul became known as Paul, and it was Paul and Barnabas. Over time, it became simply Paul and his company.
Acts Series Chapter 21: How to Follow God When It Hurts
This change shows how leadership and influence grow. Paul never truly fit in at Jerusalem. He understood grace deeply and did not cling to traditions or legalism. He taught against these things. His group followed him in rejecting old customs and the law. Now, it is Paul and his company, and I want to see all of us in that story. It should be you and your company, too—all those you’ve taught, nurtured, and led in the Lord.
I also noticed that there was a group of leaders, or a plurality of elders. Timothy and Silas were part of this, along with many elders from churches Paul had started. But every group needs one central leader. Paul was that leader. Many elders can help, but someone must be responsible and lead. Without clear responsibility, things fall apart.
Turning to Philip the Evangelist in verse 8, we last saw him in Acts chapter 8. Philip was one of seven chosen in Acts chapter 6, what we often call deacons. He left after persecution started and went to Samaria, where he did great evangelistic work. He also preached to the Ethiopian eunuch, baptized him, and then was suddenly taken away by the Spirit. Philip later appears again in Caesarea, where he has a home.
Acts Series Chapter 21: How to Follow God When It Hurts
Philip’s Daughters Who Prophesy
Acts 8:39-40
39 And when they were come up out of the water, the Spirit of the Lord caught away Philip, that the eunuch saw him no more: and he went on his way rejoicing.
40 But Philip was found at Azotus: and passing through he preached in all the cities, till he came to Caesarea.
Acts 21:9
9 And the same man had four daughters, virgins, which did prophesy.
So Philip has four daughters who prophesy. Now, my thought as I saw this is, is it New Testament? Is it scriptural for women to function and flow in prophetic utterances? It is? Well, what are our women waiting for? What are you all waiting on? Is it scriptural?
Acts Series Chapter 21: How to Follow God When It Hurts
The Prophet Agabus and Prophetic Signs
Now then, the next verse, we meet a prophet—well, we don’t meet him, but we re-meet him—a prophet named Agabus.
Acts 21:10
10 And as we tarried there many days, there came down from Judaea a certain prophet, named Agabus.
Agabus was a prophet we first met in Acts 11:27-30. Back then, Agabus prophesied that a famine would come. That prophecy came true just as he said it would. If you look back at Acts chapter 11, you’ll see how Agabus accurately predicted the famine. We are reminded of his reliability and the importance of prophetic voices in the early church. Agabus played a significant part in God’s plan, both in warning the believers and encouraging them to act.
Acts Series Chapter 21: How to Follow God When It Hurts
Acts 11:27-28
27 And in these days came prophets from Jerusalem unto Antioch.
28 And there stood up one of them named Agabus, and signified by the Spirit that there should be great dearth throughout all the world: which came to pass in the days of Claudius Caesar.
During those days, a prophet named Agabus came from Jerusalem to Antioch. He declared by the Spirit that a great famine would happen throughout the world. This famine did occur during the reign of Claudius Caesar.
So, did Agabus’ prophecy come true? Yes, it did. This shows the reliability of Agabus as a prophet. It raises an important question—how do you know someone is a genuine prophet? How do you know when their words should be respected and taken seriously? To answer that, we need to look at what the book of Deuteronomy says about prophets and their words.
Acts Series Chapter 21: How to Follow God When It Hurts
Deuteronomy 18:22
22 When a prophet speaketh in the name of the LORD, if the thing follow not, nor come to pass, that is the thing which the LORD hath not spoken, but the prophet hath spoken it presumptuously: thou shalt not be afraid of him.
Moses explains to the people how to recognize a prophet, especially a false one. In Deuteronomy, he says that if a prophet speaks in the Lord’s name but what he says does not happen, then the Lord did not send him. That prophet spoke boldly and presumptuously. The people should not fear him.
But if everything a prophet says comes true, you should respect that person. You should take his words seriously. Looking back at Agabus in Acts 11, his prophecy came true, so Agabus should be respected as a true prophet.
Acts Series Chapter 21: How to Follow God When It Hurts
Now, Philip had four daughters who also prophesied. So why send Agabus to prophesy to Paul when these daughters were there?
Prophetic Office vs. Gift of Prophecy
There is a principle here—there is the gift of prophecy, and there is the office of the prophet. In 1 Corinthians 12, the gift of prophecy is described. This is what Philip’s daughters had. But Agabus held the office of prophet, as mentioned in Ephesians 4:11. It’s important to understand the difference. The gift is available to many, but the office is a specific calling and position. Let’s look at Ephesians 4:11 to see this distinction more clearly.
