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Host: Larsen B. Plyler
Episode: 130: Acts 21:27–22:29
Date: November 2, 2025
Theme: Paul's Arrest, Defense, and the Broader Clash Between Early Christianity and Jewish Law

Episode Overview

In this episode, Larsen B. Plyler delves into Acts 21:27–22:29, focusing on Paul’s tumultuous return to Jerusalem, his arrest at the temple, and his compelling defense before a hostile crowd. The study investigates the tension between Jewish traditionalists and the burgeoning Christian message—highlighting Paul’s nuanced approach regarding the Mosaic Law, his dramatic conversion narrative, and the complexities of Roman citizenship. The episode is both a historical and theological exploration of faith, obedience, and the challenges of spreading the Gospel amidst misunderstanding and prejudice.

Key Discussion Points and Insights

1. Background: Paul’s Return to Jerusalem

• (04:42–09:25)
  Larsen recaps Paul’s journey back to Jerusalem following his third missionary journey. Despite warnings and prophecies of danger, Paul expresses his willingness to suffer—even die—for Christ.

Quote:
“I’m ready not only to be bound… but I’m ready to die for the sake of the kingdom, for the sake of the Gospel, in the name of Jesus Christ.” (07:00)

• The Jerusalem elders express concern about rumors that Paul teaches Jews to forsake Mosaic traditions. While the Law is fulfilled, continuing some practices for cultural or evangelistic purposes is not condemned.

2. The Incident at the Temple: Misunderstandings and Mob Violence

• (09:26–20:54)
  Paul participates in purification rituals to demonstrate respect for Jewish customs, hoping to dispel suspicions.

Quote:
“Paul does not seem to have any issue with observing the law… especially in circumstances where it’s going to help people come to an understanding of him and especially an understanding of the Gospel.” (14:38)

• A group of Jews from Asia accuse Paul of defiling the temple by allegedly bringing a Gentile (Trophimus) into forbidden areas. This assumption, based on prejudice rather than fact, incites a riot.

Quote:
“…They make a bad assumption based on their prejudice, based on their preconceived notion.” (16:05)

• Roman troops intervene, rescuing Paul from the mob and arresting him, intending to restore order.

3. Paul’s Defense: Building Common Ground

• (20:55–33:11)
  Paul requests permission to speak and addresses the crowd in Hebrew, which immediately captures their attention and quiets them.

Quote:
“When they heard that he was addressing them in the Hebrew language, they became even quieter.” (23:55)

• He identifies with his audience, sharing his background as a Jew strictly educated under Gamaliel, and his former zealous persecution of “the Way.”

Quote:
“I am a Jew…having been instructed at the feet of Gamaliel according to the strictness of the law…being zealous for God, just as you all are today.” (24:26)

• Paul recounts his conversion: the blinding light on the Damascus road, Jesus’ confrontation (“…why are you persecuting me?”), and his commissioning by Ananias—a devout Jew respected by all.

Notable Insight:
Jesus so closely identifies with his disciples that persecuting them is persecuting Him directly. (27:08)

4. Theological Insight: Baptism and “Calling on the Name of the Lord”

• (33:12–38:34)
  Paul describes Ananias’ instructions:

“Rise up and be baptized and wash away your sins, calling on his name.” (32:50)

• Larsen connects this to Acts 2 and 1 Peter 3, emphasizing that calling on the Lord involves trust, obedience, and baptism—not mere verbal appeal.

Quote:
“Calling upon the Lord’s name is not just calling out to him or just saying a prayer. Rather, calling upon the name of the Lord is trusting him and committing our care to him…” (35:10)

5. Crisis Point: The Crowd’s Reaction to Paul’s Mission to the Gentiles

• (38:35–43:40)
  Paul recalls his vision in the Jerusalem temple, where God commands him to leave because his testimony would not be accepted. God’s plan is for Paul to go to the Gentiles.
• Up until this point, the crowd listens. But as soon as Paul mentions being sent to the Gentiles, the crowd erupts in fury.

“They raised their voices and said, ‘Away with such a fellow from the earth, for he should not be allowed to live!’” (41:24)

6. Paul Asserts His Roman Citizenship

• (43:41–46:40)
  The Roman commander prepares to flog Paul to get to the truth. Paul asserts his rights as a Roman citizen, stunning the officials and sparing himself from unlawful torture.

Quote:
“Is it lawful for you to flog a man who is a Roman and uncondemned?” (44:50)

• The commander, who bought his citizenship at great cost, is humbled when Paul reveals he was born a citizen. The officials immediately withdraw in fear of repercussions.
• The commander convenes the Jewish council for further investigation.

Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

• “I am ready not only to be bound, not only go to prison, but I’m ready to die for the sake of the kingdom, for the sake of the Gospel, in the name of Jesus Christ.” (07:00)
• “Paul does not seem to have any issue with observing the law… especially in circumstances where it’s going to help people come to an understanding.” (14:38)
• “They make a bad assumption based on their prejudice, based on their preconceived notion.” (16:05)
• “I am Jesus the Nazarene whom you are persecuting.” (25:20, quoting Acts 22:8)
• “Calling upon the name of the Lord is trusting him and committing our care to him, leaning on him, depending on him and his authority.” (35:10)
• “Is it lawful for you to flog a man who is a Roman and uncondemned?” (44:50)

Timestamps for Key Segments

• Paul’s Return & Context: 04:42–09:25
• Jerusalem Elders’ Advice & Jewish Rumors: 09:26–12:59
• The Temple Incident & Riot: 13:00–20:54
• Paul Addresses the Commander & The Crowd: 21:00–24:00
• Paul’s Defense & Jewish Credentials: 24:01–27:07
• The Damascus Road Conversion: 27:08–30:44
• Ananias & Baptism Explained: 30:45–36:20
• Paul’s Vision in the Temple: 36:21–41:00
• The Crowd’s Outrage: 41:01–43:40
• Paul Asserts Citizenship: 43:41–46:40

Structure and Flow

Larsen’s teaching is pastoral and grounded, marked by a determination to remain faithful to scripture’s text and context. He models careful exegesis, often pausing to make practical and theological applications, especially around misunderstanding, prejudice, and the essence of faith in Christ.

Summary Takeaways

• Paul’s strategy in Jerusalem reflects a careful balance of cultural sensitivity without compromising truth.
• His defense is not just personal but is intended to bridge the gap between the old Law and the new Gospel.
• Baptism and genuine surrender to Jesus are central to ‘calling on the name of the Lord’.
• Roman citizenship highlights the practical protections, but ultimately, Paul relies on God’s commission and authority.
• The Gospel’s extension to Gentiles remains a deep rupture for some, showing early church tensions that continue to have relevance.

Next episode will address Paul’s statement before the Jewish council in Acts 23.