Acts 21:20

And when they heard it, they glorified the Lord, and said unto him, Thou seest, brother, how many thousands of Jews there are which believe; and they are all zealous of the law:

Acts 21:20 (KJV)

Context

Paul has returned to Jerusalem after his missionary journeys and meets with James and the elders of the church. He reports in detail what God had done among the Gentiles through his ministry (Acts 21:19).

Meaning

The elders respond by glorifying the Lord, recognizing that the growth among Jews was God’s work. They then tell Paul that many thousands of Jews have believed, and they are all zealous for the law. The Greek word translated “thousands” can mean “myriads” or “tens of thousands,” indicating a very large number. These Jewish believers were passionate upholders of the Mosaic Law.

The verse does not describe the believers’ observance of the law as a problem; rather, it sets up the elders’ counsel for Paul to join in a purification rite to demonstrate that he lives in observance of the law (Acts 21:23-24). The elders’ glorifying God shows their recognition that the growth among Jews was God’s work, and they gave Him the glory rather than being jealous of Paul’s instrumentality.

Application

Acts 21:20 underscores the importance of gratitude and unity within the early Christian community. It demonstrates that believers from different backgrounds can come together in shared praise for God’s work, encouraging modern Christians to seek common ground in worship while respecting each other’s histories. True piety rejoices in the spread of the gospel by whatever means God uses.

Reflection

Overall, the passage highlights the celebration of God’s salvific work and the potential for unity among believers, regardless of cultural or religious backgrounds.