Acts 15:25

KJV

It seemed good unto us, being assembled with one accord, to send chosen men unto you with our beloved Barnabas and Paul,

KJV (with Strong's)

It seemed good {G1380} unto us {G2254}, being assembled {G1096} with one accord {G3661}, to send {G3992} chosen {G1586} men {G435} unto {G4314} you {G5209} with {G4862} our {G2257} beloved {G27} Barnabas {G921} and {G2532} Paul {G3972},

Complete Jewish Bible

So we have decided unanimously to select men and send them to you with our dear friends Bar-Nabba and Sha’ul,

Berean Standard Bible

So we all agreed to choose men to send to you along with our beloved Barnabas and Paul,

American Standard Version

it seemed good unto us, having come to one accord, to choose out men and send them unto you with our beloved Barnabas and Paul,

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Acts 15:25 records a pivotal moment in early church history, articulating the unanimous decision of the Jerusalem Council to send chosen representatives, including Barnabas and Paul, to Gentile believers. This verse is part of the official letter drafted by the apostles and elders, communicating their Spirit-guided resolution regarding the inclusion of Gentiles into the Christian faith without requiring circumcision or strict adherence to the Mosaic Law, thereby preserving the unity and mission of the nascent church.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is situated within the narrative of the [Jerusalem Council](/acts/15 "Acts 15 - The Jerusalem Council"), a watershed event described in [Acts 15:1-35](/acts/15-1-35 "Acts 15:1-35 - The Jerusalem Council's Decision"). The preceding verses detail the intense debate sparked by certain Jewish believers insisting that Gentile converts must be circumcised and observe the Law of Moses ([Acts 15:1](/acts/15-1 "Acts 15:1 - The Circumcision Controversy")). After extensive discussion, including powerful testimonies from Peter ([Acts 15:7-11](/acts/15-7-11 "Acts 15:7-11 - Peter's Testimony")) and James ([Acts 15:13-21](/acts/15-13-21 "Acts 15:13-21 - James's Proposal")), the council reached a consensus. Verse 25 is part of the formal letter communicating this decision to the Gentile churches, particularly in Antioch, Syria, and Cilicia, and sets the stage for the specific directives that follow in [Acts 15:28-29](/acts/15-28-29 "Acts 15:28-29 - The Council's Decrees").
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The early church was rapidly expanding beyond its Jewish origins, leading to significant cultural and theological tension. The question of Gentile inclusion was not merely academic; it touched upon the very identity of the Christian movement. For many Jewish believers, adherence to the Mosaic Law, especially circumcision, was a non-negotiable marker of God's covenant people. The council's decision, therefore, represented a radical departure from deeply ingrained Jewish traditions, asserting that salvation in Christ transcended ethnic and legalistic boundaries. This decision was crucial for the continued growth of the church, preventing a schism between Jewish and Gentile believers and affirming the universal nature of the Gospel. The sending of messengers from Jerusalem, the spiritual center, to the Gentile mission fields underscored the authority and unity of the early Christian leadership.
* **Key Themes:** The verse directly contributes to several major themes in Acts and the broader New Testament. Foremost is the theme of **unity and consensus** within the early Christian community, particularly evident in the phrase "with one accord," demonstrating the church's ability to navigate profound disagreements under divine guidance. This unity was essential for the church's witness and mission. Another crucial theme is **divine guidance in decision-making**, as the council explicitly states in [Acts 15:28](/acts/15-28 "Acts 15:28 - The Holy Spirit's Role") that their decision "seemed good to the Holy Ghost, and to us." This highlights the church's reliance on the Holy Spirit for wisdom and direction. The verse also underscores **apostolic authority and affirmation**, as the council, representing the highest authority, not only made a definitive ruling but also sent chosen representatives, validating the ministry of Barnabas and Paul, who had been at the forefront of Gentile evangelism ([Acts 13:1-3](/acts/13-1-3 "Acts 13:1-3 - Barnabas and Paul Sent Out")). Finally, it reflects the **pastoral care** of the early church for its diverse members, seeking to alleviate burdens and assure Gentile converts of their full inclusion in the body of Christ.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **seemed good (Greek, _dokéō_):** This word (G1380) signifies a decision reached after careful consideration and with a sense of divine approval or correctness. It implies that the conclusion was not arbitrary but was perceived as fitting and appropriate, reflecting a consensus that was believed to be aligned with God's will. In this context, it speaks to the thoughtful deliberation and Spirit-led discernment of the council.
* **one accord (Greek, _homothymadón_):** Derived from a compound word meaning "with one mind" or "with one passion" (G3661), this term emphasizes the remarkable unanimity achieved by the diverse leaders of the early church. It denotes a collective agreement born out of shared conviction and a unified purpose, indicating that despite initial intense debate, the Holy Spirit brought them to a singular, harmonious resolution. This word is frequently used in Acts to describe the unity of the early Christian community.
* **chosen (Greek, _eklégomai_):** This word (G1586) means "to select" or "to choose out." Its use here indicates that the men sent were not randomly selected but were specifically and intentionally appointed for this crucial task. This implies a deliberate and prayerful process of selection, signifying their trustworthiness and suitability to deliver the council's important message, further validating the decision.
* **beloved (Greek, _agapētós_):** This term (G27) conveys a deep sense of affection, endearment, and high regard. By referring to Barnabas and Paul as "our beloved," the council not only expressed their personal esteem but also publicly affirmed their ministry and credibility. This was particularly significant given the controversies surrounding their work among Gentiles, serving to counteract any accusations or doubts about their standing within the apostolic community.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"It seemed good unto us":** This opening phrase establishes the collective authority and shared conviction of the Jerusalem Council—the apostles and elders—in making this decision. It implies a process of discernment and agreement, suggesting that their conclusion was not merely human judgment but was perceived as divinely guided and appropriate.
* **"being assembled with one accord":** This crucial phrase highlights the remarkable unity and unanimity achieved by the council members despite the significant and potentially divisive theological dispute they were addressing. It underscores that their decision was a harmonious consensus, not a mere compromise, indicating the powerful work of the Holy Spirit in bringing diverse minds to a single, unified purpose.
* **"to send chosen men unto you":** This clause describes the practical outcome of the council's decision: the dispatch of official messengers. The term "chosen men" emphasizes that these individuals (Judas Barsabas and Silas, as indicated in the subsequent verses) were specifically selected for their trustworthiness and ability to accurately convey the council's decrees, ensuring the message was delivered with integrity and authority.
* **"with our beloved Barnabas and Paul":** This final part of the clause serves as a powerful affirmation and endorsement of Barnabas and Paul. By calling them "our beloved," the council publicly acknowledged their esteemed position and validated their ministry among the Gentiles. Their inclusion as accompanying messengers further lent credibility to the message and demonstrated the unified support of the Jerusalem leadership for their mission.

