Acts 15:29

KJV

That ye abstain from meats offered to idols, and from blood, and from things strangled, and from fornication: from which if ye keep yourselves, ye shall do well. Fare ye well.

KJV (with Strong's)

That ye abstain {G567} from meats offered to idols {G1494}, and {G2532} from blood {G129}, and {G2532} from things strangled {G4156}, and {G2532} from fornication {G4202}: from {G1537} which {G3739} if ye keep {G1301} yourselves {G1438}, ye shall do {G4238} well {G2095}. Fare ye well {G4517}.

Complete Jewish Bible

to abstain from what has been sacrificed to idols, from blood, from things strangled, and from fornication. If you keep yourselves from these, you will be doing the right thing.

Shalom!

Berean Standard Bible

You must abstain from food sacrificed to idols, from blood, from the meat of strangled animals, and from sexual immorality. You will do well to avoid these things. Farewell.

American Standard Version

that ye abstain from things sacrificed to idols, and from blood, and from things strangled, and from fornication; from which if ye keep yourselves, it shall be well with you. Fare ye well.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Acts 15:29 presents the core directives from the Jerusalem Council's letter to Gentile believers, outlining specific abstentions deemed necessary for fostering unity and fellowship between Jewish and Gentile Christians. These prohibitions—abstaining from meat offered to idols, blood, things strangled, and fornication—were not conditions for salvation, which was affirmed to be by grace through faith, but rather practical guidelines to facilitate harmonious coexistence and prevent unnecessary offense within the nascent Christian community. The verse concludes with a pastoral encouragement, wishing the recipients well.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Acts 15:29 is the concluding part of the apostolic decree issued by the Jerusalem Council, a pivotal event detailed in [Acts 15](/acts/15 "Acts 15 - The Jerusalem Council"). This verse specifically lists the four prohibitions that the apostles and elders, led by James, deemed essential for Gentile converts. It follows a robust theological debate concerning whether Gentiles needed to be circumcised and adhere to the Mosaic Law for salvation, a debate initiated by certain Pharisees who believed this was necessary ([Acts 15:1-5](/acts/15-1-5 "Acts 15:1-5 - The Debate on Circumcision")). Peter's testimony of God's work among the Gentiles ([Acts 15:7-11](/acts/15-7-11 "Acts 15:7-11 - Peter's Testimony")) and James's summary, referencing prophetic scripture ([Acts 15:13-21](/acts/15-13-21 "Acts 15:13-21 - James's Conclusion")), paved the way for this decree. The decree itself was then formalized in a letter carried by Judas Barsabbas and Silas to the churches in Antioch, Syria, and Cilicia ([Acts 15:22-29](/acts/15-22-29 "Acts 15:22-29 - The Letter to the Gentile Churches")), directly preceding Paul and Barnabas's continued missionary work.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The early church was experiencing rapid growth, particularly among Gentiles, which presented significant challenges to its internal unity. Jewish Christians, steeped in centuries of Mosaic Law and tradition, found it difficult to fellowship, especially at meals, with Gentiles who did not observe the same dietary restrictions or moral codes. The consumption of meat offered to idols was a common practice in the Greco-Roman world, often associated with pagan festivals and temples. The prohibition against consuming blood and things strangled was deeply rooted in Old Testament law, dating back to Noah ([Genesis 9:4](/genesis/9-4 "Genesis 9:4 - Prohibition Against Consuming Blood")) and reiterated throughout the Pentateuch ([Leviticus 17:10-14](/leviticus/17-10-14 "Leviticus 17:10-14 - The Sanctity of Blood")). Furthermore, sexual immorality (fornication) was pervasive in pagan societies, often intertwined with idolatrous worship, contrasting sharply with biblical standards of purity. The council's decision was a pragmatic and pastoral response to these cultural and religious tensions, aiming to remove unnecessary stumbling blocks to fellowship without compromising the core truth of salvation by grace.

