Acts 21:17
And when we were come to Jerusalem, the brethren received us gladly.
Original Language Analysis
Γενομένων
were come
G1096
Γενομένων
were come
Strong's:
G1096
Word #:
1 of 10
to cause to be ("gen"-erate), i.e., (reflexively) to become (come into being), used with great latitude (literal, figurative, intensive, etc.)
εἰς
to
G1519
εἰς
to
Strong's:
G1519
Word #:
4 of 10
to or into (indicating the point reached or entered), of place, time, or (figuratively) purpose (result, etc.); also in adverbial phrases
Ἱεροσόλυμα
Jerusalem
G2414
Ἱεροσόλυμα
Jerusalem
Strong's:
G2414
Word #:
5 of 10
hierosolyma (i.e., jerushalaim), the capitol of palestine
ἐδέξαντο
received
G1209
ἐδέξαντο
received
Strong's:
G1209
Word #:
7 of 10
to receive (in various applications, literally or figuratively)
Historical Context
This arrival occurred around AD 57, roughly 25 years after the Jerusalem church's founding. James now led the Jerusalem church, Peter having departed after his miraculous prison escape (Acts 12:17).
Questions for Reflection
- How can you maintain warm fellowship with believers who differ on secondary theological issues?
- What does this passage teach about pursuing unity while holding different perspectives on cultural practices?
Analysis & Commentary
The 'brethren' in Jerusalem received Paul 'gladly,' showing the church's unity despite ongoing tensions between Jewish and Gentile believers. This reception would prove crucial as Paul faced accusations from zealous Jewish Christians. The Greek 'asmenōs' (gladly) suggests enthusiastic welcome, demonstrating love that transcended theological disagreements about the law.