When we heard this, we and the people there pleaded with Paul not to go up to Jerusalem.  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.”  When he would not be dissuaded, we gave up and said, “The Lord’s will be done.”

Paul knew the work set before him, and the journey he must take.  The others were dismayed, in fear and in sorrow, so they tried in every way to persuade him not to go.  This reminds me of when Jesus first told the disciples He would suffer and die.  Peter rebuked Him, and with confidence said, “Surely not, Lord.”  When we love and respect someone we want to protect them from harm, but there are times when we must let them go, trusting God for the days of their lives.