Acts 22:18
Arabic SAB (الكتاب الشريف)
وَرَأَيْتُهُ فَقَالَ لِي: ’أَسْرِعْ، اُخْرُجْ مِنَ الْقُدْسِ حَالًا، لِأَنَّهُمْ لَنْ يَقْبَلُوا شَهَادَتَكَ عَنِّي.‘
What Does This Mean?
In this verse from Acts, Jesus is speaking to Paul and tells him to leave Jerusalem quickly because the people there won't accept his message about Jesus. It's a warning for Paul's safety.
Explained for Children
Imagine you're playing hide-and-seek with your friends in a big park. Suddenly, your friend whispers that you should run to another part of the park because some kids might not like you hiding nearby. That's kind of what happened here: Jesus told Paul he needed to leave Jerusalem quickly because people there wouldn't accept his story about Jesus.
Historical Background
This verse is from the Book of Acts, written by Luke around 60-70 AD. It describes events in early Christianity when Paul was spreading the message of Jesus. The audience includes both Jewish and Gentile converts to Christianity. At this time, there were significant tensions between various groups within Jerusalem.
Living It Out Today
Today, if you're trying to share your beliefs or ideas with a group that is resistant, it can be wise to step back for safety and find more receptive audiences elsewhere. For example, if you've been trying to convince a toxic workplace about the importance of mental health days without success, it might be better to look for a supportive environment where such ideas are more accepted.
Topics
faithmissionary workperseverancewitnessingobedience to God's command
Related Verses
Frequently Asked Questions
Why was Jesus telling Paul to leave Jerusalem so urgent?
Jesus knew that Paul would be in danger if he stayed, as the people in Jerusalem were not ready to accept his message about Jesus. This urgency ensured Paul's safety and allowed him to spread his testimony elsewhere.
What does this teach us about sharing our faith?
This teaches that sometimes we need to be strategic about where and how we share our beliefs. When we face hostility or resistance, it may be wise to move on and find more receptive audiences for the message.
Can you give an example of when someone might need to heed a warning like this?
Someone working in a highly prejudiced community where their beliefs are not accepted could face danger. In such cases, it would be wise to listen to warnings and perhaps move to another environment where they can safely share their message.
How does Acts 22:18 fit into Paul's life?
This verse is part of Paul’s larger journey as a missionary. It shows his obedience to God, even when it means leaving behind familiar places for the sake of spreading the gospel in safer and more receptive areas.