Bible Figure
Agabus
Agabus was a Christian prophet mentioned in Acts. He foretold a severe famine during the reign of Claudius and later dramatically warned Paul that he would be bound in Jerusalem and handed over to the Gentiles.
Biography
Agabus first appears among prophets who came from Jerusalem to Antioch. Through the Spirit he predicted a great famine over the Roman world, which Luke says occurred during the reign of Claudius. The disciples responded by sending relief to believers in Judea through Barnabas and Saul. Years later Agabus met Paul at Caesarea. Taking Paul's belt, he bound his own hands and feet and declared that the Holy Spirit said the owner of the belt would be bound in Jerusalem and delivered into Gentile hands. Paul's companions pleaded with him not to go, but Paul answered that he was ready not only to be bound but to die for the name of the Lord Jesus. Events in Jerusalem substantially fulfilled the warning. Scripture does not tell us more about Agabus' origins or death.
Biblical Significance
Agabus is one of the clearest named examples of prophetic ministry in the early church. His two appearances show prophecy prompting practical charity and preparing believers for suffering, while Paul's response demonstrates that a prophetic warning need not be a command to avoid the predicted hardship.