Acts 21:1-16

Because God has sometimes ordained our suffering for his glory, we must be willing to suffer.

Main Points: In light of the crucifixion of Christ, suffering can be…

1.      Predicted

2.      Grieved

3.      Embraced

Sermon Discussion Questions

1.      Read Acts 21:1 - 21:16. What is the main point of this passage of Scripture?

2.      Read Acts 9:23-25, 14:5-7, 17:6-10, 17:13-14, and 20:3. Why do you think in Paul didn’t listen to the warnings about going to Jerusalem and escape danger (see 21:13)?

3.      Consider v. 4 and v. 12. Have people ever sought to dissuade you from doing something that you knew the Lord was calling you to do? Explain.

4.      What did the church in Caesarea mean when they said “Let the will of the Lord be done” in v. 14? How is this different than what they were expressing in v. 12? Have you ever had a time when you were won over to the Lord’s will on something? Tell us about it. What was that change of heart like? Is there something that you think you need to be won over to the Lord’s will on now? Explain.

5.      Look at 20:37 and 21:13. There is a lot of weeping going on in these chapters of Acts. Why are departures so difficult in life? What have been some difficult departures/farewells you have had to face? How do we consider those painful times biblically? How do we find comfort in the midst of painful farewells?

6.      What was the purpose of God communicating to Paul about his painful trials ahead in Jerusalem? If God told you that if you stayed in Portland there would be painful trials ahead, would you assume that he is trying to get you to move? Why or why not?

7.      How is God calling you to respond to this message from Acts 21:1-21:16?