Acts 15:21

"but that we write to them that they abstain from the pollution of idols, from sexual immorality, from what is strangled, and from blood."

Key Reflection

This verse emphasizes the importance of avoiding practices associated with idolatry and sin, such as sexual immorality, consumption of strangled animals (which was seen as disrespectful to life), and blood (considered unclean in Jewish tradition). These instructions underscore the need for spiritual purity and separation from practices that could lead to moral corruption.

From the Scholars: Barnes' Notes

Verse 21. For Moses. The meaning of this verse is, that the law of Moses, prohibiting these things, was read in the synagogues constantly. As these commands were constantly read, and as the Jewish converts would not soon learn that their ceremonial law had ceased to be binding, it was deemed to be a matter of expediency that no needless offence should be given to them. For the sake of peace, it was better that they should abstain from meat offered to idols than to give offence to the Jewish converts. Comp. 1 Co 8:10-13. Of old time. Greek, From ancient generations.

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