Definition: And finding a ship sailing over unto Phenicia, we went aboard, and set forth.

Explanation: Okay, let's break down this verse from Acts 21:2: “And finding a ship sailing over unto Phenicia, we went aboard, and set forth.” Basically, it means: "We discovered a ship heading towards Phenicia. We decided to go on board it and then started traveling." Let's unpack it a little further: “And finding…” – This is an important part. It suggests that something happened while they were looking out at the sea. “…a ship sailing over unto Phenicia” - Phenicia was a city located on the coast of Asia, known for its trade and customs. So, this describes a ship traveling towards it. “We went aboard…” – They chose to get on board that ship. “…and set forth.” - This means they began moving forward – sailing away from where they were before. Context is key: This verse is part of a larger story in Acts, and it’s often interpreted as a pivotal moment of faith and action. It tells us that God was working through the disciples. They were looking for an opportunity to do something good and follow God's will. The ship being heading towards Phenicia signifies a potential opportunity to spread the gospel (the good news) or to help those in need. In short, it’s a simple story of discovery and purposeful action. --- Do you want me to: Explain another Bible verse? Give you more context about this specific verse?

Definition: And when they heard [it], they glorified the Lord, and said unto him, Thou seest, brother, how many thousands of Jews there are which believe; and they are all zealous of the law:

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Acts 21:20. It's a really important passage about the Jewish people and their response to a miraculous event. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Story: A Miracle Happens: Before this verse, there was a large crowd of Jewish people – likely those who had been fleeing from Roman persecution – gathered at the edge of the city. They were praying and lamenting that they weren't enough to be saved. A Storm & A Voice: Suddenly, a huge storm appears in the sky. As it rages, God speaks through a voice – it’s a booming, powerful sound. The Revelation: This voice reveals that there are thousands of Jewish people who have genuinely come to believe in Jesus Christ. They're not just murmuring or praying; they're actively believing and eagerly following the law of God. What Does It Mean? Glorified the Lord: “Glorified” means to praise and honor God. The people are showing their reverence and worshiping him for what he has done. “Thou seest, brother, how many thousands…” : This is a very direct question from the voice. It’s like saying, "Brother, can you see this?" or “Can you realize how many people believe?” “…which believe…” : This refers to the Jewish people who have come to faith in Jesus Christ. “…and they are all zealous of the law:” This is the key part! “Zealous” means very eager and enthusiastic, almost desperate to follow God’s rules. The fact that all of them are zealous suggests a deep commitment to following God's laws. Overall Meaning: The verse describes a moment of profound revelation – a powerful sign that God is actively working in the lives of His people. It's a testament to the power of faith and the desire to follow God’s law, even when facing hardship. It suggests that God is using this event to draw more people into his kingdom. In short, it’s a story about a miraculous sign revealing a massive outpouring of faith in Jesus Christ. --- Do you want me to: Explain another part of the verse? Connect this verse to a larger biblical theme (like repentance or salvation)?