Ephesians 4:11-13
11 And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets, and some, evangelists, and some, pastors and teachers;
12 For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ:
13 Till we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ:
Acts Series Chapter 21: How to Follow God When It Hurts
Ephesians 4:11 explains the office of the prophet. There are several offices or roles given by God: apostle, prophet, evangelist, pastor, and teacher. Each office is a gift from Jesus Christ to serve His church. These leaders are given for the perfecting of the saints, for the work of ministry, and to build up the body of Christ. Their purpose is to help everyone grow toward maturity in faith.
The gift of prophecy is different from the office of prophet. The gift of prophecy works like tongues or interpretation—it is a supernatural utterance given to encourage and build up the church. Many believers can have the gift of prophecy. But not everyone who prophesies holds the office of prophet. Every true prophet will use the gift of prophecy, but not everyone who uses the gift is a prophet in the office described in Ephesians 4:11.
For example, Agabus is a true prophet; he holds the office. Philip’s daughters had the gift of prophecy, a manifestation of the Spirit described in 1 Corinthians 12. Just because someone gives a message from the Lord to encourage the church does not mean they are a prophet in the sense of Ephesians 4:11.
It’s essential to know the difference. When a true prophet comes, their presence is often intense and unusual. Prophets tend to be unique individuals, and I’ve met several who were distinct and sometimes strange. This seems to be part of how God works through them.
Acts Series Chapter 21: How to Follow God When It Hurts
Agabus is about to deliver a prophecy to Paul in a dramatic presentation. Old Testament prophets often used similar dramatizations to deliver God’s message. For example, Ezekiel shaved off all his hair, divided it into thirds, burned some, chopped some up, threw some to the wind, and hid a bit in his belt. This was a visual illustration of what God was saying.
Ezekiel also dug a hole in the wall of his house and carried out his furniture, as another unusual act to communicate God’s message. In 1 Kings 11:29, the prophet Ahijah met Jeroboam in a field, took off his garment, tore it into 12 pieces, and gave 10 pieces to Jeroboam, saying he would rule over 10 tribes of Israel, while two tribes would go to Rehoboam. These examples show that prophets often behaved in odd ways to make sure their message was clear and memorable.
I want to turn to these other two, Isaiah 20:2.
Acts Series Chapter 21: How to Follow God When It Hurts
Isaiah 20:2
2 At the same time spake the LORD by Isaiah the son of Amoz, saying, Go and loose the sackcloth from off thy loins, and put off thy shoe from thy foot. And he did so, walking naked and barefoot.
Isaiah chapter 20 gives us another example of just how unusual prophets can be. God told Isaiah to take off his sackcloth and shoes and walk around naked and barefoot. Isaiah, who gave some of the most powerful prophecies in scripture—including vivid descriptions of Jesus in chapter 53—had to do this for three years. Imagine walking without shoes or clothes for that long, to be a sign to the people.
God used Isaiah’s odd actions as a sign to Egypt and Ethiopia, predicting that their people would be led away captive in shame and humiliation. It shows that prophets often lived out their messages in painful or unusual ways.
Acts Series Chapter 21: How to Follow God When It Hurts
There’s one more example in Ezekiel chapter 4. God told Ezekiel to build a model of Jerusalem, complete with little armies and battering rams. Ezekiel had to put a siege on his tiny city. Then he was told to lie on his left side for a whole year, and afterward on his right side. God gave him a special diet and instructions for cooking it. Some parts of the directions were so hard that Ezekiel actually protested.
Prophets were unique and often called to do very hard, strange things. Now, consider Agabus. Do you really want to be a prophet, or would you rather bring a word of prophecy, like Philip’s daughters? The point is, when God calls you to the office of prophet, it sets you apart. It’s very different from simply moving in the gift of prophecy. God makes prophets to be different, and it’s a special calling.
Agabus’s Prophecy About Paul
This is what Agabus did. Let’s read it. Verse 11 in the Bible, Acts chapter 21.
Acts Series Chapter 21: How to Follow God When It Hurts
Acts 21:11
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.
