New Testament
Acts 18:15
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
But since it is a question about words and names and your own law, see to it yourselves. I will not be a judge of such matters."
Compare translations
But if it be a question of words and names, and of your law, look ye to it; for I will be no judge of such matters.
What Acts 18:15 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this passage, Paul is confronted with a dispute that revolves around specific words, names, and the laws of the Jewish people. He recognizes that the issue at hand is not about a crime or wrongdoing but rather a matter of interpretation and belief. Paul decides to step back and not get involved in this debate, suggesting that the parties involved should resolve it themselves. This highlights his understanding of the limits of his role and authority. He is not there to judge personal beliefs or internal matters of the Jewish law. Instead, he focuses on his mission of spreading the message of hope and love. By doing so, Paul teaches us the importance of knowing when to engage and when to let others handle their own disputes. It’s a reminder that some conflicts are best resolved within the community rather than through external judgment. This approach encourages personal responsibility and self-governance in matters of faith and belief, allowing individuals to find their own paths.
How to apply Acts 18:15 to your life
When faced with conflicts that are deeply personal or rooted in belief, consider stepping back instead of trying to mediate. Encourage those involved to find their own solutions. This can foster growth and understanding within the community, allowing individuals to take ownership of their beliefs and decisions. Trust the process of self-resolution in matters of faith and values.
Curated for this public verse page. Acts Summary
Learn the Bible through its people and places
Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.
Illustrated scene from Paul's story: A Year and a Half in Corinth (Acts 18:1–17)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Paul
Photo: zeevveez, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY 2.0. Source. Location: Capernaum, on the northern shore of the Sea of Galilee. Resized for the web.
Explore the places of the Bible
See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.
Capernaum
Jesus' home base by the Sea of Galilee, and the town where Peter lived.
Get full access with one subscription
Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.
See PlansAsk AI about Acts 18:15
Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.
Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter
Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.
Keep studying Acts 18:15
Related Bible verses
Key themes
Related topics
At a Glance — the Book of Acts
- Author
- Luke the physician
- Written
- Around AD 62
- Genre
- Historical narrative
- Original Audience
- Gentile Christians (addressed to Theophilus)
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Acts 18:15 mean about Paul not judging disputes?
In Acts 18:15, Paul is approached with a dispute that involves Jewish law and interpretations. He recognizes that the issue is not about a crime but rather about personal beliefs and interpretations of the law. By choosing not to judge, Paul emphasizes the importance of self-governance in matters of faith, suggesting that individuals should resolve their own disputes rather than relying on external authorities.
How can Acts 18:15 guide us in handling personal conflicts?
Acts 18:15 teaches us that not all conflicts require external mediation. When faced with disputes that are deeply personal or rooted in belief, it can be beneficial to step back and allow those involved to find their own solutions. This approach fosters personal responsibility and encourages individuals to take ownership of their beliefs, ultimately leading to growth and understanding within the community.
What is the significance of Paul’s response in Acts 18:15?
Paul's response in Acts 18:15 highlights his understanding of his role and the limits of his authority. By refusing to judge a matter that pertains to personal beliefs and interpretations of the law, he reinforces the idea that some conflicts are best resolved internally. This reflects a broader principle of respecting individual beliefs and promoting self-resolution in matters of faith.
How does Acts 18:15 relate to community and faith?
Acts 18:15 underscores the importance of community in resolving disputes related to faith. By encouraging individuals to handle their own disagreements, Paul promotes a sense of responsibility and autonomy within the community. This approach allows for personal growth and deeper understanding, as individuals engage with their beliefs and values without external judgment.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.