Acts 21:17

KJV

And when we were come to Jerusalem, the brethren received us gladly.

KJV (with Strong's)

And {G1161} when we {G2257} were come {G1096} to {G1519} Jerusalem {G2414}, the brethren {G80} received {G1209} us {G2248} gladly {G780}.

Complete Jewish Bible

In Yerushalayim, the brothers received us warmly.

Berean Standard Bible

When we arrived in Jerusalem, the brothers welcomed us joyfully.

American Standard Version

And when we were come to Jerusalem, the brethren received us gladly.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Acts 21:17 records the long-anticipated arrival of the Apostle Paul and his companions in Jerusalem, marking the culmination of his third missionary journey and the delivery of the collection for the saints. Despite numerous prophetic warnings of impending suffering, Paul’s entry into the heart of Jewish Christianity is met with an immediate and warm reception from the local believers, signifying a moment of genuine fellowship and welcome within the early church community.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse immediately follows a series of poignant farewells and dire prophecies concerning Paul's fate in Jerusalem. In [Acts 20:22-24](/acts/20-22-24 "Acts 20:22-24 - Paul's Resolve to Go to Jerusalem"), Paul declares his resolute intention to go to Jerusalem, "bound in the spirit," despite knowing that "bonds and afflictions" await him. This resolve is reinforced by the prophet Agabus in [Acts 21:10-11](/acts/21-10-11 "Acts 21:10-11 - Agabus's Prophecy"), who dramatically illustrates Paul's impending arrest. The preceding verses ([Acts 21:1-16](/acts/21-1-16 "Acts 21:1-16 - Journey to Jerusalem")) detail the final leg of the journey, highlighting the deep emotional bond between Paul and the churches he visited, as well as their earnest attempts to dissuade him from his perilous course. Thus, [Acts 21:17](/acts/21-17 "Acts 21:17 - Paul's Arrival in Jerusalem") serves as the direct fulfillment of Paul's determined journey, transitioning from the warnings and journey narrative to the actual events within Jerusalem.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Paul's arrival in Jerusalem was fraught with significance. Jerusalem was the birthplace of the church, home to the original apostles and a strong community of Jewish believers, many of whom still adhered closely to Jewish law and customs. Paul, on the other hand, was the "apostle to the Gentiles," whose ministry emphasized salvation by grace through faith, often leading to misunderstandings and accusations that he taught Jews to forsake the Law. His visit was partly to deliver a collection from the Gentile churches for the poor saints in Jerusalem ([Romans 15:25-27](/romans/15-25-27 "Romans 15:25-27 - The Collection for Jerusalem")), a tangible expression of unity and love between Jewish and Gentile believers. Culturally, hospitality was paramount in the ancient Near East, especially among fellow believers. Welcoming traveling missionaries and brethren was not merely a courtesy but a sacred duty, reflecting the communal nature of early Christian life.

* **Key Themes:** [Acts 21:17](/acts/21-17 "Acts 21:17 - Paul's Arrival in Jerusalem") contributes to several overarching themes in the book of Acts. Firstly, it underscores the **unity and fellowship** within the early Christian community, demonstrating that despite theological and cultural tensions, the bond of Christ transcended differences, at least initially. The "glad reception" highlights the ideal of Christian **hospitality** and mutual support, a vital practice for the nascent church's growth and survival. Secondly, this verse marks a critical **transition point** in Paul's ministry, signaling the end of his extensive missionary journeys and the beginning of a new phase characterized by arrest, trials, and his eventual journey to Rome as a prisoner, fulfilling the prophetic warnings previously given (e.g., [Acts 9:16](/acts/9-16 "Acts 9:16 - God's Plan for Paul's Suffering")). It also subtly introduces the theme of **perseverance in the face of adversity**, as Paul, fully aware of the dangers, steadfastly pursues his calling to bear witness in Jerusalem.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **come (Greek, _gínomai'_):** This verb, G1096, signifies "to cause to be" or "to become," indicating the actualization or occurrence of an event. In this context, it emphasizes the literal arrival of Paul and his company in Jerusalem, marking the physical culmination of their journey. It's not merely a passive state but an active "coming into being" at that specific location.
* **received (Greek, _déchomai'_):** G1209, a middle voice verb, means "to receive" in various applications, often implying a willing and active acceptance. It suggests more than a casual greeting; it conveys a welcoming embrace, an active taking in of Paul and his companions into their fellowship and care. This "receiving" is contrasted with the later rejection and hostility Paul would face from other factions in Jerusalem.
* **gladly (Greek, _asménōs'_):** G780, an adverb derived from a root meaning "pleasure," conveys a sense of eagerness, delight, and a hearty welcome. It indicates that the reception was not merely polite or obligatory, but genuinely joyful and enthusiastic. This word highlights the warmth and positive sentiment of the Jerusalem believers towards Paul and his group, emphasizing their shared spiritual bond.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And when we were come to Jerusalem":** This clause establishes the setting and the primary action. The "we" indicates Luke, the author of Acts, was part of Paul's traveling party, lending an eyewitness authenticity to the account. Their arrival in Jerusalem is the long-anticipated climax of the journey, following numerous warnings and detours. It signifies the physical entry into the very heart of the early Christian movement, a place of immense spiritual and historical significance.
* **"the brethren received us gladly":** This second clause describes the immediate response to their arrival. "The brethren" refers to the Christian community in Jerusalem, fellow believers in Christ. The phrase "received us gladly" conveys a sense of genuine warmth, hospitality, and acceptance. It speaks to the strong bonds of fellowship that existed among early Christians, even across geographical and cultural divides. This initial welcome stands in stark contrast to the troubles that would soon follow for Paul in the city.