#### Literary Devices
The verse employs several literary devices to convey its message effectively. The use of **Consensus Language** is prominent, particularly in the phrase "with one accord" (_homothymadón_), which emphasizes the unity and unanimity of the council's decision. This term, frequently used in Acts, highlights the Spirit-empowered harmony within the early church. Furthermore, the phrase "It seemed good unto us" functions as a **Deliberative Statement**, signaling that the decision was the result of careful thought, discussion, and a shared conviction, implying divine leading. The council's reference to Barnabas and Paul as "our beloved" is a clear example of **Affirmation and Endearment**, serving to validate their ministry and standing within the apostolic community, especially in the face of controversy. This term of affection also adds a pastoral and relational warmth to the formal decree.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Acts 15:25 powerfully illustrates the early church's commitment to unity, its reliance on the Holy Spirit for guidance, and its pastoral concern for all believers. The "one accord" achieved by the Jerusalem Council in the face of deep theological division serves as a foundational model for Christian community, demonstrating that genuine consensus, even on contentious issues, is possible through prayerful deliberation and submission to divine will. This unity was not merely for internal harmony but was crucial for the church's external mission, ensuring that the Gospel message of salvation by grace through faith remained unburdened by unnecessary legalistic requirements for Gentile converts. The affirmation of Barnabas and Paul also highlights the importance of supporting and validating those whom God has called to ministry, fostering trust and cooperation across different spheres of Christian service.

* [Acts 15:28](/acts/15-28 "Acts 15:28 - The Holy Spirit's Guidance in Decision")
* [Philippians 2:2](/philippians/2-2 "Philippians 2:2 - Unity of Mind in Christ")
* [1 Corinthians 12:12-13](/1_corinthians/12-12-13 "1 Corinthians 12:12-13 - Unity in Diversity of the Body")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Acts 15:25 offers profound lessons for believers and the church today, particularly in an era often marked by division and disagreement. The "one accord" achieved by the Jerusalem Council underscores the paramount importance of striving for unity within the body of Christ, even when confronting complex doctrinal or practical challenges. It calls us to engage in respectful dialogue, prayerful discernment, and a shared pursuit of God's truth, trusting that the Holy Spirit can guide diverse perspectives toward a harmonious resolution. This verse also reminds us of the significance of affirming and supporting those in ministry, particularly when they face opposition or misunderstanding. Just as Barnabas and Paul were validated, we are called to recognize and encourage the Spirit-gifted service of others, fostering a culture of mutual respect and cooperation. Ultimately, it challenges us to prioritize the unity of the Spirit and the clarity of the Gospel message over personal preferences or traditional biases, ensuring that the church remains a compelling witness to God's reconciling grace.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How can we, as individuals and as a church community, cultivate the "one accord" spirit demonstrated by the Jerusalem Council when facing disagreements?**
* **In what ways do we seek and discern the Holy Spirit's guidance in our collective decision-making processes, both in personal life and in church leadership?**
* **How can we better affirm and support those whom God has called into challenging ministries, especially when their approaches or audiences differ from our own?**
* **What unnecessary burdens or traditions might we inadvertently place on new believers or those from different cultural backgrounds, and how can we address them with pastoral care?**

