What is the meaning of Acts 21:22? Connecting to the context Paul has arrived in Jerusalem (Acts 21:17). James and the elders rejoice, yet they know the city is tense: “many thousands… are zealous for the Law” (Acts 21:20). Rumors swirl that Paul teaches Jews “to forsake Moses” (v. 21). Into that setting comes our verse. Think of other moments when the church faced possible division—Acts 15:1-2 shows similar concern, and Galatians 2:2 records Paul privately laying out his gospel “for fear that I was running… in vain.” The elders’ question springs from love for unity and a sober reading of the crowd. “What then should we do?” This is a pastoral plea. It recognizes: •Responsibility—leaders must act (James 3:1). •Urgency—delay invites disorder (Proverbs 15:23). •Dependence on wisdom—“If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God” (James 1:5). Cross references show this heart: in Acts 6:3 the apostles sought “men of good reputation” to solve a conflict; in 1 Corinthians 9:19-22 Paul himself adapts “to win the more.” The elders now look for a similarly wise approach. “They will certainly hear” News travels fast. Earlier, nearly the “whole city gathered to hear the word of the Lord” (Acts 13:44). In Thessalonica, enemies cried, “These men… have turned the world upside down” (Acts 17:6). The leaders anticipate: •Guaranteed publicity—Paul’s ministry is known (Romans 15:19). •Possible misunderstanding—false reports already circulate (Acts 21:21). •Heightened emotions—Jerusalem at feast time is packed (Acts 20:16). This is prudence, not fear; Proverbs 22:3 commends seeing danger and taking refuge. “that you have come.” Paul’s very presence is both blessing and flashpoint. God had foretold, “He is a chosen instrument of Mine to carry My name before the Gentiles… and the children of Israel” (Acts 9:15). Each arrival in a city became a gospel opportunity (Acts 17:2-3) yet often sparked opposition (Acts 14:19). Here, the elders aim to harness Paul’s visit for good: •Affirming Jewish believers that the Law is honored (Acts 21:24). •Keeping open doors for evangelism (Colossians 4:3). •Modeling unity between Jew and Gentile (Ephesians 2:14-16). summary Acts 21:22 captures a moment when church leaders balance zeal for truth with pastoral strategy. They ask, “What then should we do?” because action rooted in wisdom preserves unity. They observe, “They will certainly hear,” acknowledging the inevitability of scrutiny. They note, “that you have come,” viewing Paul’s presence as both challenge and opportunity. Together, these phrases teach us to face potential conflicts head-on, seeking solutions that honor the Lord, edify the body, and advance the gospel. |
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