Acts 21:25

As for the Gentile believers, we have written to them our decision that they must abstain from food sacrificed to idols, from blood, from the meat of strangled animals, and from sexual immorality.”

Berean Standard Bible

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Study note

Setting — Paul addresses the Jerusalem elders following his report of Gentile ministry, responding to their directive regarding the four men undergoing purification. The words — ἐπεστείλαμεν (epesteilamen) translates literally as "we wrote to," and κρίναντες (krinantes) means "having adjudged." These verbs establish the letter as a formal written judgment. The thread — The verse directly reiterates the Jerusalem council's decree recorded in Acts 15:19 and matches the exact prohibitions listed in Acts 15:29. Why it lands — The text instructs Gentile believers to abstain from idol food, blood, strangled meat, and sexual immorality to maintain unity with Jewish Christians. Readers must apply these boundaries as practical measures for church harmony rather than as salvific requirements.

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The Greek words

King James Version

As touching the Gentiles which believe, we have written and concluded that they observe no such thing, save only that they keep themselves from things offered to idols, and from blood, and from strangled, and from fornication.

Cross-references

Acts 15:29 You must abstain from food sacrificed to idols, from blood, from the meat of strangled animals, and from sexual immorality. You will do well to avoid these things. Farewell.
Acts 15:19 It is my judgment, therefore, that we should not cause trouble for the Gentiles who are turning to God.