When Agabus came to the group, he took Paul’s belt and used it for a dramatic prophecy. He bound his own hands and feet with the belt, showing what would happen to Paul. Then Agabus said, “Thus saith the Holy Ghost, the owner of this belt will be bound by the Jews in Jerusalem and handed over to the Gentiles.”
Agabus used drama to make the message clear, just like prophets did in the Old Testament. His actions weren’t as wild as some earlier examples, but the message was strong. When a real prophet says, “Thus saith the Holy Ghost,” it’s serious—you listen and pay attention.
Acts Series Chapter 21: How to Follow God When It Hurts
Paul and his company knew Agabus. Paul had met him at Antioch in Acts chapter 11, and the others knew him by reputation. When Agabus spoke, people listened and respected what he said. This is how you know a true prophet—when what he says comes true, you trust his words. Agabus had just delivered a vital prophecy to Paul, and the whole group understood it was powerful and real.
And look what it says in verse 12.
Acts 21:12
12 And when we heard these things, both we, and they of that place, besought him not to go up to Jerusalem.
When the group heard Agabus’s prophecy, everyone—both the missionaries and the local believers—tried to persuade Paul not to go to Jerusalem. Until Agabus spoke, they hadn’t made such a strong effort to stop him. The words of a true prophet can have a powerful impact, sometimes making people uncomfortable or afraid.
Acts Series Chapter 21: How to Follow God When It Hurts
True prophets will tell you what they hear from God, even if the message is hard to accept. They speak the truth directly, not always gently. Agabus’s warning for Paul wasn’t filled with comfort or tenderness. He just told Paul the reality—he would be bound and sent to jail.
There will be more prophets, like Agabus, raised up before the coming of the Lord. Prophets often frighten people because their words come from God and are not softened. Even those who love you the most may try to keep you from following God’s path, just like Paul’s friends did. They begged and wept, wanting Paul to avoid Jerusalem. But it was God’s will for Paul to go, despite their fears.
And then the next verse is the verse that we talked about earlier, verse 13.
Acts 21:13
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.
Acts Series Chapter 21: How to Follow God When It Hurts
Paul boldly declared his readiness to face whatever came for Jesus’ sake. Those words—“I am ready”—have stayed with me. I think about Christians today. Many are just focused on being blessed or escaping hardship. Few talk about being ready to suffer, or even to die, for Jesus. Sometimes, we forget that following Christ may mean enduring suffering along the way.
The Necessity of Suffering in Ministry
Let’s look at Acts 9 to understand Paul’s calling better. It’s there, when Paul was knocked down and blinded, that God revealed what his ministry would require. There’s an essential lesson in his story.
And in Acts chapter 9, verses 15 and 16, I want to read it and look at Paul’s calling.
Acts Series Chapter 21: How to Follow God When It Hurts
Acts 9:15-16
15 But the Lord said unto him, Go thy way: for he is a chosen vessel unto me, to bear my name before the Gentiles, and kings, and the children of Israel:
16 For I will shew him how great things he must suffer for my name’s sake.
The Lord spoke to Ananias about Paul, saying that Paul had been chosen to bear His name to the Gentiles, kings, and the people of Israel. In verse 16, Jesus says, “I will show him how much he must suffer for my name.” Notice that word “must”—it’s the same as when Jesus said we “must” be born again and when Paul said he “must” go to Jerusalem. Paul’s calling included suffering.
Jesus made it clear: part of Paul’s ministry was to experience hardship for His sake. Paul later affirmed his readiness, saying he was willing not only to be bound but even to die for Jesus. Yet, suffering isn’t something we talk about much in church. Most churches teach about blessings and comfort, but not about how to handle suffering.
Acts Series Chapter 21: How to Follow God When It Hurts
When challenges come, some get frustrated, leave the church, or even stop giving and supporting the ministry. Many are never taught that God can use suffering for our growth. The Christian world often avoids this topic, focusing only on a “Bless Me Gospel.” Few say what Paul did—“I am ready.” Most hear promises of comfort and prosperity, but not the truth that persecution and hardship are part of the faith. That’s why the message of readiness to suffer is so essential.
Look at verse 22 of Acts 14.
Acts 14:22
22 Confirming the souls of the disciples, and exhorting them to continue in the faith, and that we must through much tribulation enter into the kingdom of God.
Paul taught the believers that they must continue in the faith. He used that same word “must.” You must be born again. Paul must go to Jerusalem. And now, he says, you must enter the Kingdom through much tribulation. Some might say, “No, we’re going to escape all trouble.” But Paul says we must be ready and put on the armor of God to stand in evil days.