* **Key Themes:** The decree in [Acts 15](/acts/15 "Acts 15 - The Jerusalem Council") and specifically [Acts 15:29](/acts/15-29 "Acts 15:29 - The Apostolic Decree") underscores several crucial themes. Firstly, it firmly establishes **Salvation by Grace through Faith**, unequivocally stating that Gentile converts are saved by the grace of the Lord Jesus, not by adherence to the Mosaic Law, including circumcision ([Acts 15:11](/acts/15-11 "Acts 15:11 - Salvation by Grace")). Secondly, the decree highlights the paramount importance of **Christian Unity and Fellowship**. The specific prohibitions were not salvific but pastoral, designed to facilitate harmonious relationships and table fellowship between Jewish and Gentile believers, demonstrating a willingness to accommodate for the sake of the body of Christ ([Acts 15:28](/acts/15-28 "Acts 15:28 - The Holy Spirit and Us")). Thirdly, the inclusion of "fornication" emphasizes **Universal Moral Purity**, distinguishing it from the culturally sensitive dietary issues and affirming that certain moral standards are timeless and apply to all believers, a theme consistently echoed in New Testament epistles like [1 Thessalonians 4:3-5](/1_thessalonians/4-3-5 "1 Thessalonians 4:3-5 - God's Will for Sanctification"). Finally, the council's approach showcases **Pastoral Wisdom and Discernment** in navigating complex cultural and theological issues for the sake of the Gospel's advance and the church's health.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **abstain (Greek, _apéchomai'_):** This verb (G567) means "to hold oneself off, i.e., refrain." It implies a conscious, volitional act of self-restraint. The council's directive was not merely a passive avoidance but an active choice by Gentile believers to separate themselves from practices that would cause offense or compromise their witness.
* **meats offered to idols (Greek, _eidōlóthyton'_):** This compound noun (G1494) literally means "an image-sacrifice, i.e., part of an idolatrous offering." It refers to food that had been consecrated to pagan deities, often sold cheaply in the market after being offered in temples. For Jewish believers, consuming such meat, especially in a context that implied participation in pagan worship, was deeply offensive and a violation of their monotheistic convictions.
* **blood (Greek, _haîma'_):** The noun (G129) refers to literal blood, particularly of animals. The prohibition against consuming blood was ancient and deeply ingrained in Jewish law and tradition, stemming from the belief that "the life of the creature is in the blood" ([Leviticus 17:11](/leviticus/17-11 "Leviticus 17:11 - The Life is in the Blood")). Its consumption was forbidden, signifying respect for life and the sacred nature of blood in atonement.
* **things strangled (Greek, _pniktós'_):** This adjective (G4156) describes an animal that was "throttled, i.e., choked to death (not bled)." This prohibition is directly linked to the command against consuming blood, as strangulation would prevent the blood from being properly drained from the animal, rendering it unclean according to Jewish dietary laws.
* **fornication (Greek, _porneía'_):** This noun (G4202) is a broad term encompassing "harlotry (including adultery and incest); figuratively, idolatry." It refers to all forms of illicit sexual immorality. Its inclusion alongside dietary restrictions highlights that while the other three prohibitions were culturally sensitive, fornication represented a universal moral imperative for all believers, distinguishing Christian ethics from the pervasive sexual license of the pagan world.
* **well (Greek, _eû'_):** This adverb (G2095) simply means "well" or "good." In this context, it signifies that by adhering to these guidelines, the Gentile believers would be acting appropriately and beneficially, contributing to the health and harmony of the church.
* **Fare ye well (Greek, _rhṓnnymi'_):** This verb (G4517) is a common epistolary closing, meaning "to strengthen, i.e., (impersonal passive) have health (as a parting exclamation, good-bye)." It conveys a warm, pastoral wish for the recipients' well-being and prosperity.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"That ye abstain from meats offered to idols, and from blood, and from things strangled, and from fornication:"**: This opening clause presents the four specific prohibitions that the Jerusalem Council deemed necessary for Gentile converts. The first three (meat offered to idols, blood, and things strangled) directly address Jewish sensitivities regarding food preparation and consumption, aiming to remove barriers to table fellowship. The final prohibition, "fornication," stands apart as a universal moral command, underscoring the early church's unwavering commitment to sexual purity, which was a stark contrast to prevailing pagan practices.
* **"from which if ye keep yourselves, ye shall do well."**: This phrase provides the rationale and positive outcome of adhering to the stated guidelines. The Greek word for "keep yourselves" (G1301, _diatēréō_, combined with G1438, _heautoû_) suggests a diligent and thorough self-observance or avoidance. The promise that "ye shall do well" (G4238, _prássō_, combined with G2095, _eû_) indicates that such adherence would lead to flourishing relationships, a healthy community, and a positive spiritual state for the Gentile believers and the church as a whole. It emphasizes the practical wisdom and communal benefit of these directives.
* **"Fare ye well."**: This is a standard closing salutation in ancient Greek letters (G4517, _rhṓnnymi_), equivalent to "goodbye" or "be strong/healthy." It conveys a warm, pastoral tone, reinforcing that the letter's intent was not to burden the Gentile believers with legalistic demands but to offer guidance for their well-being and the peace of the church. It underscores the conciliatory and benevolent spirit of the council's decision.

