Book of Acts - Chapter 21 - Verse 30
Meaning
When Paul entered the temple in Jerusalem, his presence caused a great disturbance among the people. The city was in an uproar, and everyone came running together to see what was happening. The crowd was so agitated that they took hold of Paul and removed him from the temple. As soon as Paul was removed, the doors were quickly shut. This verse highlights the intense emotions and reactions that Paul's presence provoked among the people. The sudden commotion and the swift action of the crowd show the powerful response that Paul's preaching and teachings evoked in the city. It also serves as a demonstration of the conflicts and opposition that Paul faced in his mission to spread the message of Christianity. The verse captures the chaotic and dramatic scene that unfolded in the temple, emphasizing the significance and impact of Paul's actions on the people around him.
Theological Overview
The verse from Acts 21:30 describes a chaotic scene where Paul is forcefully removed from the temple in Jerusalem. The phrase "And all the city was moved" denotes the alarm and commotion spread throughout the city due to this incident. The Greek word used for "moved" in this context can mean stirred up, shaken, or troubled, indicating the intense reaction of the people. The word "ran together" suggests a hurried gathering of the crowd, further emphasizing the frenzied atmosphere. As Paul is taken out of the temple, the doors are immediately shut, signifying a sudden and decisive action taken to quell the disturbance. This verse showcases the opposition and persecution faced by the early Christians, as well as the dramatic events that surrounded their preaching and ministry. It highlights the volatile nature of spreading the message of Jesus Christ in a hostile environment, where believers often faced resistance and hostility.