Acts Series Chapter 21: How to Follow God When It Hurts
The truth is, we enter God’s Kingdom through trials and hardship. This isn’t something I made up. It’s what scripture teaches. As the end draws near, God is raising up a people strong and mature, equipped with His armor. These people will be able to say, “I am ready,” just as Paul did.
Understanding God’s Will—Not Just Good Intentions
Paul faced many voices telling him not to go to Jerusalem. But it’s essential to see that Agabus, the true prophet, never told him not to go. Agabus only revealed what would happen if Paul went. The other prophets misunderstood God’s message. Sometimes, things that seem bad to us are actually meant for our good, just as Joseph said in Genesis. What others intend for harm, God can use for good in our lives.
Amos 3:7
7 Surely the Lord GOD will do nothing, but he revealeth his secret unto his servants the prophets.
Amos wrote that God does nothing without first telling His prophets. Paul was a prophet himself, and he knew what would happen to him in Jerusalem. God always communicates with His prophets, so Paul wasn’t unaware of his fate.
Acts Series Chapter 21: How to Follow God When It Hurts
The prophets who warned Paul weren’t wrong. They received a valid message from the Lord. But they misunderstood what God intended. Their interpretation was off, not the message itself.
Let’s turn to Matthew 16. There’s an important lesson there. Sometimes, the people who love you the most may try to keep you from God’s will. This makes it necessary to know God’s will for your own life, especially in your walk with Christ. In Matthew 16:13-21, Peter confesses that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of the living God. There is a more profound truth in this passage about understanding and following God’s will, even when others mean well but don’t fully understand.
And then when you go on through that, it says after those things, in verse 21.
Matthew 16:21-25
21 From that time forth began Jesus to shew unto his disciples, how that he must go unto Jerusalem, and suffer many things of the elders and chief priests and scribes, and be killed, and be raised again the third day.
22 Then Peter took him, and began to rebuke him, saying, Be it far from thee, Lord: this shall not be unto thee.
23 But he turned, and said unto Peter, Get thee behind me, Satan: thou art an offence unto me: for thou savourest not the things that be of God, but those that be of men.
24 Then said Jesus unto his disciples, If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me.
25 For whosoever will save his life shall lose it: and whosoever will lose his life for my sake shall find it.
Acts Series Chapter 21: How to Follow God When It Hurts
From that moment on, Jesus began to explain to His disciples that He must go to Jerusalem. He told them He would suffer many things there, be killed, and then rise again on the third day. The word “must” appears again, showing necessity in God’s plan.
Example from Jesus—Suffering in God’s Will
Peter loved Jesus, but when Jesus spoke about suffering, Peter tried to stop Him. He told Jesus this must not happen. But Jesus rebuked Peter and called out the wrong thinking. Jesus said, “You don’t have in mind the things of God, but the things of men.”
Jesus then taught an important lesson: anyone who wants to follow Him must deny themselves, take up their cross, and follow Him. Those who try to save their life will lose it, but those who lose their life for Jesus will find it. Paul was living this out. He was taking up his cross, willing to suffer and even die for Christ. He declared, “I am crucified with Christ.” His actions and words showed how deeply he was conformed to the image of Jesus.
Acts Series Chapter 21: How to Follow God When It Hurts
Jesus set His face toward Jerusalem, determined to fulfill God’s will. Paul did exactly the same. He showed by his choices and convictions that the example of Christ was shaping him. This shows us the deep connection between suffering, obedience, and true discipleship. Jesus will return with His rewards, and scripture comes alive when we clearly see these truths.
Think about what would have happened if Jesus hadn’t gone to Jerusalem. Would we be here today as believers? What if Jesus had listened to Peter, or Paul had listened to his friends? Sometimes, people around us try to keep us from obeying God’s call. What if you listened when someone told you not to go to church, or not to follow God’s plan for your life?
When God calls you, you must set your mind and spirit firmly on His will, just as Jesus and Paul did. We need to crucify our personal desires, put them on the cross, and let them die each day. This daily surrender is part of following Christ.
If Paul hadn’t followed God’s leading and gone to Jerusalem, we wouldn’t have many of the New Testament letters he wrote while in prison. Books like Galatians, Ephesians, Philippians, Colossians, 2 Timothy, and Philemon are all prison epistles that came from Paul’s suffering.