#### Literary Devices
The language of Acts 15:29, though part of a formal decree, employs several literary devices that enhance its impact and convey the council's intent. The rapid listing of the prohibitions ("meats offered to idols, and from blood, and from things strangled, and from fornication") creates a sense of directness and clarity, a form of **Enumeration** that emphasizes the specific, non-negotiable points. The inclusion of "fornication" alongside dietary restrictions creates a subtle **Juxtaposition**, highlighting that while some commands are for cultural harmony, others are universal moral imperatives. The phrase "ye shall do well" serves as a form of **Encouragement and Assurance**, promising positive outcomes for adherence, which softens the tone of the prohibitions. Finally, the concluding "Fare ye well" (G4517, _rhṓnnymi_) is a classic **Epistolary Closing**, imbuing the decree with a warm, personal, and **Pastoral Tone**, reinforcing the council's genuine concern for the health and unity of the Gentile churches rather than imposing a burdensome legal code.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Acts 15:29 stands as a profound testament to the early church's commitment to both theological truth and practical unity. While the Jerusalem Council unequivocally affirmed salvation by grace through faith in Jesus Christ alone, the specific prohibitions in this verse demonstrate a willingness to exercise Christian liberty responsibly for the sake of fellowship. The dietary restrictions, though not salvific, were crucial for fostering table fellowship and preventing offense to Jewish believers deeply rooted in Old Testament traditions. The inclusion of "fornication," however, transcends cultural accommodation, serving as a timeless moral imperative that distinguishes Christian conduct from the surrounding pagan world. This verse beautifully illustrates the tension and balance between theological freedom and loving consideration for others, underscoring that while all things may be permissible, not all things are beneficial or edifying for the body of Christ.

* [Romans 14:13](/romans/14-13 "Romans 14:13 - Do Not Cause a Brother to Stumble")
* [1 Corinthians 8:9](/1_corinthians/8-9 "1 Corinthians 8:9 - Consider the Conscience of Others")
* [1 Thessalonians 4:3](/1_thessalonians/4-3 "1 Thessalonians 4:3 - God's Will for Sanctification and Purity")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Acts 15:29 offers enduring principles for the church today, even if the specific dietary prohibitions are not universally binding in the same way. The primary takeaway is the profound importance of prioritizing Christian unity and love over personal preferences or liberties. We are called to be sensitive to the consciences of others, especially those who may be weaker in faith or come from different cultural backgrounds, ensuring that our actions do not become a stumbling block. This requires humility, empathy, and a willingness to yield our rights for the greater good of the community and the advancement of the Gospel. Furthermore, the inclusion of "fornication" serves as a timeless reminder of God's unchanging call to holiness and moral purity in all aspects of life, particularly sexual conduct. In a world often characterized by division and moral compromise, the church must strive to embody both gracious unity and uncompromising truth, discerning how to apply biblical principles with wisdom and love in diverse cultural contexts.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How can I, as a believer, prioritize the unity and well-being of my Christian community over my personal preferences or liberties?**
* **In what areas of my life might I be inadvertently causing a "stumbling block" for others, and how can I exercise greater sensitivity and love?**
* **How does the timeless command against "fornication" challenge me to pursue holiness and purity in my thoughts, words, and actions?**
* **What cultural practices in my context might require discernment, similar to the early church's debate over meat offered to idols, to ensure I live in a way that honors God and doesn't hinder the Gospel?**

