Acts 15:33
“And after they had tarried there a space, they were let go in peace from the brethren unto the apostles.”
Context:And after they had tarried there a space, they were let go in peace from the brethren unto the apostles. Acts 15:33 (KJV)
This verse is a part of the narrative found in Acts 15, which describes the Council of Jerusalem. The Council of Jerusalem was a significant event in the early Christian Church where leaders gathered to discuss the requirements for Gentile (non-Jewish) believers in the context of salvation and adherence to the Mosaic Law.
To understand Acts 15:33 better, let’s provide some context by examining the preceding verses:
Acts 15:30-32 (KJV):
“So when they were dismissed, they came to Antioch: and when they had gathered the multitude together, they delivered the epistle: Which when they had read, they rejoiced for the consolation. And Judas and Silas, being prophets also themselves, exhorted the brethren with many words, and confirmed them.”
In these verses, we see that Judas and Silas, who were chosen by the Jerusalem Council to accompany Paul and Barnabas back to Antioch, delivered a letter to the church in Antioch. The letter contained the decisions reached by the apostles and elders at the Council regarding the requirements for Gentile believers. When the letter was read to the congregation, it brought joy and consolation to the believers.
Now, let’s focus on Acts 15:33 itself:
“After they had tarried there a space, they were let go in peace from the brethren unto the apostles.”
This verse reveals that Judas and Silas, having completed their mission in Antioch, were ready to return to Jerusalem. They had stayed for a certain period in Antioch, likely to strengthen and encourage the believers through their teaching and exhortation. The phrase “they were let go in peace” indicates that they were released and sent off by the brethren in Antioch with blessings and good wishes.
The phrase “unto the apostles” suggests that Judas and Silas were sent back to Jerusalem to report to the apostles and elders, providing them with an account of what had transpired in Antioch, particularly the reception of the letter and the response of the believers there.
Overall, Acts 15:33 provides a glimpse into the conclusion of Judas and Silas’ mission in Antioch. It underscores the importance of unity and cooperation between the different churches in the early Christian community, as well as the role of communication and reporting among the leaders and disciples of the early Church.
