Act 15:30-35 | JFB

Acts 15:30-35

31-33. they rejoiced for the consolation—As the same word is in Ac 15:31 properly rendered "exhorted," the meaning probably is "rejoiced for the exhortation" (Margin), or advice; so wise in itself and so contrary to the imposition attempted to be practiced upon them by the Judaizers.

32. Judas and Silas, being prophets themselves—that is, inspired teachers.

exhorted the brethren with many words—"much discourse."

and confirmed them—opening up, no doubt, the great principle involved in the controversy now settled, of gratuitous salvation, or the purification of the heart by faith alone (as expressed by Peter, Ac 15:9, 11), and dwelling on the necessity of harmony in principle and affection between the Gentile disciples and their Jewish brethren.

33. were let go in peace—with peace, as the customary parting salutation.

34, 35. it pleased Silas—Silas determined.

to abide there still—(The authorities against the insertion of this verse are strong. It may have been afterwards added to explain Ac 15:40). Doubtless the attraction to Antioch for Silas was Paul's presence there, to whom he seems to have now formed that permanent attachment which the sequel of this book and Paul's Epistles show to have existed.

35. Paul . . . and Barnabas continued in Antioch, teaching—to the disciples.

and preaching—to those without.

the word of the Lord, with many others—other laborers.

also—How rich must Antioch at this time have been in the ministrations of the Gospel! (For a painful scene on this occasion between Paul and Peter, see Ga 2:11-14).

Ac 15:36-46. DISSENSION BETWEEN PAUL AND BARNABAS—THEY PART COMPANY TO PROSECUTE SEPARATE MISSIONARY TOURS.