Acts 21:13

KJV

Then Paul answered, What mean ye to weep and to break mine heart? for I am ready not to be bound only, but also to die at Jerusalem for the name of the Lord Jesus.

KJV (with Strong's)

Then {G1161} Paul {G3972} answered {G611}, What {G5101} mean ye {G4160} to weep {G2799} and {G2532} to break {G4919} mine {G3450} heart {G2588}? for {G1063} I {G1473} am {G2192} ready {G2093} not {G3756} to be bound {G1210} only {G3440}, but {G2532} also {G235} to die {G599} at {G1519} Jerusalem {G2419} for {G5228} the name {G3686} of the Lord {G2962} Jesus {G2424}.

Complete Jewish Bible

but Sha’ul answered, “What are you doing, crying and trying to weaken my resolve? I am prepared not only to be tied up, but even to die in Yerushalayim for the name of the Lord Yeshua.”

Berean Standard Bible

Then Paul answered, “Why are you weeping and breaking my heart? I am ready not only to be bound, but also to die in Jerusalem for the name of the Lord Jesus.”

American Standard Version

Then Paul answered, What do ye, weeping and breaking my heart? for I am ready not to be bound only, but also to die at Jerusalem for the name of the Lord Jesus.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Acts 21:13 captures the Apostle Paul's unwavering resolve and profound commitment to Christ in the face of imminent suffering and death in Jerusalem. Despite the tearful pleas of his companions, who feared for his life and sought to dissuade him, Paul declares his readiness to endure imprisonment and even martyrdom for the sake of the Lord Jesus's name, demonstrating a faith that transcends personal comfort and emotional distress.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This powerful declaration by Paul occurs at a pivotal moment in his final journey to Jerusalem, as detailed in [Acts 20](/acts/20 "Acts 20 - Paul's Farewell to the Ephesian Elders") and [Acts 21](/acts/21 "Acts 21 - Paul's Arrival in Jerusalem and Arrest"). Throughout this journey, Paul has received repeated prophetic warnings from the Holy Spirit that "bonds and afflictions" await him in Jerusalem ([Acts 20:23](/acts/20-23 "Acts 20:23 - Paul's Foreknowledge of Suffering")). Immediately preceding this verse, the prophet Agabus dramatically illustrates Paul's impending arrest by taking Paul's belt, binding his own hands and feet, and declaring, "Thus says the Holy Spirit, 'So shall the Jews at Jerusalem bind the man who owns this belt and deliver him into the hands of the Gentiles'" ([Acts 21:11](/acts/21-11 "Acts 21:11 - Agabus's Prophecy")). The emotional response of the local believers and Paul's traveling companions, who weep and plead with him not to go, sets the stage for Paul's resolute and deeply moving reply in [Acts 21:13](/acts/21-13 "Acts 21:13 - Paul's Unwavering Resolve").
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Paul's journey to Jerusalem was fraught with danger, not only from hostile Jewish factions who sought his life but also from the Roman authorities who viewed his activities with suspicion. Jerusalem, as the religious and political center of Judaism, was a particularly volatile place for a figure like Paul, who was perceived by many as a renegade Jew undermining traditional law and custom. The act of weeping and pleading was a culturally acceptable and common expression of deep concern and sorrow, particularly for a beloved leader facing grave peril. Paul's companions were not merely expressing sentimentality but a genuine fear for his life, understanding the very real threats that awaited him in the city. His willingness to face these dangers, despite the emotional cost to himself and his friends, highlights the profound conviction that characterized early Christian discipleship in a hostile world.
* **Key Themes:** [Acts 21:13](/acts/21-13 "Acts 21:13 - Paul's Unwavering Resolve") powerfully encapsulates several major theological and narrative themes prevalent in the book of Acts and Paul's epistles. Foremost among these is the theme of **unwavering faith and dedication** to Christ, even unto death, echoing the call to [take up one's cross and follow Jesus](/luke/9-23 "Luke 9:23 - The Call to Discipleship"). It underscores the **cost of discipleship**, demonstrating that following Christ often involves significant personal sacrifice, suffering, and potential martyrdom, a reality Paul frequently addressed in his letters (e.g., [2 Timothy 3:12](/2_timothy/3-12 "2 Timothy 3:12 - Persecution for Godliness")). Furthermore, the passage highlights the **sovereignty of God's will** over human emotion and desire for safety, as Paul prioritizes his divine mission above the understandable pleas of his friends. Paul's readiness to suffer "for the name of the Lord Jesus" emphasizes the **supremacy of Christ's honor and cause**, illustrating that the Gospel's advance was worth any personal price.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **break (Greek, _synthrýptō'_):** G4919 - From _syn_ (together) and a root meaning "to crumble"; to crush together, i.e. (figuratively) to dispirit. Paul's use of this word indicates that the weeping of his companions was not merely annoying but deeply distressing, causing him emotional pain and a sense of being "crushed" or "shattered" in spirit. It reveals his genuine empathy and the heavy emotional toll of their sorrow on him.
* **ready (Greek, _hetoímōs'_):** G2093 - Adverb from _hetoímos_ (prepared); in readiness. This adverb emphasizes Paul's immediate and complete preparedness. It's not a reluctant acceptance but an eager and settled determination. He is fully poised and willing to act, indicating a profound internal conviction and alignment with God's purpose.
* **die (Greek, _apothnéskō'_):** G599 - From _apo_ (from) and _thnéskō_ (to die); to die off (literally or figuratively). Paul's declaration of readiness "to die" is a stark and ultimate commitment. It signifies a willingness to experience physical death, the complete cessation of earthly life, for the sake of Christ. This is the highest form of sacrifice, demonstrating the absolute value he placed on the "name of the Lord Jesus."

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Then Paul answered, What mean ye to weep and to break mine heart?"**: Paul's opening response is a rhetorical question, expressing his deep emotional distress at his companions' weeping. He is not being insensitive but rather articulating the profound impact their sorrow has on him. The phrase "to break mine heart" vividly conveys his inner anguish, indicating that their tears are tearing at his emotional core, making his resolve even more costly. He acknowledges their love and concern, but also challenges their attempt to sway him from his divinely appointed path.
* **"for I am ready not to be bound only, but also to die at Jerusalem for the name of the Lord Jesus."**: This clause reveals the core of Paul's unwavering commitment. The conjunction "for" (G1063, _gár_) introduces the reason for his emotional state and his firm stance: his readiness. He explicitly states his preparedness for two levels of suffering: first, "to be bound," referring to imprisonment and physical restraint, which was a common consequence for early Christian missionaries. Second, and more profoundly, "but also to die," indicating his willingness to face martyrdom. The location, "at Jerusalem," is significant, as it is the very place where the prophecies indicated his suffering would occur. The ultimate motivation for this readiness is "for the name of the Lord Jesus," signifying for His honor, glory, cause, and the advancement of His kingdom. This phrase encapsulates the sum total of Paul's mission and devotion.

#### Literary Devices
Paul's declaration in [Acts 21:13](/acts/21-13 "Acts 21:13 - Paul's Unwavering Resolve") is rich with literary devices that amplify its emotional and theological impact. The verse opens with a **Rhetorical Question** ("What mean ye to weep and to break mine heart?"), which serves not to elicit an answer but to express Paul's profound emotional distress and to gently rebuke his companions for undermining his resolve. The phrase "to break mine heart" functions as **Hyperbole**, emphasizing the intense emotional pain their weeping caused him, conveying that he was deeply affected, not unfeeling. This also employs **Metaphor**, as a heart cannot literally be broken by tears, but the imagery powerfully conveys emotional shattering. The subsequent declaration, "I am ready not to be bound only, but also to die," uses **Parallelism** and **Climax**. The "not only...but also" construction builds from a lesser form of suffering (imprisonment) to the ultimate sacrifice (death), creating a climactic statement of absolute dedication. This structure also highlights Paul's **Emphasis** on his unwavering commitment, demonstrating a resolve that transcends even the most severe physical and emotional challenges.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Paul's resolute declaration in [Acts 21:13](/acts/21-13 "Acts 21:13 - Paul's Unwavering Resolve") stands as a powerful testament to the transformative power of the Gospel and the radical demands of Christ-centered discipleship. It illustrates a faith that is not merely intellectual assent but a profound, life-altering commitment to God's will, even when that will leads through suffering and death. Paul's willingness to sacrifice himself "for the name of the Lord Jesus" underscores the supreme value he placed on Christ's honor and the advancement of His kingdom, echoing the New Testament's consistent theme that genuine faith often involves enduring hardship for the sake of the Gospel. This passage serves as a timeless reminder that true devotion to Christ may require prioritizing His call above personal comfort, safety, or the emotional pleas of loved ones, demonstrating a surrender to divine purpose that transcends human understanding.

