Here in Acts are the final chapters dedicated to Paul's final trip to Jerusalem and his final persecution by the Jews that lead him to appeal to Rome.

What I learned...

1. About God: OK, here's an odd one to wrestle with — "Through the Spirit they urged Paul not to go to Jerusalem" Acts 21:4. Also, the prophet Agabus said, "The Holy Spirit says, 'in this way the Jewish leaders in Jerusalem will find the owner of this belt will hand him over to the Gentiles'" Acts 21:11. Wast the Spirit "urging" Paul not to go? If so, did he resist the Spirit? Paul seems to be making the selfless decision, "Why are you weeping breaking my heart? I am ready not only to be down, but also to die in Jerusalem for the name of the Lord Jesus" Acts 21:13. Perhaps God willed for Paul to go to Jerusalem (which would ultimately place him in Rome), but He was refining Paul's resolve throught the warnings issued by Spirit-filled Christians. 

2. About NT Christianity: The church was not looking for trouble or persecution, in fact, they tried to avoid whenever possible (Acts 21:12). However, they never compromised on bold preaching in order to avoid trouble. Thus, trouble came their way.

3. DWIS (Do What It Says): It's been a conviction before and so it is again - share my testimony with people (not just invitations to church services). BTW, I'm writing this one day late due to a great trip to Denver and I had the opportunity to share my testimony with the man next to me on the plane. It was blessed by God. We shared phone numbers and he was eager to connect to disciples in his area.