When we had come to Jerusalem, the brothers received us gladly.
Luke records their gladness to show how James and the elders resisted false reports and malicious rumors against Paul. Though envious men constantly tried to bring him into disrepute, these leaders knew his integrity and received him as Christ's servant. We must learn this caution: do not swallow wicked reports about faithful ministers, especially those we have tested and found to serve God truly, for Satan spreads poisonous insinuations to fracture the Church.
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
The brothers welcomed Paul and his company not coldly or with resentment, but readily and cheerfully. This happened notwithstanding the various rumors about his ministry among the Gentiles that had been spread in Jerusalem. Their reception showed they did not credit the malicious reports against him.
AI summary