Definition: And they are informed of thee, that thou teachest all the Jews which are among the Gentiles to forsake Moses, saying that they ought not to circumcise [their] children, neither to walk after the customs.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Acts 21:21. It’s a really important passage about Paul and his ministry in Rome. Here's what it means, explained simply: The Basic Story: Paul is traveling through a city and is speaking to the Jewish people who are living among Gentiles – meaning they’re not Jewish anymore. He’s telling them that he’s teaching them a new way of believing, one that doesn’t rely on the old laws of circumcision. He’s essentially saying, “This new belief is about letting go of certain traditions and customs.” What Paul Says Specifically: “And they are informed of thee, that thou teachest all the Jews which are among the Gentiles to forsake Moses, saying that they ought not to circumcise [their] children, neither to walk after the customs.” Let’s unpack that: "They are informed of thee..." – This means Paul is sharing this information with the people he’s speaking to. "...that thou teachest all the Jews which are among the Gentiles to forsake Moses..." – He's telling them that he (Paul) is teaching a different way of believing, and specifically, he's telling them to stop believing in Moses as a special figure or law. He’s saying they should reject the idea that Moses was incredibly important and that his laws are still relevant. "...saying that they ought not to circumcise [their] children..." – This is the core of the message. He's telling them not to circumcise their children. Circumcision was a ritual practiced on Jewish boys as a sign of God’s covenant with Abraham. Paul is saying, “Don’t do this! Don’t practice this tradition.” "...neither to walk after the customs." – This means they shouldn't follow the traditions and practices that were in place under Moses, especially the laws about how to behave and what to think. What it Means Overall: Paul is essentially challenging a fundamental belief system within the Jewish community. He’s advocating for a way of living that doesn’t rely on ancient religious laws and tradition. He's trying to introduce a new understanding of faith, emphasizing personal relationship with God rather than solely following rules set by Moses. Why it’s Important: This verse is significant because it sets the stage for Paul’s later arguments about his own identity as a true Jew and his goal of establishing a new church based on love and righteousness, not just obedience to laws. It's a crucial moment in understanding how Paul transitioned from being a Jewish missionary to a leader of believers. --- Do you want me to: Explain this verse further with an analogy? Discuss the context of this passage (when did it happen, what was happening at the time)? Talk about the significance of Paul's actions in Rome?

Definition: What is it therefore? the multitude must needs come together: for they will hear that thou art come.

Explanation: Okay, let's break down that verse from Acts 21:22: “What is therefore, the multitude must need come together: for they will hear that thou art come?” Here’s a simple explanation in easy terms: Basically, it means: "The crowd needs to gather." – This refers to a group of people gathering. “Because they need to know you've arrived.” – This is the key part. The verse is emphasizing that they (the listeners) are waiting for you to arrive and be seen. Let’s unpack it a bit: Acts 21:21 describes the event: In Acts 21:21, Paul is telling the prisoners that he will be speaking to them. This is a crucial moment – he's about to reveal his identity and purpose. The focus is on the audience: The verse highlights that it’s not just any crowd; it’s the listeners (the people who were present). It's a specific group of people Paul needs to be seen by. In short, it’s a call for people to gather together to witness your arrival and recognize you. It's a powerful statement of importance and anticipation. Do you want me to explain any part of this verse in more detail? For example, would you like to know: Why was this message so important? What does this verse suggest about Paul’s intentions?

Definition: Do therefore this that we say to thee: We have four men which have a vow on them;

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Acts 21:23. It's a really important and slightly mysterious passage! Here’s the explanation in simple terms: The Basic Idea: This verse is about a leader (likely Peter) telling a man – likely a prisoner – that they have a special, significant vow or commitment to them. Let’s unpack it word by word: “Do therefore this…” : This is a command from Peter. He's telling the prisoner something important. “…we have four men…” : This identifies the people involved – four individuals. “…which have a vow on them” : This is the key part. A “vow” means a commitment, an oath, or a promise. “On them” means these people are bound to something by this promise. Putting it all together: Peter is saying, "We are going to tell you that four men have a special promise or commitment to us. It's important for you to know." Why is this significant? This verse sets the stage for a dramatic event in Acts 21:24, where Peter delivers a powerful message of repentance and forgiveness. It’s a crucial moment because it highlights the importance of trust and commitment – even when things seem difficult. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse? Give you more context about the situation in Acts 21:21-22 (the prisoner's confession)?

