John Calvin Commentary Acts 21:12

"And when we heard these things, both we and they of that place besought him not to go up to Jerusalem." — Acts 21:12 (ASV)

Both we. Because they did not all have the same revelation, it is no wonder if their judgments were diverse. For since these holy men knew that much depended on the life or death of one man, they would not have him come into danger rashly. And their desire is worthy of praise, because they desired to provide for the common safety of the Church by holding back Paul.

But, on the other hand, Paul’s constancy deserves all the more praise, especially since he continues so steadfast in the calling of God. For he was not ignorant of the great trouble he would suffer because of his bonds. But because he knows the will of God, which was his only rule in making decisions, he takes no account of all other things, so that he may follow it.

And, assuredly, we must be so subject to the will and pleasure of God, that no profit, no kind of reason can remove us from obeying him. When Paul rebukes the brethren because they grieve his heart with weeping, he sufficiently declares that he was not hardened, but that he was moved to feel and suffer with them.

Therefore, the tears of the godly wounded his heart; but that softness did not turn him from his path; rather, he proceeded to follow God with a straight course. Therefore, we must show such courtesy toward our brethren, that the command or will of God always has the upper hand.

Now Paul again declares by his answer, that the servants of Christ cannot be prepared to do their duty unless they despise death; and that no one can ever be properly encouraged to live to the Lord, except those who are willing to lay down their lives for the testimony of the truth.