Should Paul Have Gone Or Not?

That night the Lord appeared to Paul and said, “Be encouraged, Paul.  Just as you have been a witness to me here in Jerusalem, you must preach the Good News in Rome as well.” [Acts 23.11]

Paul had some further communication from God.  Did that communication support Paul's decision to go to Jerusalem? 

At first glance it would appear Paul's circumstance was all orchestrated by God (as Paul was not actually chastised for going to Jerusalem).  However, with a more thorough look, the wording does not definitively indicate whether Paul was right or wrong in going to Jerusalem.  What the Lord DID definitively declare was that Paul was to go to Rome.

Now, it is worth keeping in mind however that in Ananias' instructions to encounter Paul, he was told, And I will show him how much he must suffer for my name’s sake.” Acts 9.16.

So, I am personally at a bit of a loss as to whether Paul should have gone to Jerusalem or not.  All the other believers (who also had heard from the Spirit) indicated that going to Jerusalem was a mistake.

Father, I have my doubts as to whether Paul was accurate in His decision to go to Jerusalem.  Certainly he immediately met with suffering there.  As I continue to read this story, help me to grasp the facts - help me to see what is going on.  And help me to learn more about this Way so that I might journey on with ever increasing confidence!