Acts Series Chapter 21: How to Follow God When It Hurts
Paul lived as a kingdom man, like Jesus. He wanted to know Christ in the power of His resurrection and in the fellowship of His sufferings. “Conformable” in Philippians means to be made similar or jointly formed with Christ’s death. Paul’s focus was always forward—forgetting what was behind and pressing on to what was ahead, striving toward the prize in Christ.
If you want to be part of the perfect, mature man in Christ, you’ll go through suffering too. To know Jesus in His resurrection, you must also know Him in suffering. Galatians 2:20 says, “I am crucified with Christ, yet I live—not I, but Christ lives in me.” Our new life is for Jesus, who loved us and gave Himself for us. Paul teaches us to follow this same example.
Now, let’s look quickly at Galatians chapter 5. Jesus tells us to take up our cross, lose our lives for Him, and Paul declares, “I am crucified with Christ.” This is also our call—to surrender ourselves and follow Him fully daily.
Acts Series Chapter 21: How to Follow God When It Hurts
Galatians 5:22-24
22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith,
23 Meekness, temperance: against such there is no law.
24 And they that are Christ’s have crucified the flesh with the affections and lusts.
In Galatians 5, Paul talks about the battle between the flesh and the Spirit. He lists the sinful works of the flesh in verses 19 through 21. Then, in verses 22 and 23, he describes the fruit of the Spirit. These are traits that reflect God’s character and nature.
In verse 24, Paul says that those who belong to Christ have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. This doesn’t mean being literally nailed to a cross. It means choosing each day to put aside selfish desires and sinful habits. We take up our cross daily, setting aside our own ways to follow God’s will.
Acts Series Chapter 21: How to Follow God When It Hurts
This is how we come to the place where we can genuinely say, “I am ready—not only to be bound, but also to die for my Lord Jesus.” Many Christians today are focused on escaping difficulties and seeking comfort and blessings. But Paul’s example is clear. He was ready to face suffering for the sake of Christ.
Beware of the “candy-coated” gospel that promises only prosperity, comfort, and success. Jesus did say He would provide for our needs if we seek first the Kingdom of God. But seeking God’s kingdom means surrendering ourselves and being willing to do whatever He asks.
Looking at the world today, it’s easy to see that many are ready only to “fly away”—they’re focused on their own desires. Churches are often filled with jealousy, strife, and confusion from false teachings. But when we look at Paul, we see a man who is ready to suffer and even die for Jesus.
This should move us. Our desire should be to become like Jesus and like Paul—willing to do whatever it takes for God’s purpose. Are we so focused on His will that even those closest to us cannot sway us from what God wants? Are we ready to die for Christ’s purpose if needed?
Finally, after all this, the group says, “The Lord’s will be done.” This is the attitude Jesus had in prayer, and it’s the heart that brings in God’s kingdom. Let’s move forward with this mindset.
Acts Series Chapter 21: How to Follow God When It Hurts
Mission Jerusalem
Acts 21:17
17 And when we were come to Jerusalem, the brethren received us gladly.
I want to share something important about the word “brethren.” It comes from two Greek words, one of which means “womb.” So, brethren are those who come from the same womb—that is, they share not just a father but a mother, too.
We often call people “brother” a bit too loosely. Just having the same father doesn’t make you a true spiritual brother. For example, Abraham had two wives—Sarah and Hagar. He had two sons, Isaac and Ishmael. Both sons had the same father, but they didn’t come from the same mother. Isaac and Ishmael were not truly brothers in the fullest sense.
In another example, Jacob had two wives, Rachel and Leah. Joseph and Benjamin came from Rachel; the other ten came from Leah. These ten persecuted Joseph because he was different, even though they all had the same father.
Acts Series Chapter 21: How to Follow God When It Hurts
In the book of Revelation, we see two women—the true church and Babylon, the religious system. Both claim to be fruitful, but only one truly produces genuine brethren. Brothers are not just people from the same father—they must also come from the same womb, with the same seed.
So, not everyone you call “brother” is truly your spiritual brother. Some have a different spiritual lineage, even if they claim the same Father. This may be a deep concept, but it’s important to understand spiritual relationships.
Now, let’s talk about leadership. In the church, there’s always a plurality of elders—many leaders working together. But among them, there is always one who stands out as the prominent leader. He’s also an elder, but he acts as the first among equals, guiding the others. This helps the church stay unified and well-led.
