And to this agree the words of the prophets; as it is written,
The apostles took nothing for themselves but reverently followed Scripture's prescription. When James cites the prophets in plural yet quotes one passage, he signifies their perfect agreement: they all speak with one mouth, the Spirit of God speaking in them all. What one prophet utters belongs to their common testimony.
AI summary
We have here a council called, not by writ, but by consent, on this occasion (Act 15:6): The apostles and presbyters came together, to consider this matter. They did not give their judgment separately, but came together to do it, that they might hear one another's sense in this matter; for in the multitude of counsellors there is safety and satisfaction.
Commenting on Acts 15:6-21
The prophets speak plainly in many places of the Gentiles' calling, yet James produced one testimony instead of many. This follows the Jewish custom of citing Scripture: where multiple passages teach the same doctrine, producing one in place of many suffices.
AI summary