Acts 15:33

33 And after they had spent some time, they were sent off 1in peace by 2the brothers to those who had sent them.[a]

Acts 15:33 Meaning and Commentary

Acts 15:33

And after they had tarried there a space
How long is not certain; the Arabic version renders it "a year"; and it is probable enough, they might stay there so long, till things were thoroughly settled, which were thrown into great disorder and confusion, by the pleaders for circumcision:

they were let go in peace;
that is, they were dismissed, and went away with the leave and consent of the church; who returned them thanks for the service and good offices they had done them, and wished them all peace, prosperity, and happiness, both in soul and body, and great success in their ministrations wherever they went: and as they were dismissed in peace, they left the church in perfect peace; an end being put to the controversy about circumcision, which was raised among them; and the members of the church being agreed in their sentiments, and heartily united in their affections to one another: and thus Judas and Silas were honourably dismissed

from the brethren,
at Antioch,

to the Apostles,
at Jerusalem; the Alexandrian copy, and Beza's ancient copy, the Vulgate Latin, and Ethiopic versions, read, "to them that sent them"; and so include, with the apostles, the elders, and brethren at Jerusalem, who wrote the letter to the church at Antioch, and sent it by them; and it was proper that they should return to them, and give them an account of the success of it, how it was received, and what good it had done.

Acts 15:33 In-Context

31 And when they had read it, they rejoiced because of its encouragement.
32 And Judas and Silas, who were themselves prophets, encouraged and strengthened the brothers with many words.
33 And after they had spent some time, they were sent off in peace by the brothers to those who had sent them.
35 But Paul and Barnabas remained in Antioch, teaching and preaching the word of the Lord, with many others also.

Cross References 2

  • 1. Genesis 26:29; Hebrews 11:31; [1 Corinthians 16:11]
  • 2. [See ver. 32 above]

Footnotes 1

  • [a]. Some manuscripts insert verse 34: But it seemed good to Silas to remain there
The English Standard Version is published with the permission of Good News Publishers.