15:18 15:18

Acts 15:19

15:20 15:20

Bible Versions

Wherefore my sentence is, that we trouble not them, which from among the Gentiles are turned to God:
Wherefore {G1352} my {G1473} sentence is {G2919}, that we trouble {G3926} not {G3361} them, which {G3588} from among {G575} the Gentiles {G1484} are turned {G1994} to {G1909} God {G2316}:
“Therefore, my opinion is that we should not put obstacles in the way of the Goyim who are turning to God.
It is my judgment, therefore, that we should not cause trouble for the Gentiles who are turning to God.
Wherefore my judgment is, that we trouble not them that from among the Gentiles turn to God;

Acts 15:19 presents a pivotal moment in the early Christian church, encapsulating James’s decisive verdict at the Jerusalem Council. This verse marks a significant turning point, affirming the inclusion of Gentile believers without the imposition of burdensome Jewish ceremonial laws.

Context

This verse comes from the Jerusalem Council, a crucial gathering of apostles and elders convened to address a heated theological dispute. Certain Jewish Christians, primarily from Judea (Acts 15:1), insisted that Gentile converts must be circumcised and observe the Law of Moses to be saved. After Peter recounted his experience with Cornelius (Acts 15:7-11) and Paul and Barnabas shared their missionary successes among the Gentiles (Acts 15:12), James, a prominent leader in the Jerusalem church, delivered his summary and judgment, which ultimately became the council's resolution.

Key Themes

  • Salvation by Grace: James's ruling underscores the foundational Christian doctrine that salvation is a gift from God, received through faith in Jesus Christ, not through adherence to the Mosaic Law. This decision liberated Gentile believers from unnecessary legalistic requirements.
  • Inclusion of Gentiles: The verse highlights God's expansive plan to extend His salvation to all nations, fulfilling prophecies from the Old Testament. James specifically references Amos 9:11-12 in his speech, demonstrating God's long-standing intention to gather a people for Himself from among the Gentiles.
  • Christian Liberty and Unity: By deciding not to "trouble" Gentile converts, the council promoted unity within the nascent church, preventing a schism between Jewish and Gentile believers. It affirmed that the core of Christian fellowship is faith in Christ, not cultural or ceremonial practices.
  • Apostolic Authority and Discernment: James's "sentence" (judgment) reflects careful deliberation, divine guidance, and the collective wisdom of the apostles and elders. This decision set a precedent for how the early church would resolve doctrinal disputes.

Linguistic Insights

The phrase "my sentence is" comes from the Greek word krino (κρίνω), which means "to judge," "to decide," or "to determine." It signifies James's authoritative pronouncement, a judicial decision based on the evidence presented and the leading of the Holy Spirit. The instruction "that we trouble not them" uses the Greek word parenochleo (παρενοχλέω), meaning "to annoy," "to vex," or "to burden." It emphasizes the council's desire not to impose unnecessary or stumbling-block requirements on new converts, recognizing their genuine turning "to God."

Practical Application

Acts 15:19 holds enduring relevance for believers today. It serves as a powerful reminder that:

  • The Gospel is Simple: We should avoid adding human-made rules or traditions as requirements for salvation or fellowship, focusing instead on the essential truth of faith in Jesus Christ.
  • Grace Over Legalism: The church should always prioritize grace and the finished work of Christ over legalistic demands that can burden believers and hinder spiritual growth.
  • Welcoming New Believers: Like the early church, we are called to welcome new converts from all backgrounds without imposing cultural or ceremonial burdens that are not central to the faith.
  • Unity in Diversity: This passage encourages unity within the church, celebrating the diversity of believers while upholding the core doctrines of the faith. The subsequent verses (Acts 15:20-21) show that while liberty was granted, certain ethical guidelines were still advised for the sake of fellowship and witness.
Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

  • Acts 15:28

    For it seemed good to the Holy Ghost, and to us, to lay upon you no greater burden than these necessary things;

  • Acts 15:24

    Forasmuch as we have heard, that certain which went out from us have troubled you with words, subverting your souls, saying, [Ye must] be circumcised, and keep the law: to whom we gave no [such] commandment:

  • 1 Thessalonians 1:9

    For they themselves shew of us what manner of entering in we had unto you, and how ye turned to God from idols to serve the living and true God;

  • Galatians 1:7

    Which is not another; but there be some that trouble you, and would pervert the gospel of Christ.

  • Galatians 1:10

    ¶ For do I now persuade men, or God? or do I seek to please men? for if I yet pleased men, I should not be the servant of Christ.

  • Acts 26:20

    But shewed first unto them of Damascus, and at Jerusalem, and throughout all the coasts of Judaea, and [then] to the Gentiles, that they should repent and turn to God, and do works meet for repentance.

  • Isaiah 55:7

    Let the wicked forsake his way, and the unrighteous man his thoughts: and let him return unto the LORD, and he will have mercy upon him; and to our God, for he will abundantly pardon.
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