Acts 15:29

Than these necessary things (plhn toutwn twn epanagke). This old adverb (from epi and anagkh) means on compulsion, of necessity. Here only in the N.T. For discussion of these items see on verses Matthew 20 and 21 . In comparison with the freedom won this "burden" is light and not to be regarded as a compromise in spite of the arguments of Lightfoot and Ramsay. It was such a concession as any converted Gentile would be glad to make even if "things strangled" be included. This "necessity" was not a matter of salvation but only for fellowship between Jews and Gentiles. The Judaizers made the law of Moses essential to salvation ( Matthew 15:16 ). It shall be well with you (eu praxete). Ye shall fare well. A classical idiom used here effectively. The peace and concord in the fellowship of Jews and Gentiles will justify any slight concession on the part of the Gentiles. This letter is not laid down as a law, but it is the judgment of the Jerusalem Christians for the guidance of the Gentiles ( Matthew 16:4 ) and it had a fine effect at once ( Matthew 15:30-35 ). Trouble did come later from the Judaizers who were really hostile to the agreement in Jerusalem, but that opposition in no way discredits the worth of the work of this Conference. No sane agreement will silence perpetual and professional disturbers like these Judaizers who will seek to unsettle Paul's work in Antioch, in Corinth, in Galatia, in Jerusalem, in Rome. Fare ye well (Errwsqe). Valete. Perfect passive imperative of rwnnumi, to make strong. Common at the close of letters. Be made strong, keep well, fare well. Here alone in the N.T. though some MSS. have it in Matthew 23:30 .