Acts 15:30

So when they were dismissed, they came to Antioch: and when they had gathered the multitude together, they delivered the epistle:

So {G3303}{G3767} when they were dismissed {G630}, they came {G2064} to {G1519} Antioch {G490}: and {G2532} when they had gathered {G4863} the multitude {G4128} together {G4863}, they delivered {G1929} the epistle {G1992}:

The messengers were sent off and went to Antioch, where they gathered the group together and delivered the letter.

So the men were sent off and went down to Antioch, where they assembled the congregation and delivered the letter.

So they, when they were dismissed, came down to Antioch; and having gathered the multitude together, they delivered the epistle.

Acts 15:30 marks a significant moment in the early Christian church, detailing the immediate aftermath of the pivotal Jerusalem Council. This verse highlights the delivery of a crucial letter that addressed a major theological dispute concerning Gentile believers.

Context of Acts 15:30

The events leading up to this verse are described in Acts chapter 15, often referred to as the Jerusalem Council. A significant controversy had arisen in Antioch, where some Jewish Christians insisted that Gentile converts must be circumcised and adhere to the Mosaic Law to be saved (Acts 15:1). Paul and Barnabas, who championed the inclusion of Gentiles by faith alone, traveled to Jerusalem to consult with the apostles and elders. After much discussion and the powerful testimonies of Peter, Barnabas, and Paul, James, the brother of Jesus, delivered the council's verdict. The decision was that Gentile believers were not required to be circumcised but should abstain from certain practices offensive to Jewish sensibilities (Acts 15:28-29). This decision was then formally written into an epistle (a letter) and entrusted to Paul, Barnabas, Judas (Barsabas), and Silas to deliver back to the church in Antioch.

Key Themes and Messages

  • Resolution of Conflict: This verse demonstrates the early church's method of addressing significant theological disagreements through prayer, discussion, and reliance on apostolic authority guided by the Holy Spirit.
  • Unity and Harmony: The delivery of the epistle was crucial for maintaining unity between Jewish and Gentile believers, solidifying the understanding that salvation is by grace through faith, not by adherence to the Law. This decision helped prevent a schism in the burgeoning Christian movement.
  • Apostolic Authority and Communication: The council's decision, communicated via a formal letter, underscores the importance of clear, authoritative communication from church leadership to foster understanding and peace among believers. The delegates, including Paul and Barnabas, acted as official messengers, ensuring the message was received directly and accurately.

Linguistic Insights

The term "epistle" (Greek: epistolē) simply refers to a letter or written communication. In this context, it signifies a formal, authoritative document conveying the consensus and decision of the Jerusalem Council. Its delivery was not merely informational but carried the weight of the apostles' and elders' collective wisdom and spiritual discernment.

Practical Application

Acts 15:30 provides timeless lessons for believers today:

  • Addressing Disputes Biblically: When disagreements arise within the church, it is vital to approach them with humility, seeking scriptural guidance and the wisdom of mature leaders, much like the Jerusalem Council did.
  • Prioritizing Grace: The core message of the epistle—salvation by grace through faith—remains central to Christian doctrine (Ephesians 2:8-9). This reminds us to focus on the essentials of the Gospel rather than peripheral legalistic requirements.
  • Importance of Clear Communication: Effective and timely communication is crucial for maintaining peace and understanding within any community, especially the church. Leaders must ensure their decisions are clearly conveyed to avoid confusion and division.
Note: Commentary was generated by an advanced AI, utilizing a prompt that emphasized Biblical fidelity over bias. We've found these insights to be consistently reliable, yet we always encourage prayerful discernment through the Holy Spirit. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

  • Acts 6:2

    Then the twelve called the multitude of the disciples [unto them], and said, It is not reason that we should leave the word of God, and serve tables.

  • Acts 16:4

    And as they went through the cities, they delivered them the decrees for to keep, that were ordained of the apostles and elders which were at Jerusalem.

  • Acts 21:22

    What is it therefore? the multitude must needs come together: for they will hear that thou art come.

  • Acts 23:33

    Who, when they came to Caesarea, and delivered the epistle to the governor, presented Paul also before him.

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