Paul described his ministry among the Gentiles, or the nations, and spoke of its success. When he brought money collected from all the churches, the leaders in Jerusalem rejoiced. Anyone would celebrate receiving that kind of support.
Acts Series Chapter 21: How to Follow God When It Hurts
Paul’s Message and Grace
However, Paul never truly fit in with Jerusalem’s leaders. They preferred to hold onto their legalistic ways, rituals, and the law of Moses. Paul, on the other hand, received a powerful revelation of grace. Grace is God giving you the strength to do what you cannot do by yourself.
Paul’s message and ministry didn’t match well with the tradition-bound life of Jerusalem. The people there were glad that Paul was called to minister elsewhere, to the Gentiles. This way, he wouldn’t disrupt what they wanted to preserve in Jerusalem—he would go and spread God’s message across the wider world. That was a good thing, as it brought change and hope far beyond Jerusalem.
Here’s the key to this whole passage of Scripture. I want to read Acts 21:20.
Acts Series Chapter 21: How to Follow God When It Hurts
Acts 21:20
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:
This section of Acts is a turning point. In verse 20, the leaders say to Paul, “You see, brother, how many thousands of Jews there are which believe, and they are all zealous for the law.” These Jews were believers—they had trusted in the Lord—but they still held tightly to their religious traditions and Mosaic law.
Every city has its religious people who hang onto rituals, ceremonies, rules, and traditions. Even though they love God, they are passionate about keeping these customs. The leaders are essentially telling Paul, “You can’t teach your message here. Our people won’t accept it.”
Acts Series Chapter 21: How to Follow God When It Hurts
The Amplified Bible says these Jewish believers were enthusiastic about the Mosaic law. They loved God, but they were devoted to ceremonies and old ways. This isn’t just about Paul’s experience; it reveals a pattern throughout the whole Bible. Paul always came up against legalism, rituals, and tradition.
Even now, some believers are fanatical about holding onto old ceremonies, while others, like Paul, are passionate about moving forward into new truths. Being zealous isn’t wrong—it depends on what you’re zealous for. Paul was a fanatic for Jesus. Others were fanatics for Moses.
In spiritual communities, there are always those who resist new ideas to protect their customs. They may be believers, but their passion lies in protecting tradition. That’s what Paul was facing, and it’s a lesson for us today.
The people I’m describing aren’t just people in the past. Believers in Jerusalem deeply loved their religious system. They were just as passionate about preserving their traditions as I am about understanding and teaching the true meaning of Scripture. Many people are devoted to what they’ve always been taught.
Acts Series Chapter 21: How to Follow God When It Hurts
Law-Grace Believers—Mixing Moses and Jesus
The Jewish believers held onto the Mosaic law in one hand and embraced Jesus in the other. Rather than letting go of their rituals, legalisms, and ceremonies, they tried to mix in a little bit of grace from Jesus. It was always more common to add Jesus to Moses than the other way around.
This isn’t just an ancient problem—it’s happening today in the Christian world. Churches want to have Jesus and all His fullness, but still cling to the traditions and rules they’ve always known. Outward behaviors, like dress and speech, are emphasized, while some of Jesus’s teachings are mixed in as it suits them.
So, what we see is law-graced believers: people with Moses in one hand and Jesus in the other. That’s how many churches end up teaching a blend—keeping more of the law than the grace Jesus came to bring. That’s the reality, and it’s crucial for us to understand and address it.
And I like the next thing in verse 21 that I saw.
Acts Series Chapter 21: How to Follow God When It Hurts
Accusations Against Paul
Acts 21:21
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.
Word spread about Paul and what he was teaching, just like stories spread about Joshua and the Israelites crossing the Jordan. The religious leaders heard Paul was teaching Jews among the Gentiles to forsake Moses. Notice, they made a distinction between people—they wanted one gospel for Jews and another for Gentiles. That’s a racialistic approach to faith.
They accused Paul of telling Jewish believers not to circumcise their children and not to follow the old customs of Moses. Was Paul guilty of this? Yes—and so am I, if following Jesus means letting go of old customs and traditions.
Acts Series Chapter 21: How to Follow God When It Hurts
You cannot serve two masters. You cannot mix Moses and Jesus. Your real walk with the Lord should be inward and spiritual, not just outward signs or rituals. Those customs and legalisms keep people from experiencing God’s absolute power. Many want to hang onto traditions and mix them with Jesus, calling it Christianity. But when you examine the Word closely, you see this is just a form of godliness, denying true spiritual power. It becomes an empty religion instead of life in Christ.
