Acts 18:15

But since it is a dispute about words and names and your own law, settle it yourselves. I refuse to be a judge of such things."

Study Bible

But since it is a dispute
The phrase "dispute" here is translated from the Greek word "zētēma," which implies a question or controversy. In the context of Acts 18, this refers to the internal disagreements among the Jews regarding their religious beliefs and practices. Historically, the early Christian movement often found itself at odds with Jewish authorities, as it challenged traditional interpretations of the law and the identity of the Messiah. This dispute highlights the tension between emerging Christianity and established Judaism, a recurring theme in the Acts of the Apostles.

about words and names
The "words and names" refer to theological and doctrinal issues, particularly concerning the identity of Jesus as the Messiah and the interpretation of the Scriptures. The Greek term "onomata" (names) suggests a focus on the significance of Jesus' name and titles, which were central to the early Christian proclamation. This reflects the broader historical context where names held deep spiritual and cultural significance, often representing authority and identity. The early church's insistence on the name of Jesus as the source of salvation was a point of contention with Jewish leaders.

and your own law
The phrase "your own law" indicates the Jewish law, or Torah, which was the foundation of Jewish religious life. The Greek word "nomos" is used here, emphasizing the legal and covenantal aspects of Jewish identity. In the historical context of Acts, the Roman authorities, represented by Gallio in this passage, were generally indifferent to internal Jewish religious disputes, as long as they did not disrupt public order. This reflects the broader Roman policy of allowing subject peoples to maintain their religious practices, provided they did not conflict with Roman law.

see to it yourselves
This directive from Gallio, the proconsul of Achaia, underscores the Roman practice of allowing local populations to handle their internal religious matters. The phrase "see to it yourselves" is a dismissal of the case, indicating that the Roman authorities did not wish to involve themselves in what they perceived as a purely religious issue. This reflects the historical reality of Roman governance, which often sought to maintain peace by avoiding interference in local religious disputes unless they threatened the stability of the region.

I refuse to be a judge of such things
Gallio's refusal to judge the matter highlights the Roman perspective on religious disputes, which were seen as outside the purview of civil law unless they posed a threat to public order. The Greek word "krinō" (judge) implies a legal decision or judgment. Gallio's stance is significant in the narrative of Acts, as it sets a precedent for the treatment of Christian disputes under Roman law. This decision allowed the early Christian movement to continue its mission with a degree of protection from Roman interference, as long as it remained within the bounds of civil peace.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Paul
A key figure in the early Christian church, Paul was a missionary and apostle who spread the Gospel throughout the Roman Empire. In Acts 18, he is in Corinth, preaching and teaching about Jesus Christ.

2. Gallio
The proconsul of Achaia, Gallio was a Roman official who presided over the tribunal where Paul was brought by the Jews. His decision in this verse reflects his disinterest in religious disputes.

3. Corinth
A major city in ancient Greece, Corinth was a significant center for commerce and culture. It was also known for its diverse population and various religious practices.

4. Jews of Corinth
They brought Paul before Gallio, accusing him of persuading people to worship God contrary to the law. Their complaint was rooted in religious, not civil, matters.

5. Tribunal
The place where legal matters were judged. In this context, it was where Gallio dismissed the case against Paul, indicating that it was a religious issue, not a legal one.

Teaching Points

Understanding Jurisdiction
Gallio's refusal to judge religious matters highlights the importance of understanding the appropriate jurisdiction for resolving disputes. Christians should discern when to handle issues within the church community.

Respect for Authority
Gallio's decision reflects the Roman Empire's policy of religious tolerance to a degree. Christians are called to respect governing authorities while understanding the limits of their jurisdiction.

Focus on the Gospel
Despite opposition, Paul remained focused on his mission to preach the Gospel. Believers today should remain steadfast in their faith and mission, even when facing challenges.

Handling Disputes Wisely
The early church faced many internal and external disputes. Christians are encouraged to handle disagreements with wisdom and seek resolution in a manner that honors God.

Cultural Sensitivity
Paul's experience in Corinth reminds us of the importance of being sensitive to cultural and religious contexts while sharing the Gospel.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Gallio's response in Acts 18:15 reflect the Roman Empire's approach to religious disputes, and what can we learn from this about handling conflicts within the church today?

2. In what ways does Paul's experience in Corinth, as described in Acts 18, encourage us to remain focused on our mission despite opposition?

3. How can we apply the principle of respecting authority, as seen in Gallio's decision, in our interactions with government and church leadership?

4. What steps can we take to ensure that disputes among believers are resolved in a manner that aligns with biblical teachings, as suggested in 1 Corinthians 6:1-6?

5. How can understanding the cultural and religious context of those we are ministering to, as Paul did in Corinth, enhance our effectiveness in sharing the Gospel?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Acts 23:29
Similar to Gallio's decision, this verse describes how Roman authorities often viewed disputes about Jewish law as outside their jurisdiction.

John 18:31
Pilate's response to the Jewish leaders about Jesus reflects a similar attitude to Gallio's, where Roman officials were reluctant to involve themselves in religious disputes.

1 Corinthians 6:1-6
Paul later advises the Corinthian church on resolving disputes among believers, emphasizing the importance of handling such matters within the church rather than in secular courts.