### FAQ
**What was the significance of the phrase "with one accord" in this verse?**

Answer: The phrase "with one accord" (Greek: _homothymadón_) is highly significant because it highlights the remarkable unity and unanimity achieved by the diverse leaders of the early church at the Jerusalem Council. Despite intense theological debate regarding the necessity of circumcision and Mosaic Law for Gentile converts ([Acts 15:1](/acts/15-1 "Acts 15:1 - The Circumcision Controversy")), the council reached a unified decision. This phrase emphasizes that their agreement was not a mere compromise but a Spirit-led consensus, crucial for maintaining the integrity, unity, and witness of the Christian faith during a foundational period. It demonstrates the early church's commitment to resolving disputes through prayerful deliberation and mutual respect, guided by the Holy Spirit.

**Why were Barnabas and Paul specifically mentioned as "beloved" in this letter?**

Answer: The designation of Barnabas and Paul as "our beloved" was a crucial and intentional affirmation of their ministry and credibility. At this time, they were central figures in the Gentile mission, having just returned from their first missionary journey ([Acts 14:26-28](/acts/14-26-28 "Acts 14:26-28 - Return to Antioch")). They had also been at the center of the controversy that led to the council, as certain Jewish believers from Judea had challenged their teachings on Gentile inclusion ([Acts 15:1-2](/acts/15-1-2 "Acts 15:1-2 - The Dispute in Antioch")). By publicly calling them "beloved," the Jerusalem Council, representing the highest authority in the early church, was providing a powerful endorsement of their character, their work, and the validity of their message to the Gentiles. This affirmation served to counteract any accusations or doubts about their standing and ensured that the letter's message would be received with full confidence by the Gentile churches.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Acts 15:25, with its emphasis on unity, Spirit-guided decision-making, and the affirmation of those sent on mission, finds profound fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Christ. The "one accord" achieved by the Jerusalem Council reflects Christ's own fervent prayer for the unity of His disciples, that they might be one, just as He and the Father are one ([John 17:20-23](/john/17-20-23 "John 17:20-23 - Jesus' Prayer for Unity")). This unity, guided by the Holy Spirit, is a direct result of Christ's promise to send the Spirit to lead His followers into all truth ([John 16:13](/john/16-13 "John 16:13 - The Spirit of Truth")). The council's decision to remove the burden of the Mosaic Law for Gentile believers foreshadows the new covenant established in Christ's blood, where salvation is by grace through faith, not by works of the law ([Ephesians 2:8-9](/ephesians/2-8-9 "Ephesians 2:8-9 - Salvation by Grace")). The sending of "chosen men" and the affirmation of "beloved Barnabas and Paul" echo Christ's own commissioning of His apostles to go into all the world and make disciples ([Matthew 28:18-20](/matthew/28-18-20 "Matthew 28:18-20 - The Great Commission")), demonstrating His continued headship over His church ([Colossians 1:18](/colossians/1-18 "Colossians 1:18 - Christ as Head of the Church")) as it expands to include all nations, fulfilling the Abrahamic promise through Him ([Galatians 3:14](/galatians/3-14 "Galatians 3:14 - The Blessing of Abraham Through Christ")).

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.

Cross-References

Acts 1:14

These all continued with one accord in prayer and supplication, with the women, and Mary the mother of Jesus, and with his brethren.

Luke 1:3

It seemed good to me also, having had perfect understanding of all things from the very first, to write unto thee in order, most excellent Theophilus,

Acts 15:22

¶ Then pleased it the apostles and elders, with the whole church, to send chosen men of their own company to Antioch with Paul and Barnabas; [namely], Judas surnamed Barsabas, and Silas, chief men among the brethren:

2 Peter 3:15

And account [that] the longsuffering of our Lord [is] salvation; even as our beloved brother Paul also according to the wisdom given unto him hath written unto you;

Acts 15:2

When therefore Paul and Barnabas had no small dissension and disputation with them, they determined that Paul and Barnabas, and certain other of them, should go up to Jerusalem unto the apostles and elders about this question.

Romans 16:12

Salute Tryphena and Tryphosa, who labour in the Lord. Salute the beloved Persis, which laboured much in the Lord.

Colossians 4:7

¶ All my state shall Tychicus declare unto you, [who is] a beloved brother, and a faithful minister and fellowservant in the Lord: