New Testament
Acts 21:20
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
When they heard this, they glorified the Lord and said to him, "You see, brother, how many thousands of Jews there are who have believed, and they are all zealous for the law.
Compare translations
And when they heard it, they glorified the Lord, and said unto him, Thou seest, brother, how many thousands of Jews there are which believe; and they are all zealous of the law:
What Acts 21:20 means
Plain-English insight for readers
When the leaders heard about the work being done, they praised God. They pointed out to Paul how many Jewish people had come to believe in Jesus. These believers were not just passive; they were passionate about their faith and the traditions of their ancestors. This shows that faith can coexist with cultural practices. The excitement in the room was palpable as they celebrated the growth of the community. It was a moment of unity, highlighting the importance of both faith and heritage. The leaders wanted Paul to understand the depth of this commitment among the Jewish believers. Their enthusiasm for the law reflected their desire to honor God while embracing their new faith. This moment illustrates how diverse backgrounds can come together in belief, creating a vibrant community of faith that respects tradition while embracing change. It reminds us that faith can be a powerful force for connection and transformation in our lives and communities, encouraging us to celebrate our shared beliefs.
How to apply Acts 21:20 to your life
Consider how your own background shapes your faith. Embrace the traditions that resonate with you while being open to new experiences. Celebrate the diversity of beliefs around you, and find ways to connect with others through shared values and passions. Your faith journey can inspire those around you to explore their own paths too. Remember, unity in diversity is powerful and enriching for everyone involved. It can lead to deeper understanding and stronger relationships.
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: Seized in the Temple (Acts 21:17–36)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Paul
Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002724966). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Bethlehem, West Bank; print preserved by the Library of Congress. 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.
Bethlehem
David's hometown, and the town where Jesus was born.
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 21:20
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 21:20
Related Bible verses
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 21:20 mean?
Acts 21:20 highlights the joy and excitement of the leaders as they recognize the growth of Jewish believers in Jesus. They celebrate how these individuals are passionate about their faith and traditions, showing that faith can coexist with cultural practices.
What is the significance of the Jewish believers in Acts 21:20?
The Jewish believers mentioned in Acts 21:20 represent a significant movement within the early church, demonstrating that many people from diverse backgrounds can embrace faith in Jesus while still valuing their cultural heritage.
What does 'zealous for the law' mean in Acts 21:20?
'Zealous for the law' in Acts 21:20 refers to the strong commitment and passion that the Jewish believers have for their religious traditions and practices, indicating that they are actively engaged in their faith.
How does Acts 21:20 relate to faith and tradition?
Acts 21:20 illustrates that faith in Jesus can coexist with traditional practices. It shows that believers can honor their cultural heritage while fully embracing their new faith, creating a rich and diverse community.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.