Highlights in Acts-Chapter 21
You probably recall that we said that Paul and his companions stayed with Philip, the Evangelist, in his home. We are informed that Philip had four virgin daughters that prophesied. After these girls, there are no others spoken of in the New Testament who had this gift. Perhaps the Holy Spirit mentions this because it must be a testimony of a Godly upbringing. There is no indication that they used it with men. In fact, during their stay, "….there came down from Judea a certain prophet, named Agabus." (From Verse 10). He did an unusual thing. He took Paul's girdle, bound his own hands and feet, and delivered a message from the Holy Spirit. This is what he shared: "….So shall the Jews at Jerusalem bind the man that owneth this girdle, and shall deliver him into the hands of the Gentiles." (From Verse 11). Luke, and the others there, urged Paul not to go. His response was what might be expected of a man of God, such as Paul. "Then Paul answered, 'What mean ye to weep and to break mine heart? for I am ready not to be bound only, but also to die at Jerusalem for the Name of the Lord Jesus'" (Verse 13). Seeing that he would not be persuaded, they stopped trying. They said, "….The will of the Lord be done." (From Verse 14). This should be the concern of every true believer. Selah! God had told Paul that he would go through suffering. Conscious of God's will, he was determined to follow it, no matter the cost. He even did this when Christian friends, who undoubtedly meant well, tried to stop him. What an example! God, give us the grace to be that firm in our commitment to your will. Ron