Acts 21:17

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

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

In Yerushalayim, the brothers received us warmly.

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

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

Commentary

Acts 21:17 marks a pivotal moment in the Apostle Paul's final journey to Jerusalem, concluding his third missionary tour. After years of evangelizing among the Gentiles, he arrives in the heartland of early Christianity, anticipating both fellowship and potential peril.

Context of Acts 21:17

This verse immediately follows Paul's difficult decision to proceed to Jerusalem despite numerous warnings from prophets and fellow believers about suffering and imprisonment that awaited him there (see Acts 20:22-23 and Agabus's specific prophecy in Acts 21:10-11). Paul's companions, including Luke (the author of Acts, indicated by the "we"), were with him. His primary purpose for this visit was not only to report on his ministry but also to deliver a significant financial collection from the Gentile churches for the poor believers in Jerusalem, symbolizing unity between Jewish and Gentile Christians (cf. Romans 15:25-27).

Key Themes and Messages

  • Warm Reception and Fellowship: The phrase "the brethren received us gladly" highlights the immediate warmth and acceptance Paul and his company experienced from the Jerusalem church. This initial welcome underscores the bond of Christian fellowship, even amidst potential theological and cultural differences between Jewish and Gentile believers. It speaks to the ideal of unity within the early Christian community.
  • Hospitality: The glad reception demonstrates the vital practice of hospitality, a hallmark of early Christian life. Welcoming traveling missionaries and fellow believers was a practical expression of love and support within the nascent church.
  • Culmination of a Journey: This arrival marks the end of Paul's extensive missionary journeys recorded in Acts and the beginning of a new, challenging phase involving his arrest, trials, and eventual journey to Rome.

Linguistic Insight

The Greek word translated "gladly" is asmenōs (ἀσμένως), which conveys a sense of eagerness, delight, and a hearty welcome. It's more than a mere polite greeting; it suggests a genuine joy at the arrival of Paul and his companions, acknowledging their shared faith and mission.

Practical Application

Acts 21:17 serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of Christian community and the virtue of hospitality. For believers today:

  • Welcome Others: It encourages us to extend a warm and genuine welcome to fellow believers, especially those who may be serving in challenging ministries or coming from different backgrounds.
  • Value Fellowship: The verse emphasizes the joy and strength found in Christian fellowship, where believers can share burdens, celebrate victories, and encourage one another in faith.
  • Perseverance in Ministry: Despite the dangers Paul knew awaited him, he pressed on. His unwavering commitment, initially met with gladness, inspires perseverance in our own callings, even when challenges loom.
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Cross-References

  • Acts 15:4 (5 votes)

    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 (3 votes)

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

  • Hebrews 13:1 (3 votes)

    ¶ Let brotherly love continue.

  • Hebrews 13:2 (3 votes)

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

  • 3 John 1:7 (2 votes)

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

  • 3 John 1:8 (2 votes)

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

  • Acts 21:7 (2 votes)

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