How can we ensure our actions align with God's will, per Acts 21:22? Background to Acts 21:22 “Acts 21:22: ‘What then is to be done? They will certainly hear that you have come.’” Paul’s arrival in Jerusalem raised concerns among the believers. James and the elders wanted Paul to act wisely so rumor-filled misunderstandings would not hinder the gospel. Their question—“What then is to be done?”—invites every disciple to consider how to ensure each decision reflects God’s will. Key Principles for Aligning Action with God’s Will • Stay rooted in the written Word ‑ Psalm 119:105—“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.” ‑ Every choice must be measured against clear Scripture. If God forbids it, the conversation ends; if He commands it, obedience begins. • Seek godly counsel ‑ Proverbs 11:14—“In an abundance of counselors there is victory.” ‑ Paul humbly listened to Jerusalem’s elders. Wise voices help us spot blind spots and confirm next steps. • Examine motives before the Lord ‑ Proverbs 16:2—“All a man’s ways are pure in his own eyes, but his motives are weighed out by the LORD.” ‑ Ask: Am I pursuing God’s glory or personal comfort, reputation, or gain? • Value unity without compromise ‑ Romans 14:19—“So then, let us pursue what leads to peace and to mutual edification.” ‑ Paul’s willingness to sponsor the Nazirite vow (Acts 21:23-26) protected Jewish believers from stumbling while never altering the gospel of grace. • Act in humble courage ‑ Acts 21:13-14—Paul’s friends pleaded, but he answered, “I am ready not only to be bound, but even to die in Jerusalem for the name of the Lord Jesus.” ‑ Aligning with God’s will may invite criticism or danger; faithfulness outweighs comfort. • Rely on the Spirit’s guidance ‑ Galatians 5:16—“Walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh.” ‑ Continual surrender keeps us sensitive when the Spirit says “Go,” “Wait,” or “No.” A Simple Alignment Checklist 1. Does Scripture permit or command this step? (2 Timothy 3:16-17) 2. Have I prayed and sensed the Spirit’s peace? (Philippians 4:6-7) 3. Have trusted believers affirmed the direction? (Acts 15:28) 4. Will the action promote Christ’s honor and others’ good? (Colossians 3:17) 5. Am I willing to accept the outcome, whatever it costs? (Luke 9:23) Encouraging Takeaway Like Paul, we live in a world of rumors, pressures, and conflicting advice. Yet the same God who guided the apostle stands ready to guide us. By rooting every decision in Scripture, inviting Spirit-led counsel, and choosing unity over self-promotion, we can move forward with the calm assurance that our actions echo God’s will. |
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