Definition: Them take, and purify thyself with them, and be at charges with them, that they may shave [their] heads: and all may know that those things, whereof they were informed concerning thee, are nothing; but [that] thou thyself also walkest orderly, and keepest the law.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Acts 21:24. It's a really important passage about a powerful message of repentance and transformation. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Core Idea: This verse describes a group of Jewish men who were being led to the place where Jesus was hanging. They are essentially taking a symbolic action – shaving their heads – as a sign of remorse and a commitment to change. They're telling each other, “Let’s get clean about this,” and they’re doing it with them . Let’s unpack the details: “Them take, and purify thyself…” : This means they are deliberately removing their hair as a visible sign of acknowledging their guilt and turning away from their wrongdoings. It's a symbolic act of cleansing. “…with them…” : This is key – it’s not happening alone. They’re working together, receiving instruction and support from this group. “Be at charges with them…” : This implies they are being guided and instructed by these men in a specific way. They're being given a task or a set of rules to follow. “…that they may shave [their] heads:” This is the core action – shaving their heads as a mark of repentance and acknowledging their sins. “All may know that those things, whereof they were informed concerning thee, are nothing…” : This is the most important part. It’s saying that everyone who knows about this situation will understand that this act of repentance is meaningless – it doesn't reflect their true state or actions. They’re demonstrating a complete shift in perspective and commitment to righteousness. “…but [that] thou thyself also walkest orderly, and keepest the law.” : This is where it gets deeper. It’s telling them they need to follow a specific standard – to live righteously and be disciplined – just like they are. It’s about living in accordance with God's laws. In essence, this verse is saying: This group of men is acknowledging their guilt and turning away from their wrongdoings through a visible act of repentance. They are demonstrating that they are committed to living a righteous life – that their actions don’t define them, but rather the commitment they make to follow God's will. Why is this important? It’s a powerful example of how genuine remorse and change can be demonstrated through action and adherence to principles. It’s about more than just saying you feel bad – it’s about doing what’s right. --- Do you want me to: Explain this verse in a different way? Give some examples of how this principle applies to real-life situations?

Definition: As touching the Gentiles which believe, we have written [and] concluded that they observe no such thing, save only that they keep themselves from [things] offered to idols, and from blood, and from strangled, and from fornication.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Acts 21:25. It's a really important part of understanding how Paul’s message about Jesus was received in the Roman Empire. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: Basically, Paul is saying that people who believe in Jesus are rejecting practices that are considered wrong and harmful. Let’s unpack each part: “As touching the Gentiles…” – This refers to the Jewish people living in Rome, which was a large and diverse city. It's not just about the Jewish people; it’s about everyone who wasn't fully converted to Christianity yet. “…which believe…” – This means that those who are still following Jewish traditions and practices are being encouraged to reconsider them. “We have written [and] concluded…” - Paul is stating a clear message, likely through his writings. He’s made a definite conclusion about what he believes. “…that they observe no such thing, save only that they keep themselves from…” – This is the core of the message. He's saying that these people are rejecting things like: “things offered to idols” : This means avoiding worship of any gods or idols. It’s about respecting the divine and recognizing God as the ultimate source of everything. “blood” : This refers to ritual blood sacrifices, which were seen as a way for evil spirits to enter the world. “strangled” : This is referencing practices involving death or violence – particularly the practice of crucifixion. “fornication” : This speaks to sexual relationships outside of marriage. “…and from…” - These are the things that Paul condemns. He’s listing them as harmful and unacceptable. So, putting it all together, this verse is a warning about the importance of following Jesus. It's saying that those who believe in Jesus should abandon practices that are considered dangerous, immoral, or contrary to God’s will. It’s urging people to turn away from things that threaten their spiritual well-being and relationship with God. Why is this important? This verse highlights Paul's role as a messenger of good news – he was trying to bring the message of Jesus to a culture that wasn't ready for it. It emphasizes the need for people to be mindful of what they do, because those actions have consequences. Do you want me to: Explain this verse further with an example? Discuss its context within the broader story of Paul’s ministry?

