Acts 24:17
Now after many years I came to bring alms to my nation, and offerings.
Original Language Analysis
δι'
after
G1223
δι'
after
Strong's:
G1223
Word #:
1 of 13
through (in very wide applications, local, causal, or occasional)
πλειόνων
many
G4119
πλειόνων
many
Strong's:
G4119
Word #:
4 of 13
more in quantity, number, or quality; also (in plural) the major portion
παρεγενόμην
I came
G3854
παρεγενόμην
I came
Strong's:
G3854
Word #:
5 of 13
to become near, i.e., approach (have arrived); by implication, to appear publicly
ἐλεημοσύνας
alms
G1654
ἐλεημοσύνας
alms
Strong's:
G1654
Word #:
6 of 13
compassionateness, i.e., (as exercised towards the poor) beneficence, or (concretely) a benefaction
ποιήσων
to bring
G4160
ποιήσων
to bring
Strong's:
G4160
Word #:
7 of 13
to make or do (in a very wide application, more or less direct)
εἰς
to
G1519
εἰς
to
Strong's:
G1519
Word #:
8 of 13
to or into (indicating the point reached or entered), of place, time, or (figuratively) purpose (result, etc.); also in adverbial phrases
τὸ
G3588
τὸ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
9 of 13
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
ἔθνος
nation
G1484
ἔθνος
nation
Strong's:
G1484
Word #:
10 of 13
a race (as of the same habit), i.e., a tribe; specially, a foreign (non-jewish) one (usually, by implication, pagan)
Cross References
Historical Context
This collection represented Paul's major project during his third missionary journey, demonstrating Gentile-Jewish unity in Christ. The substantial gift from predominantly Gentile churches to Jewish believers showed the gospel's reconciling power.
Questions for Reflection
- How does practical generosity across cultural boundaries demonstrate the gospel's transforming power?
- What does Paul's reference to this gift teach about letting good works speak as defense against accusations?
Analysis & Commentary
Paul's statement about bringing 'alms to my nation' referred to the collection from Gentile churches for Jerusalem's poor (Romans 15:25-27). This humanitarian mission directly refuted charges of sedition or anti-Jewish sentiment. The mention of 'offerings' indicates his participation in temple ceremonies, further demonstrating devotion to Jewish practice.