### FAQ
**Are the prohibitions in Acts 15:29 still binding on Christians today?**

Answer: The prohibitions in Acts 15:29 can be understood in two categories: moral and ceremonial/cultural. The command to abstain from **fornication** (sexual immorality) is a universal and timeless moral imperative, consistently upheld throughout the New Testament ([1 Corinthians 6:18](/1_corinthians/6-18 "1 Corinthians 6:18 - Flee Fornication"), [Hebrews 13:4](/hebrews/13-4 "Hebrews 13:4 - Marriage and Purity")). This command remains absolutely binding on all Christians. The other three prohibitions—abstaining from **meats offered to idols, blood, and things strangled**—were primarily pastoral and cultural concessions made to foster unity between Jewish and Gentile believers in the early church. While the Old Testament prohibitions against blood were significant ([Leviticus 17:10](/leviticus/17-10 "Leviticus 17:10 - Prohibition Against Consuming Blood")), the New Testament, particularly through Paul's epistles, clarifies Christian liberty regarding food. Paul teaches that all food is clean ([Mark 7:19](/mark/7-19 "Mark 7:19 - Jesus Declares All Foods Clean"), [Romans 14:14](/romans/14-14 "Romans 14:14 - Nothing is Unclean in Itself")), but believers should still avoid causing a brother to stumble or participating in idolatrous worship ([1 Corinthians 8:1-13](/1_corinthians/8-1-13 "1 Corinthians 8 - Meat Offered to Idols and Conscience"), [1 Corinthians 10:23-33](/1_corinthians/10-23-33 "1 Corinthians 10:23-33 - Do All for God's Glory")). Therefore, while the underlying principles of love, unity, and moral purity are timeless, the specific dietary restrictions are generally not considered universally binding in the same literal way today, unless they cause a brother to stumble or directly implicate participation in idolatry.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Acts 15:29, while addressing practical matters of church unity, finds its ultimate fulfillment and deeper meaning in the person and work of Jesus Christ. Christ is the one who, through His sacrifice, has broken down the dividing wall of hostility between Jew and Gentile, creating one new humanity in Himself ([Ephesians 2:14-16](/ephesians/2-14-16 "Ephesians 2:14-16 - Christ Our Peace")). The dietary laws, including those concerning blood and strangled animals, were part of the Old Covenant shadows that pointed to Christ. His atoning blood, shed once for all, is the ultimate sacrifice that cleanses from all sin, rendering animal sacrifices and their associated regulations obsolete ([Hebrews 9:11-14](/hebrews/9-11-14 "Hebrews 9:11-14 - Christ's Superior Sacrifice")). Furthermore, Jesus declared all foods clean ([Mark 7:19](/mark/7-19 "Mark 7:19 - Jesus Declares All Foods Clean")), liberating believers from ceremonial dietary laws. While the council's decree was a pastoral accommodation, it was made possible by Christ's work, which freed both Jews and Gentiles from the Mosaic Law as a means of salvation. The command against fornication, however, is a timeless moral truth rooted in God's holy character, perfectly exemplified by Christ's own purity and His call for His followers to be holy as He is holy ([1 Peter 1:15-16](/1_peter/1-15-16 "1 Peter 1:15-16 - Be Holy as I Am Holy")). Thus, the unity sought in Acts 15 is ultimately achieved in Christ, who is the head of the church, and the purity demanded is a reflection of His own spotless character, empowering His followers by the Spirit to live lives pleasing to Him.

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 15:20

But that we write unto them, that they abstain from pollutions of idols, and [from] fornication, and [from] things strangled, and [from] blood.

Acts 21:25

As touching the Gentiles which believe, we have written [and] concluded that they observe no such thing, save only that they keep themselves from [things] offered to idols, and from blood, and from strangled, and from fornication.

Revelation 2:20

Notwithstanding I have a few things against thee, because thou sufferest that woman Jezebel, which calleth herself a prophetess, to teach and to seduce my servants to commit fornication, and to eat things sacrificed unto idols.

Revelation 2:14

But I have a few things against thee, because thou hast there them that hold the doctrine of Balaam, who taught Balac to cast a stumblingblock before the children of Israel, to eat things sacrificed unto idols, and to commit fornication.

1 Corinthians 10:18

Behold Israel after the flesh: are not they which eat of the sacrifices partakers of the altar?

1 Corinthians 10:20

But [I say], that the things which the Gentiles sacrifice, they sacrifice to devils, and not to God: and I would not that ye should have fellowship with devils.

Leviticus 17:14

For [it is] the life of all flesh; the blood of it [is] for the life thereof: therefore I said unto the children of Israel, Ye shall eat the blood of no manner of flesh: for the life of all flesh [is] the blood thereof: whosoever eateth it shall be cut off.