Gossip and Confusion - Paul's Passion Narrative?

Acts 20-21
There are some real similarities to Paul's journey to Jerusalem and Jesus' journey to Jerusalem previously.

First Paul brings someone back from the dead (similar to Jesus' raising of Lazurus). Eutychus ("Lucky") falls asleep listening to Paul preach and falls out of a third story window. After Paul heals him, Paul returns for more "conversation" which lasts until DAWN. I used to talk that long when I was a teenager, but no more. I can watch old movies until about 3 or 4, but not "conversation". Of course Paul did not have Facebook, Twitter, or Blogging.

In Acts 20:16-38 Paul delivers a farewell address to the leaders of Ephesus, his most important community (and the place where he stayed the longest). Like Jesus, Paul predicts his own demise. The picture is grim. He is predicting things will probably get worse before they get better.

Paul was planning a rather low key visit to Jerusalem to deliver the collection he had received from the converts from his travels. James receives him warmly, but the success he has brought comes with rumors of his turning people against the law of Moses. James requests a ritual of purification which lasts long enough for the "forces of malice to swing into action" ( Storyteller Companion to the Bible, vol. 12. pg. 167).

Paul's quest for unity is subverted by gossip and rumors.

Rumors put "the whole city" in turmoil. Paul is arrested and brought to the front of the mob which is yelling "Away with him" or "Kill him" (Like with Jesus, "Crucify him").

The arresting officer is stunned that Paul can speak Greek and is not "the Egyptian who started a revolt some time ago". Oops, wrong guy. When Paul is allowed to speak to the crowd - he speaks in the Jewish language, which quiets them. Oops. The crowd has been upset with the wrong guy for the wrong reasons.

Today the reading is Chapters 22- 25. I am still playing catch up!

On a another note - Gene Fritz passed away this afternoon. Services are pending. Services for Judy Smith are Thursday afternoon at 2 at Klein Funeral Home on Cypresswood.