Appeal to Caesar and the Proclamation of God’s Kingdom (21:17–28:31)

21:17–23:35 Review · Paul’s arrest and imprisonment in Jerusalem:Luke’s account of Paul’s arrival at Jerusalem reflects both the warm welcome Paul receives and the tension that lies behind his reception (21:17–26). First, Luke emphasizes that “the brothers and sisters received [them] warmly” (21:17). As in the past, Paul and his companions go to James and the elders and report to them what God has done among the Gentiles (cf. Acts 14:27). These Jerusalem leaders respond by praising God, thus recognizing that what they have heard are indeed the mighty acts of God (Luke 5:25–26; 7:16; 13:13; 17:15; 18:43; 23:47; Acts 4:21; 11:18).

After such notes of welcome, the Jerusalem leaders then report that the many Jews who are …