johnmarkharris.net

Acts 21:13 “Then Paul replied, ‘What are you doing, weeping and breaking my heart? For I am ready not only to be bound but also to die in Jerusalem for the name of the Lord Jesus.'”

click here for today’s passage

vv. 1-6: Paul travels to Tyre, where disciples warn him not to go to Jerusalem.

vv. 7-14: In Caesarea, Agabus prophesies Paul’s arrest; Paul insists on going.

vv. 15-16: Paul arrives in Jerusalem, welcomed by believers.

vv. 17-26: He reports to the church, joins a purification rite to ease Jewish tensions.

vv. 27-36: Jews from Asia incite a mob; Paul is beaten and arrested by Romans.

Acts 21 shows Paul’s resolve to face arrest in Jerusalem for Christ, despite warnings, leading to his capture.

click here for the 2025 reading plan

Acts 20:24 “But I consider my life of no value to myself; my purpose is to finish my course and the ministry I received from the Lord Jesus, to testify to the gospel of God’s grace.”

click here for today’s passage

vv. 1-6: Paul encourages believers in Macedonia and Greece, then heads to Troas.

vv. 7-12: In Troas, Paul preaches late; Eutychus falls, dies, and is revived.

vv. 13-16: Paul sails toward Jerusalem, eager to reach it by Pentecost.

vv. 17-27: Paul tells Ephesian elders he’s bound for hardship but committed to his mission.

vv. 28-35: He warns of false teachers, urges vigilance, and cites his hardworking example.

vv. 36-38: Tearful farewell as the elders pray with Paul.

Acts 20 reveals Paul’s dedication to his calling, encouraging leaders and facing his fate with resolve.

click here for the 2025 reading plan

Acts 19:17 “This became known to everyone who lived in Ephesus, both Jews and Greeks. Then fear fell on all of them, and the name of the Lord Jesus was held in high esteem.”

click here for today’s passage

vv. 1-7: Paul baptizes John’s disciples in Ephesus, who receive the Holy Spirit.

vv. 8-10: Paul teaches in the synagogue and a lecture hall for two years; the word spreads.

vv. 11-12: God works miracles through Paul, healing via his handkerchiefs.

vv. 13-17: Jewish exorcists fail; Jesus’ name is magnified as fear and faith grow.

vv. 18-20: Converts burn sorcery books; the gospel prevails mightily.

vv. 21-41: A riot erupts over Artemis worship; officials calm it, affirming Paul’s impact.

Acts 19 depicts the gospel’s powerful advance in Ephesus, overcoming magic and idolatry through miracles and repentance.

click here for the 2025 reading plan