Ritualism Never Brings Real Change
When Paul came to town, the leaders had a problem. They didn’t know what to do about him, so they devised a plan. They wanted Paul to go through a Mosaic ritual to prove himself. Paul did it, even though he knew that animal sacrifices and old ceremonies were finished—Jesus had ended them. Scripture makes it clear that outward circumcision means nothing. Paul knew all this, but he went along with the ritual. Did it work? No, rituals never truly transform anyone. Only God’s grace can do that.
Turn to 1 Corinthians 9.
1 Corinthians 9:19-20
19 For though I be free from all men, yet have I made myself servant unto all, that I might gain the more.
20 And unto the Jews I became as a Jew, that I might gain the Jews; to them that are under the law, as under the law, that I might gain them that are under the law;
Acts Series Chapter 21: How to Follow God When It Hurts
Submitting for the Sake of Others
Paul chose to take part in the ritual in Jerusalem for a specific reason. In 1 Corinthians 9:19, Paul explains that although he was free from everyone, he made himself a servant to all so he could reach more people. He said, “To the Jews I became like a Jew to win the Jews. To those under the law, I became as one under the law to win those under the law.” Paul followed this principle—he did things he didn’t personally believe in, just to reach people with the gospel.
Paul didn’t have faith in those rituals, but he participated in them for the sake of others. He wanted to reach both those under the law and those without the law. He became all things to all men so some might be saved. That’s the primary reason he went along with the ceremony.
Another reason is that Paul wanted to show submission to the Jerusalem elders, especially James. Sometimes, we need to demonstrate humility and respect for leadership, even if we disagree or think their customs are outdated or unnecessary.
Acts Series Chapter 21: How to Follow God When It Hurts
So what can we learn from this? The church in Jerusalem mixed Moses and Jesus—traditions and grace. Many churches do the same today. Paul shows us that sometimes it’s necessary to become all things to all people and to be submissive when needed to influence and serve others.
But it’s not easy. We all struggle to let go of our sense of being right. Paul knew the ceremony was pointless, but he did it anyway out of humility and love for unity. We have to ask ourselves—can we do that? Can we surrender our opinions and be submissive for the sake of others? If not, maybe that’s an area we need to grow and strengthen in our own lives.
The Jews laid hands on him. Let’s read verses 27-32.
Paul’s Arrest and Fulfillment of Prophecy
Acts 21:27-32
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.)
Acts Series Chapter 21: How to Follow God When It Hurts
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.
When the seven days of the ritual were almost over, some Jews from Asia saw Paul in the temple and stirred up the crowd. They shouted for help, saying that Paul taught everyone against their people, their laws, and the temple—and accused him of bringing Greeks into God’s holy place.
Paul’s participation in the rituals didn’t change their minds. The traditions didn’t work, and the crowd recognized Paul and seized him.
Acts Series Chapter 21: How to Follow God When It Hurts
Chaos in the Temple
The entire city was thrown into an uproar. People dragged Paul out of the temple and tried to kill him. The chief captain and soldiers arrived just in time to rescue Paul, stopping the attack.
Notice their accusation against Paul. First, they claimed he taught against the people of Israel. But Paul actually taught that all true believers—those inwardly changed by God—are the true Israel of God. He wrote that in Galatians 6:16 and said in Romans 2:28-29 that real Jews are those circumcised in heart. In Romans 9, he explains that true descendants of Abraham are born by God’s promise, just as Isaac was.
Most of the Christian world still sees natural Israel as God’s special people. Many believe that when natural Israel prospers, God’s prophetic plan is fulfilled. Has this thinking really changed much?
Acts Series Chapter 21: How to Follow God When It Hurts
Meaning of Spiritual Accusations
Second, they accused Paul of teaching against the law. Was he guilty? Absolutely. Paul clearly taught in Galatians 3:19 that the law was added later—the ceremonies, traditions, and legalisms weren’t part of God’s original plan. Most Christians think the church was just added to fill a gap when Israel failed, but Paul reveals the truth: the law was extra, not the core. Jesus and His grace are central to God’s plan.
Galatians 3:19
19 Wherefore then serveth the law? It was added because of transgressions, till the seed should come to whom the promise was made; and it was ordained by angels in the hand of a mediator.
