Paul, formerly Saul, who had tracked down and even help put CHRISTians to death, was returning to Jerusalem a wanted man! Not wanted to preach Christ to the people, but because he was preaching Christ to the people!Now when we heard these things, both we and those from that place pleaded with him not to go up to Jerusalem. Then Paul answered, “What do you mean by weeping and breaking my heart? For I am ready not only to be bound, but also todie at Jerusalem for the name of the Lord Jesus.” So when he would not be persuaded, we ceased, saying, “The will of the Lord be done.” (Acts 21:12-14)
Paul would be facing the old Paul, facing the people who knew and preferred Saul. However, Paul would now be embracing Christ, preaching grace, peace, and forgiveness. He offered reconciliation to God through Christ Jesus to any and all who would come . . . even Gentiles!
He knew his time was up. Many tried to convince him not to go to Jerusalem. They prophesied that he would be bound, jailed and eventually die. All true! Yet he knew facing the old "me" and embracing Christ, despite the challenges ahead! Paul was ready!
Are we ready to do the same?
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