Definition: And when they were come to Jerusalem, they were received of the church, and [of] the apostles and elders, and they declared all things that God had done with them.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Acts 15:4. It’s a really important part of how the early Christian community started to understand and share what happened after Jesus’ death and resurrection. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: Basically, it says: “After they came to Jerusalem, the believers welcomed them with open arms, and they shared everything God had done during Jesus’ time.” Let's unpack that a little further: “They were come to Jerusalem…” – This refers to the early Christian community who were traveling from different places around the world. They were on their way to the city of Jerusalem, which was a very important and significant place for them. “…they were received of the church…” - “The church” is the group of believers that had gathered together – it’s like a family or community of people who shared the same faith. They welcomed and accepted these travelers. “and [of] the apostles and elders…” – This names two key leaders in the early Christian community: the apostles (those who were chosen to deliver God's message) and the elders (older, experienced members). “…and they declared all things that God had done with them.” - This is the really important part. They weren’t just passively listening; they shared everything that God had done – meaning, they were telling everyone what happened during Jesus' life and ministry. This includes: God’s miracles: Things like healing people, raising the dead, and showing amazing power. His forgiveness: They were remembering God's love and mercy for those who believed in Him. So, it’s a story of gratitude and remembrance. The believers are acknowledging that God was working powerfully through Jesus, and they are celebrating that incredible work with each other. Why is this important? This verse shows how the early church started to understand that God's plan was unfolding in a tangible way – through his actions and miracles. It’s a foundational moment in Christian history that reminds us of the power and importance of faith. --- Do you want me to: Explain another part of this verse? Give you some context about what happened around that time?

Definition: And Paul chose Silas, and departed, being recommended by the brethren unto the grace of God.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Acts 15:40 together. It’s a really important part of understanding Paul's journey and his perspective. Here’s what it means in simple terms: Basically, Paul was going to leave, but he was being guided by others. Let's unpack that a little: “Paul chose Silas…” This tells us that Paul was already planning to travel. He had a plan and a group of people he was thinking about. “…and departed…” This means he stopped going forward. It’s like he made a decision to stop moving on his route. “being recommended by the brethren unto the grace of God.” This is the key part. "The brethren" refers to Paul's fellow believers – the people who supported and helped him. “Recommended” means they were telling him that it was good for him to go on this journey. "The grace of God" refers to God’s favor or blessing, which is important because it suggests a divine reason why he was being recommended. So, what does it all mean? Paul was being encouraged by his fellow believers to continue his mission. He felt like God was guiding him and that it was right for him to go on this journey. It’s a sign that he’s trusting in God's plan and that he’s being supported by those around him. In short, it’s a story of faith and guidance from community. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse? Give you some context about the time Paul was traveling? Answer any specific questions you have about this passage?

Definition: And he went through Syria and Cilicia, confirming the churches.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down that verse from Acts 15:41. It’s a really important part of how Jesus started his ministry! Here's what it means in simple terms: Basically, Jesus was traveling around – specifically to Syria and Cilicia – and he was actively supporting and helping the churches that were already established there. Let's unpack that a little further: “He went through…” : This just means he moved from one place to another. “…Syria and Cilicia” : These are two specific regions in the Middle East (modern-day Turkey and Syria). These were important areas for early Christians. "...confirming the churches." : This is the key part! “Confirming” means making sure things were okay, that the churches were healthy and thriving. So, Jesus was actively looking after and strengthening the Christian communities in these regions. It shows he cared about their well-being and was working to help them grow and prosper. Why is this important? This act of traveling and supporting the churches established in Syria and Cilicia is often seen as a sign that Jesus was beginning his ministry – starting to actively work with and guide these early believers. Does that make sense? Do you want me to explain anything further or perhaps give an example of how this might have happened?