Why do we have the law? Scripture says the law was added—it wasn’t the main plan. It was put in place because of transgressions, to guide people until the promised seed would come. Who is that seed? Christ is the primary seed.
Acts Series Chapter 21: How to Follow God When It Hurts
After Christ, those who belong to Him are counted as His seed too. All who come from the same spiritual woman—the church, which is Christ’s bride—are truly united. This is God’s design. When we understand that, everything in Scripture starts to make sense and fit together. It’s about being born into God’s family, connected through Christ and His church.
Look at Galatians 3:24.
Galatians 3:24-25
24 Wherefore the law was our schoolmaster to bring us unto Christ, that we might be justified by faith.
25 But after that faith is come, we are no longer under a schoolmaster.
The law was given as a schoolmaster—a teacher to lead us to Christ so that we could be justified by faith. The law wasn’t the main plan; it was there to guide people until they could find true righteousness in Jesus.
Romans 8:2 explains two important spiritual laws. One is the law of sin and death, which was connected to the law of Moses. The Israelites in the wilderness lived under this law, and it brought death rather than life.
Acts Series Chapter 21: How to Follow God When It Hurts
But there is another law now—the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus. This law brings life and freedom, not condemnation and death. We need to think carefully about which truth we’re following. Sometimes, we’re tempted to stick with old traditions and the law, but God wants us to live by the Spirit, experiencing new life in Christ.
All right. Romans 8:2.
The Law Versus Life in Christ
Romans 8:2
2 For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus hath made me free from the law of sin and death.
Paul says, “The law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus has set me free from the law of sin and death.” That means there are two spiritual laws at work—one brings death, and the other brings life. Which do you want? I choose life, and I hope you do too.
Acts Series Chapter 21: How to Follow God When It Hurts
Now, the third accusation against Paul was that he spoke against the temple—against the holy place. Did Paul do that? Yes, he taught about the difference between physical temples, such as Solomon’s temple and “hiram” temple – the spiritual reality. Paul explained that believers themselves are now the temple of God. The real holy place is not a building, but the hearts and lives of God’s people.
Acts 21:28-30
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.
Acts Series Chapter 21: How to Follow God When It Hurts
The Jews called their temple the holy place, but Paul taught that you are the proper holy place. God’s Spirit dwells in you, not in a building.
However, most Christians still think of church buildings as the “holy place.” People believe that if they act right, God will show up in their building. This attitude hasn’t changed much over time. Many still mix Moses and Jesus. They hold onto rituals and traditions, and view physical places as where God lives. They also keep seeing Israel and the Jews as God’s only chosen people.
When you preach that believers are the true temple, you may face rejection, just like Paul did. People may not physically drag you out or try to hurt you, but they may exclude you with their words. You may be criticized, insulted, or pushed away for preaching the truth.
Paul was arrested, just as Agabus had prophesied. Agabus had shown Paul would be bound—his hands and feet. This prophecy came true, marking a turning point in Paul’s ministry and a lesson for all who boldly follow God’s leading.
Acts Series Chapter 21: How to Follow God When It Hurts
Paul Bound—Prophecy Fulfilled
Acts 21:33
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.
Scripture says Paul was bound with two chains. These were just as Agabus had prophesied—one chain for his hands, one for his feet. The Jews grabbed Paul and delivered him to the Gentiles, fulfilling the dramatic prophecy Agabus had acted out earlier. The words of Agabus, a true prophet, came to pass exactly as promised. Prophets may seem odd, but when they speak from God, you must listen.
The Jews were so violent that the soldiers had to pick Paul up and carry him away to safety. The situation had become extremely dangerous for him.
Acts Series Chapter 21: How to Follow God When It Hurts
The Example of Paul and the Church
Now, let’s compare the church at Jerusalem in Acts chapter 2 with what we see in Acts chapter 21. In Acts 2, the Holy Spirit was poured out, miracles happened, and thousands came to faith. There was power and unity. But by Acts 21, the church had become legalistic. It mixed law and grace, lost focus on the Spirit, and clung to traditions.
Where does the Christian world stand today? Are we closer to the vibrant faith and miracles of Acts 2, or have we become more like the legalistic church of Acts 21? It’s a sobering question. Even more important—where are you? Does your life reflect the Spirit-filled, grace-driven church, or the ritual-filled, law-bound one? May God help us to see where we stand and draw us closer to His truth.
Acts Series Chapter 21 Audio
Acts Series Chapter 21 Audio
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