Acts 21:37-22:16

Read Acts 21:37-22:16

Helpful Background Information: 

• This account takes place after Paul’s three missionary journeys. In Acts 21, Paul is in Jerusalem where he knew that he would face persecution. In the earlier parts of chapter 21, Paul was arrested because a mob of Jews wanted to kill him. He would stay in this captivity for the rest of his life, traveling from Jerusalem, to Caesarea, then to Rome, where he would stay until he died. 

• Because of the confusion in his arrest, the Roman commander did not know who Paul was. He thought that Paul was an Egyptian insurrectionist who had recently tried to tear down the walls of Jerusalem. This Egyptian claimed to be a God-sent liberator and had managed to escape Roman capture after his failed liberation attempt. Roman-Jewish historian Josephus also recorded this rebellion in his writings of the time. 

• In his address to the mob, Paul took the opportunity to share his testimony with the crowd. In this, he explains further about the character and the actions of Ananias.

Reflection Questions: 

• In this passage, Paul takes the opportunity that could have been used to get out of captivity to share what God had done in his life. What role do testimonies take in spreading the gospel? How can you share your testimony?

• Compare this account of Ananias to the account of the Acts 5:1-11 Ananias. What are some major differences in character between these two?

• Ananias is described in this passage as being a devout man with a good reputation. What role does good character play in the credibility of the gospel? How can you develop your character for the sake of the gospel? How can you ask God to help you in this?