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

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this incredibly important and slightly mysterious verse from Acts 20:22. It's a really significant moment in the early church’s history! Here’s what it means, explained simply: The Basic Idea: This verse is about Paul’s departure – his move to Jerusalem. But there’s a crucial part that adds depth: he doesn’t know exactly what will happen there. Let's unpack it piece by piece: “And now, behold…” : This immediately sets the stage. It’s a dramatic pause, like a moment of intense thought or anticipation. “…I go bound in the spirit unto Jerusalem…” : This is the core of the verse. "Bound in the spirit" means Paul is being guided and protected by God's power. He’s not just traveling; he’s being led . “To Jerusalem” tells us where he’s headed. “…not knowing the things that shall befall me there:” This is the key part! Paul doesn’t know what challenges, difficulties, or hardships await him in Jerusalem. He's leaving with an open future and a degree of uncertainty. What does this tell us about Paul? Faith & Anticipation: It speaks to his unwavering faith and his sense of being guided by God. He’s trusting that God has a plan for him, even when he doesn't understand it completely. Vulnerability: It also shows Paul’s humility. He recognizes he doesn't have all the answers and is open to God’s will. Focus on the Destination: It emphasizes his commitment to the mission of spreading the Gospel (the good news of Jesus) to Jerusalem, even with an unknown future. Why is this important? This verse is often interpreted as a sign that Paul was experiencing significant hardship in Jerusalem. It’s a foreshadowing of the challenges he would face in the city and ultimately lead him to his death. However, it's also seen as a testament to his unwavering faith and obedience to God’s plan. In short: Paul is leaving Jerusalem, but not knowing exactly what he will experience there. It's a moment of anticipation, trust, and vulnerability – a powerful reminder of the divine guidance in our lives. --- Would you like me to: Explain it in another way? Provide more context about the time period when this verse was written?