#### Literary Devices
The verse employs **Narrative Progression** by marking a significant turning point in Paul's journey, transitioning from travel and prophecy to the unfolding events in Jerusalem. The use of the first-person plural "we" is an example of **Eyewitness Account**, a hallmark of Luke's writing, which lends credibility and immediacy to the narrative. The phrase "received us gladly" utilizes **Emotive Language**, conveying the strong positive sentiment of the Jerusalem believers and highlighting the theme of Christian fellowship and hospitality. This initial warmth also creates a subtle **Foreshadowing** by setting up a contrast with the subsequent hostility Paul would face from other Jewish factions, making the "glad" reception a poignant, albeit temporary, moment of peace.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Acts 21:17 beautifully illustrates the enduring power of Christian fellowship and the vital practice of hospitality within the body of Christ. Despite the theological and cultural tensions that sometimes existed between Jewish and Gentile believers, this moment underscores a foundational truth: shared faith in Jesus Christ transcends all human-made divisions. The "glad reception" serves as a powerful reminder that the church, at its best, is a welcoming community where believers are united by love and mutual support, eager to embrace those who serve Christ, even when their ministry takes them to challenging places. This initial welcome reflects the ideal of unity that Christ prayed for and the apostles strived to maintain.

* [Romans 15:7](/romans/15-7 "Romans 15:7 - Welcome One Another")
* [Hebrews 13:2](/hebrews/13-2 "Hebrews 13:2 - Do Not Neglect Hospitality")
* [1 Peter 4:9](/1_peter/4-9 "1 Peter 4:9 - Practice Hospitality")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Acts 21:17 offers a compelling snapshot of genuine Christian community, reminding us of the profound joy and strength found in welcoming one another in the name of Christ. In a world often marked by division and isolation, the "glad reception" of Paul by the Jerusalem brethren serves as a powerful call to cultivate radical hospitality within our own churches and personal lives. It challenges us to look beyond superficial differences, embrace fellow believers with sincere joy, and extend a hand of fellowship to those who are serving God, especially those who may be weary or facing trials. This verse encourages us to be active participants in creating environments where all feel seen, valued, and genuinely welcomed, reflecting the inclusive love of Christ. It also reminds us that even when we anticipate difficulties, the presence of supportive brethren can be a source of immense encouragement and spiritual refreshment.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does my church community actively practice "glad reception" to newcomers, visitors, and those serving in challenging ministries?**
* **In what ways can I personally extend genuine hospitality and welcome to fellow believers, especially those from different backgrounds or with differing perspectives?**
* **What does it mean to "receive gladly" someone who is facing hardship or opposition for their faith, and how can I embody that welcome?**
* **How does the initial joy of this welcome in Acts 21:17 speak to the importance of fellowship, even when difficult times are known to lie ahead?**

### FAQ
**Was Paul's arrival in Jerusalem truly "glad" given the warnings he received?**

Answer: Yes, [Acts 21:17](/acts/21-17 "Acts 21:17 - Paul's Arrival in Jerusalem") explicitly states that "the brethren received us gladly." This refers to the immediate welcome from the local Christian community in Jerusalem, who were fellow believers. While Paul had indeed received numerous warnings about suffering and imprisonment awaiting him in Jerusalem (e.g., [Acts 20:22-23](/acts/20-22-23 "Acts 20:22-23 - Paul's Resolve") and [Acts 21:10-11](/acts/21-10-11 "Acts 21:10-11 - Agabus's Prophecy")), these warnings did not come from the believers who initially welcomed him. Rather, they were prophetic insights into the opposition he would face from *other* factions, particularly unbelieving Jews who opposed his Gentile ministry. The "glad reception" highlights the genuine fellowship and unity among Christians, even as it foreshadows the trials Paul would soon endure from those outside the Christian community.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
While [Acts 21:17](/acts/21-17 "Acts 21:17 - Paul's Arrival in Jerusalem") describes a human act of hospitality, it subtly points to the ultimate welcome offered by Christ. The "glad reception" Paul received from the brethren in Jerusalem mirrors the divine welcome extended to all who come to God through faith in Jesus. Just as Paul, weary from his journey and facing impending trials, found solace in the embrace of fellow believers, so too does Christ offer rest and acceptance to those who are heavy-laden ([Matthew 11:28](/matthew/11-28 "Matthew 11:28 - Come to Me")). This initial welcome in Jerusalem, a city often associated with rejection and the crucifixion of the Messiah, foreshadows the ultimate reality that in Christ, there is no longer Jew or Gentile, slave or free, male or female, for all are one in Him ([Galatians 3:28](/galatians/3-28 "Galatians 3:28 - One in Christ")). The "gladness" of the reception reflects the joy in heaven over one sinner who repents ([Luke 15:7](/luke/15-7 "Luke 15:7 - Joy Over Repentance")), and the open arms of the Jerusalem church prefigure the eternal welcome into God's presence, made possible by the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world ([John 1:29](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God")). Thus, this human act of fellowship becomes a tangible expression of the divine hospitality and grace found supremely in Jesus 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 15:4

And when they were come to Jerusalem, they were received of the church, and [of] the apostles and elders, and they declared all things that God had done with them.

Romans 15:7

¶ Wherefore receive ye one another, as Christ also received us to the glory of God.

Hebrews 13:1

¶ Let brotherly love continue.

Hebrews 13:2

Be not forgetful to entertain strangers: for thereby some have entertained angels unawares.

3 John 1:7

Because that for his name's sake they went forth, taking nothing of the Gentiles.

3 John 1:8

We therefore ought to receive such, that we might be fellowhelpers to the truth.

Acts 21:7

And when we had finished [our] course from Tyre, we came to Ptolemais, and saluted the brethren, and abode with them one day.