Acts 21:14

"Then Paul answered, “What are you doing, weeping and breaking my heart? For I am ready not only to be bound, but also to die at Jerusalem for the name of the Lord Jesus.”"

Key Reflection

Paul's words in Acts 21:14 reflect a deep sense of purpose and resolve, indicating that he is prepared to face whatever comes, including death, for the sake of Christ. In first-century Jewish culture, where public displays of emotion were often seen as weak or unmanly, Paul’s emotional response—expressed through his weeping and acknowledgment of distress—would have underscored the gravity and personal commitment involved in his mission. His readiness to be bound or die highlights the sacrificial nature of his witness to Jesus, a message that resonated deeply with both Jews and Gentiles.

From the Scholars: Barnes' Notes

Verse 14. Would not be persuaded. To remain. He was resolved to go. We ceased. We ceased remonstrating with him, and urging him to remain. The will of the Lord be done. They were now assured that it was the will of God that he should go. And they were now ready to submit to that will. This is an instance and an evidence of true piety. It was the expression of a wish, that whatever God might judge to be necessary for the advancement of his cause might take place, even though it should be attended with many trials. They commended their friend to the protection of God, confident that whatever should occur would be right. Compare Mt 6:10; 26:42.

Related Verses

More from Acts 21

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41

Go deeper with Bible.talk - your AI Bible study companion