* [Philippians 1:20](/philippians/1-20 "Philippians 1:20 - Paul's Desire for Christ to be Exalted")
* [Matthew 10:39](/matthew/10-39 "Matthew 10:39 - Losing Life for Christ's Sake")
* [Romans 8:35-39](/romans/8-35-39 "Romans 8:35-39 - God's Unfailing Love")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Paul's unwavering resolve in [Acts 21:13](/acts/21-13 "Acts 21:13 - Paul's Unwavering Resolve") provides a profound challenge and inspiration for believers today. In a world that often prioritizes comfort, safety, and personal well-being, Paul's example calls us to examine the depth of our own commitment to Christ. Are we willing to embrace God's will even when it leads to discomfort, opposition, or personal sacrifice? This verse encourages a steadfastness in faith, reminding us that true discipleship often requires courage and an unwavering dedication to the "name of the Lord Jesus," regardless of the cost. It calls us to live with a similar Christ-centered purpose, ready to face whatever comes for the sake of the Gospel, knowing that our ultimate allegiance belongs to Him. Paul's emotional transparency also teaches us that deep commitment does not equate to stoicism; it is possible to feel the pain of difficult choices while remaining firm in conviction.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What "weeping" or emotional pleas in your life might be challenging your commitment to God's revealed will?**
* **In what areas of your life are you being called to be "ready" to make a sacrifice for the "name of the Lord Jesus"?**
* **How does Paul's example of prioritizing divine mission over personal comfort challenge your understanding of discipleship?**
* **What does it mean for you to live "for the name of the Lord Jesus" in your daily life?**

### FAQ
**Was Paul insensitive to his companions' feelings when he said, "What mean ye to weep and to break mine heart?"**

Answer: No, Paul was not insensitive. His rhetorical question, "What mean ye to weep and to break mine heart?" reveals his deep emotional connection to his companions and the genuine pain their sorrow caused him. The Greek word for "break" (_synthrýptō_) means to crush or shatter, indicating that their tears were profoundly distressing to him. His statement is an expression of his own anguish at their distress, coupled with a gentle plea for them to understand that their emotional outpouring, while loving, was making it harder for him to maintain his resolve. He was acknowledging their feelings while firmly reiterating his commitment to God's higher purpose, showing that true dedication does not mean an absence of emotion, but rather a resolve that transcends it.

**What does "for the name of the Lord Jesus" signify in this context?**

Answer: The phrase "for the name of the Lord Jesus" is a comprehensive expression of Paul's motivation. In biblical thought, a "name" represents the full character, authority, reputation, and essence of a person. Therefore, to suffer or die "for the name of the Lord Jesus" means to do so for His honor, for the advancement of His kingdom, for the sake of His message, and in allegiance to His divine authority. It signifies that Paul's entire mission and willingness to endure suffering were rooted in his devotion to Christ and his desire to see Jesus glorified and His Gospel proclaimed, regardless of the personal cost. It encapsulates the ultimate purpose of his life and ministry.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Paul's declaration in [Acts 21:13](/acts/21-13 "Acts 21:13 - Paul's Unwavering Resolve") finds its ultimate Christ-centered fulfillment not merely in Paul's personal sacrifice, but in the perfect and ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ Himself. Paul's readiness "to be bound...but also to die at Jerusalem for the name of the Lord Jesus" is a direct echo and imitation of Christ's own journey to Jerusalem, where He willingly faced suffering, betrayal, and death for the redemption of humanity. Jesus, "for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame" ([Hebrews 12:2](/hebrews/12-2 "Hebrews 12:2 - Jesus, the Pioneer and Perfecter of Faith")), demonstrating the ultimate readiness to suffer for the Father's will and the salvation of His people. Paul's commitment to the "name of the Lord Jesus" reflects the call for all believers to [take up their cross and follow Him](/luke/9-23 "Luke 9:23 - The Call to Discipleship"), participating in Christ's suffering and sharing in His mission ([Philippians 3:10](/philippians/3-10 "Philippians 3:10 - Knowing Christ and the Power of His Resurrection")). Thus, Paul's unwavering resolve is not an isolated act of heroism, but a profound demonstration of a life transformed by the Gospel, mirroring the self-giving love and sacrificial obedience of the Savior whom he served, ultimately pointing to Jesus as the supreme example of devotion and the source of such radical commitment.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Acts 20:24

But none of these things move me, neither count I my life dear unto myself, so that I might finish my course with joy, and the ministry, which I have received of the Lord Jesus, to testify the gospel of the grace of God.

Philippians 1:20

According to my earnest expectation and [my] hope, that in nothing I shall be ashamed, but [that] with all boldness, as always, [so] now also Christ shall be magnified in my body, whether [it be] by life, or by death.

Philippians 1:21

¶ For to me to live [is] Christ, and to die [is] gain.

Philippians 2:17

Yea, and if I be offered upon the sacrifice and service of your faith, I joy, and rejoice with you all.

Romans 8:35

Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? [shall] tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword?

Romans 8:37

Nay, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him that loved us.

2 Timothy 4:6

For I am now ready to be offered, and the time of my departure is at hand.