Definition: Then Paul took the men, and the next day purifying himself with them entered into the temple, to signify the accomplishment of the days of purification, until that an offering should be offered for every one of them.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Acts 21:26. It’s a really important passage about Paul’s actions and what he was trying to do. Here's a simple explanation: Basically, Paul is saying: “I want to show that I’ve finished my work in the temple and that it’s complete – it’s ready for something more.” Here’s a more detailed breakdown of what each part means: “Then Paul took the men…” : This tells us Paul was leading a group of people. “…and the next day purifying himself with them…” : He cleansed himself, meaning he washed away any lingering traces of his previous actions or influences. It’s like saying “I’m ready to start fresh.” “…to signify the accomplishment of the days of purification…” : This is the key part. "Days of purification" refers to a time where something was being cleansed and prepared for a bigger purpose. This suggests that Paul’s work in the temple had just finished, and he was preparing it for something even more important. “…until that an offering should be offered for every one of them.” : This means that after he cleaned himself, he wanted to offer something – like a sacrifice or a gift – to show that his work was complete and that he was honoring God. What’s the big picture? Paul was essentially saying, "I've finished my job here, and I want to show that I'm ready to do something even greater.” It shows he was focusing on a bigger purpose than just continuing his work in the temple. Context is important: This verse comes after Paul had been arrested and facing potential punishment for preaching the gospel. It’s a moment of reflection, preparation, and a sign that he's determined to continue his mission. --- Do you want me to explain any part of this verse in more detail? For example, would you like to know: What "days of purification" might have meant in the ancient world? Why is this verse significant for Paul’s story?

Definition: And when the seven days were almost ended, the Jews which were of Asia, when they saw him in the temple, stirred up all the people, and laid hands on him,

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this passage from Acts 21:27. It’s a really significant moment in the story of early Christianity. Here's what it means, explained simply: What's Happening? The Scene: This is happening inside the Jewish Temple in Jerusalem – a very important religious center for Jews. Jesus is Being Brought Forward: Jesus is being brought forward to be examined and tested by the Jewish leaders. The Stirring Up: The word “stirred up” means they were agitated, angry, and perhaps even panicked. They felt threatened and upset about what was happening. What Did They Do? They Laid Hands on Him: This is a strong phrase – it means they actively began to take action against Jesus. They physically touched him. Why Was This Significant? This is a crucial part of the story because it shows: Opposition to Jesus: They were actively trying to stop him from being examined and questioned. It was a challenge to his authority and his message. Early Religious Conflict: This event marked the beginning of a major conflict between Jewish leaders and early Christians, who believed Jesus was the Messiah – God's chosen one – and they weren’t comfortable with his presence in the temple. In short, it's a snapshot of intense religious opposition to Jesus as he began his ministry. Important Note: This passage is often interpreted as a warning about the potential for conflict between different groups who held differing beliefs. It highlights that even in the early days of Christianity, there was significant tension and resistance to new ideas. --- Do you want me to: Explain another Bible verse? Go into more detail about a specific aspect of this passage (like the context of the Temple)?

Definition: Crying out, Men of Israel, help: This is the man, that teacheth all [men] every where against the people, and the law, and this place: and further brought Greeks also into the temple, and hath polluted this holy place.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Acts 21:28. It’s a really important passage about a powerful and disruptive person. Here's what it means in simpler terms: The Core Problem: This verse describes a man named Peter – who was previously a key leader in the early church – who is actively trying to disturb and corrupt the Jewish community. He’s doing this by: Teaching against God's laws: Peter is preaching about things that are forbidden by Jewish law, essentially challenging established religious traditions. Bringing Greeks into the temple: This is a big deal! The Temple was a sacred place for Jews, and bringing Gentiles (non-Jews) into it was considered very bad news. It was seen as an affront to God's authority. Polluting the holy place: Peter is actively trying to ruin the atmosphere of worship and reverence within the temple. Putting it all together – The Meaning: Peter is essentially inviting chaos and disrespect into a space meant for worshiping God. He’s creating division and undermining the very foundations of Jewish faith. The Context - Why is this important? This verse happened immediately after the arrest of Peter and his followers. It highlights a significant challenge to the early church – a leader who was actively working against its principles. It shows that even those who are deeply committed to God's word can sometimes fall into harmful behavior. In short, this verse is about a dangerous trend: someone trying to undermine the faith and traditions of their community through disruptive actions. --- Do you want me to: Explain another Bible verse? Provide more context about the time period it occurred in?