Therefore do what we advise you. There are four men with us who have taken a vow.
The elders fell into foolish indulgence through too much love of their nation, but we cannot judge them fairly without knowing the circumstances they faced. Jerusalem was almost entirely Jewish, so they had greater reason to move slowly in abandoning the ceremonies. Ignorance was coupled with obstinacy, yet violent remedies would have done more harm.
AI summary
They travelled light, carrying their own bags like poor soldiers, perhaps bearing the collection for Jerusalem's poor. When Paul resolved to go despite their warnings, they would not abandon him; like Thomas toward Christ and Ittai toward David, they cleaved to him in danger.
AI summary
Commenting on Acts 21:15-26
This is advice, not command, and counsel for prudence rather than strict duty. These four were weak believers, zealous for the law and bigoted to it, who had made a Nazarite vow of their own will.
AI summary