Acts 18:21

But bade them farewell, saying, I must by all means keep this feast that cometh in Jerusalem: but I will return again unto you, if God will. And he sailed from Ephesus.

But {G235} bade {G657} them {G846} farewell {G657}, saying {G2036}, I {G3165} must {G1163} by all means {G3843} keep {G4160} this feast {G1859} that cometh {G2064} in {G1519} Jerusalem {G2414}: but {G1161} I will return {G344} again {G3825} unto {G4314} you {G5209}, if God {G2316} will {G2309}. And {G2532} he sailed {G321} from {G575} Ephesus {G2181}.

however, in his farewell he said, “God willing, I will come back to you.” Then he set sail from Ephesus.

But as he left, he said, “I will come back to you if God is willing.” And he set sail from Ephesus.

but taking his leave of them, and saying, I will return again unto you if God will, he set sail from Ephesus.

Acts 18:21 captures a pivotal moment in the Apostle Paul's second missionary journey as he departs from Ephesus. This verse reveals Paul's immediate travel plans, his adherence to Jewish custom, and most importantly, his deep reliance on God's sovereign will.

Context

After a significant and fruitful ministry period in Corinth, Paul had sailed to Cenchreae, taken a vow, and then proceeded to Ephesus (Acts 18:18-19). In Ephesus, he briefly engaged with the synagogue, reasoning with the Jews. Though they desired him to stay longer, Paul felt compelled to leave, expressing his intention to travel to Jerusalem for an upcoming feast. This journey marked a transition, concluding a major leg of his missionary work and preparing him for future endeavors.

Key Themes

  • Adherence to Jewish Custom: Paul's decision to "keep this feast that cometh in Jerusalem" highlights his continued connection to his Jewish heritage, even as he was the primary apostle to the Gentiles. This wasn't necessarily a legalistic observance but likely a strategic move to connect with believers in Jerusalem, perhaps to report on his work or deliver an offering, as seen in later chapters (Acts 24:17).
  • Submission to Divine Will: The phrase "if God will" (Greek: ean theos thele) is a profound expression of Paul's humility and dependence on God's providence. Despite having clear plans and intentions, Paul understood that his future movements and success were entirely contingent upon the Lord's approval and guidance. This attitude is a hallmark of biblical faith, recognizing that human plans are secondary to divine purpose.
  • Strategic Planning in Ministry: Paul was a meticulous planner in his missionary efforts, but his plans were always held loosely, subject to God's ultimate direction. This verse showcases a balance between diligent planning and absolute trust in God's sovereignty, a model for Christian service.

Linguistic Insights

The phrase "if God will" translates the Greek ean theos thele (ἐὰν θεὸς θέλῃ). This is not merely a polite idiom but a theological statement affirming God's ultimate control over all circumstances. It mirrors similar expressions found elsewhere in Scripture, emphasizing that life and future endeavors are not guaranteed but are dependent on divine permission. James 4:15 famously echoes this sentiment, admonishing believers to say, "If the Lord will, we shall live, and do this, or that."

Practical Application

Acts 18:21 offers timeless guidance for believers today. It teaches us to:

  • Plan with Prudence, Rely on God: While it is wise to make plans for the future, we must always hold them with an open hand, acknowledging God's overarching control.
  • Cultivate Humility: Recognize that our lives are not solely our own, and our paths are ultimately directed by a sovereign God.
  • Trust in Divine Providence: Even when our plans are interrupted or changed, we can trust that God is working all things together for His good purposes (Romans 8:28).

Reflection

Paul's simple statement, "if God will," encapsulates a profound theological truth about God's sovereignty and man's responsibility. It serves as a powerful reminder that true wisdom lies in aligning our will with God's, trusting Him with every step of our journey, whether in missionary endeavors or daily life.

Note: Commentary was generated by an advanced AI, utilizing a prompt that emphasized Biblical fidelity over bias. We've found these insights to be consistently reliable, yet we always encourage prayerful discernment through the Holy Spirit. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

  • 1 Corinthians 4:19

    But I will come to you shortly, if the Lord will, and will know, not the speech of them which are puffed up, but the power.

  • Romans 15:32

    That I may come unto you with joy by the will of God, and may with you be refreshed.

  • James 4:15

    For that ye [ought] to say, If the Lord will, we shall live, and do this, or that.

  • Hebrews 6:3

    And this will we do, if God permit.

  • Romans 1:10

    Making request, if by any means now at length I might have a prosperous journey by the will of God to come unto you.

  • Acts 20:16

    For Paul had determined to sail by Ephesus, because he would not spend the time in Asia: for he hasted, if it were possible for him, to be at Jerusalem the day of Pentecost.

  • Philippians 2:19

    But I trust in the Lord Jesus to send Timotheus shortly unto you, that I also may be of good comfort, when I know your state.

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