ACTS 21:15–26
PAUL IN JERUSALEM AND HIS RESPECT FOR JEWISH BELIEVERS
Text – Acts 21:15–26
15 After these days, we made preparations for our journey and went up to Jerusalem.
16 Some of the disciples from Caesarea also went with us and brought us to the house of Mnason of Cyprus, an early disciple, with whom we were to stay.
17 When we reached Jerusalem the brothers welcomed us warmly.
18 The next day Paul went in with us to James, and all the presbyters were present.
19 He greeted them and then proceeded to report in detail what God had done among the Gentiles through his ministry.
20 When they heard this they praised God. Then they said to him, “You see, brother, how many thousands of Jews have come to believe, and they are all zealous for the law.
21 They have been informed that you are teaching all the Jews who live among the Gentiles to forsake Moses, telling them not to circumcise their children or observe the customary practices.
22 What is to be done? They will surely hear that you have arrived.
23 So do what we tell you. We have four men who have taken a vow.
24 Take these men and purify yourself along with them and pay their expenses, so that they may shave their heads. Thus everyone will know that there is nothing to the reports about you, but that you yourself live in observance of the law.
25 As for the Gentiles who have come to believe, we have sent them our decision that they should avoid meat sacrificed to idols, blood, what is strangled, and unlawful marriage.”
26 So Paul took the men, and on the next day, after purifying himself along with them, entered the temple to give notice of the days of purification, until the offering was made for each one of them.
Historical and Jewish Context
Jerusalem remained the spiritual heart of Jewish faith, and many Jewish Christians continued to observe the Mosaic Law as an expression of covenant identity. Participation in vows and purification rituals was a respected Jewish practice, symbolizing dedication to God. Rumors about Paul reflect real tensions within the early Church regarding Jewish customs and Gentile freedom. James, as leader of the Jerusalem Church, represents continuity between Israel’s heritage and the new life in Christ.
Catholic Theological Perspective
This passage highlights pastoral sensitivity and ecclesial unity. Paul’s actions do not compromise the Gospel of grace; rather, they express charity and respect for Jewish believers. Christian freedom is not self-assertion but loving accommodation when truth is not at stake. The Church is shown as both universal and rooted in particular cultures. Unity is preserved through dialogue, humility, and obedience to legitimate authority within the Church.
Parallels in Scripture
Acts 15:19–29 – The Jerusalem decree
1 Corinthians 9:20 – Becoming as a Jew to win Jews
Romans 14:19 – Pursuing peace and mutual upbuilding
Galatians 2:11–14 – Tensions in Jewish-Gentile relations
Matthew 5:17 – Fulfillment of the Law in Christ
Key Terms
James and the presbyters – Leadership of the Jerusalem Church
Zealous for the law – Faith expressed through tradition
Vow and purification – Jewish acts of devotion
Rumors – Threats to unity
Decision for the Gentiles – Apostolic discernment
Entered the temple – Respect for sacred tradition
Catholic Liturgical Significance
Acts 21:15–26 is proclaimed during the Easter Season, teaching the faithful how unity in the Church is preserved through humility, respect, and obedience guided by charity.
Conclusion
Acts 21:15–26 shows Paul as a bridge-builder within the Church. By respecting Jewish customs without denying the Gospel, he demonstrates that unity is preserved not by uniformity, but by love rooted in truth.
Reflection
How do I balance personal freedom with sensitivity to others’ faith?
Do I seek unity in the Church through humility and dialogue?
Am I willing to set aside personal preference for the sake of peace?
Prayer
Lord God, You call Your Church to unity in diversity. Grant me a humble heart, respect for tradition, and love for all believers, so that I may always seek peace and build up the Body of Christ. Amen.