Current plan to visit Jerusalem (v 22-24)

The structure of Paul’s message to the Ephesian elders is as follows: (1) Past ministry in Ephesus (v 18-21). (2) Current plan to visit Jerusalem (v 22-24). (3) Future responsibilities of the elders of the Ephesian church (v 25-31). (4) Closing words (v 32-35). This time, we will focus on (2) Current plan to visit Jerusalem (v 22-24). “And now, behold, bound by the Spirit, I am on my way to Jerusalem, not knowing what will happen to me there, except that the Holy Spirit solemnly testifies to me in every city, saying that chains and afflictions await me.” (1) Paul’s current situation also serves as a lesson for the elders: (a) Paul is presently on his way to Jerusalem. (b) He desires to arrive in Jerusalem by Pentecost to deliver the contributions from the Gentile churches. (c) Paul was confident that this was the will of God. (2) Let’s compare different translations: (a) “Bound by Spirit” (NASB2020). (b) “Bound in the Spirit” (ASV). (c) “Compelled by the Spirit” (NIV). (d) “Constrained by the Spirit” (ESV). These translations show that Paul was being urged by the Holy Spirit. (3) Paul said, “Not knowing what will happen to me there.” (a) He had a sense that trouble would arise. (b) It is likely that his arrest by the Jews had already been prophesied. (4) Furthermore, Paul said, “Chains and afflictions await me.” (a) This is a revelation from the Holy Spirit (through prophets). (b) The Holy Spirit is not forbidding Paul from going to Jerusalem but is merely warning him of the dangers that await (ref. Rom. 15:30-31). “But I do not consider my life of any account as dear to myself, so that I may finish my course and the ministry which I received from the Lord Jesus, to testify solemnly of the gospel of God’s grace.” Paul desired to live faithfully to the Lord Jesus rather than prioritizing his own safety. The goal of life is to finish the course set before us. Let us meditate on Philippians 1:20-21: “According to my eager expectation and hope, that I will not be put to shame in anything, but that with all boldness, Christ will even now, as always, be exalted in my body, whether by life or by death. For to me, to live is Christ, and to die is gain.”