And now, behold, I go bound in the spirit unto Jerusalem, not knowing the things that shall befall me there:

ACTS 20:22KJV
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Acts 20:22 (KJV)

What does Acts 20:22 mean?

Acts 20:22 describes Paul explaining that he is heading to Jerusalem, feeling compelled or constrained by the spirit, even though he does not know what will happen to him there. Paul is expressing a sense of duty or inner urging that drives him forward, despite uncertainty about the future.

Paul is speaking to the elders of the church from Ephesus, gathered in Miletus, as he prepares to leave them. The verse shows Paul’s deep sense of purpose and trust, highlighting that his journey is not based on knowing the outcome but on following what he believes is a spiritual leading. This moment sets the tone for the seriousness and risk of his upcoming journey.

The Greek behind Acts 20:22

  • The word "bound" (δεδεμένος, dedemenos) often means tied up or constrained, and here it suggests Paul feels a strong inner compulsion or obligation from the spirit, not just a casual decision.
  • The word "spirit" (πνεῦμα, pneuma) can mean either the Holy Spirit or Paul’s own spirit. The Greek here leaves room for either interpretation, but the sense is of a deep, inward drive.
  • The phrase "not knowing" (μὴ εἰδώς, mē eidōs) emphasizes Paul’s uncertainty; he is moving forward without knowledge of what will happen, highlighting his faith and courage.

Why Acts 20:22 matters

  • Acts 20:22 clears up the idea that Paul’s journey to Jerusalem was a calculated or safe move; instead, it was a step taken in faith, with real risk and uncertainty.
  • The verse emphasizes that following spiritual conviction does not always come with clear answers or guaranteed safety, but may require trust in the face of the unknown.
  • This verse connects to the larger theme in Acts of Paul’s willingness to face hardship for the sake of his mission, showing his character and commitment to what he believes God is calling him to do.

Where else these words appear

“befall” Greek G4876 · used in 6 verses

  • Luke 9:37 And it came to pass, that on the next day, when they were come down from the hill, much people met him.
  • Luke 22:10 And he said unto them, Behold, when ye are entered into the city, there shall a man meet you, bearing a pitcher of water; follow him into the house where he entereth in.
  • Hebrews 7:1 For this Melchisedec, king of Salem, priest of the most high God, who met Abraham returning from the slaughter of the kings, and blessed him;

“bound” Greek G1210 · used in 41 verses

  • Matthew 12:29 Or else how can one enter into a strong man's house, and spoil his goods, except he first bind the strong man? and then he will spoil his house.
  • Mark 11:4 And they went their way, and found the colt tied by the door without in a place where two ways met; and they loose him.
  • Acts 12:6 And when Herod would have brought him forth, the same night Peter was sleeping between two soldiers, bound with two chains: and the keepers before the door kept the prison.

“Jerusalem” Greek G2419 · used in 80 verses

  • Matthew 23:37 O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, thou that killest the prophets, and stonest them which are sent unto thee, how often would I have gathered thy children together, even as a hen gathereth her chickens under her wings, and ye would not!
  • Luke 24:47 And that repentance and remission of sins should be preached in his name among all nations, beginning at Jerusalem.
  • Acts 15:4 And when they were come to Jerusalem, they were received of the church, and of the apostles and elders, and they declared all things that God had done with them.

“now” Greek G3568 · used in 133 verses

  • Matthew 24:21 For then shall be great tribulation, such as was not since the beginning of the world to this time, no, nor ever shall be.
  • John 21:10 Jesus saith unto them, Bring of the fish which ye have now caught.
  • 2 Corinthians 13:2 I told you before, and foretell you, as if I were present, the second time; and being absent now I write to them which heretofore have sinned, and to all other, that, if I come again, I will not spare: