men who have risked their lives for the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.
English Standard Version (ESV)
This verse isn't just a commendation; it's a powerful argument. By highlighting that Paul and Barnabas "hazarded their lives" for Christ, the Jerusalem council is implicitly saying their radical message about Gentile inclusion must be true, because these men wouldn't risk everything for a lie. It reveals that the cost of their convictions made their ministry undeniable to even those who questioned them.
men who have risked their lives for the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.
English Standard Version (ESV)
The apostles and elders in Jerusalem are addressing a dispute that arose when some believers insisted that Gentile converts must be circumcised and follow the Mosaic Law. To resolve this, they send a letter and delegates, including Paul and Barnabas, back to the church in Antioch, commending Paul and Barnabas as men who have already risked their lives for Jesus' name. This highlights their dedication and authority, helping to validate the council's decision and combat the false teachings that had troubled the Gentile believers.
Ever feel like you're putting everything on the line for something you believe in? The apostles did, and the phrase used here is incredibly powerful.
The Greek word used here, "paradidomi," means to 'hand over,' 'deliver up,' or 'surrender.' When applied to their lives, it signifies a willingness to completely give themselves over, even unto death, for the sake of Jesus. It wasn't just about facing danger; it was a readiness to surrender their very existence for His name. This wasn't a fleeting moment of bravery, but a consistent disposition born from deep conviction.
We often use 'names' casually, but in the ancient world, a name carried immense weight and authority. What did 'the name of our Lord Jesus Christ' truly represent to these early believers?
To risk lives 'for the name of our Lord Jesus Christ' meant more than just defending a title. It meant standing up for His divine authority, His messianic claims, His unique identity as Savior, and the very core of His gospel message. It was about defending His honor and the truth of His work in the world. This wasn't a minor point; it was the central truth for which they were willing to lay down everything.
In a time of intense debate and distrust, why did the council emphasize the personal sacrifices of Paul and Barnabas?
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The leaders in Jerusalem needed to affirm Paul and Barnabas, especially as false teachers had tried to undermine them. By highlighting their willingness to risk their lives, the council provided a powerful, undeniable testimony to their authenticity and the divine calling on their ministry. It wasn't just about their doctrine; it was about their demonstrated, costly commitment. This commendation aimed to build confidence and ensure their message was received with the authority God had given them.
Understand the original words
paradēdōkosin · Greek Verb
To offer up or expose to danger or death for the sake of a higher cause or devotion. It implies a voluntary dedication of one's own existence for another.
onoma · Greek Noun
In the biblical sense, this denotes the totality of God's character, authority, and revelation. It is the manifestation of the presence and power of the divine person to whom it belongs.
This verse highlights the immense risks Paul and Barnabas had already faced, serving as a powerful testament to their character and commitment. Their willingness to risk their lives underscores the seriousness of the debate at the Jerusalem Council regarding the inclusion of Gentiles in the early church.
c. AD 46-48
Paul and Barnabas' First Missionary Journey
Paul and Barnabas travel through Asia Minor, facing significant opposition and danger as they preach the gospel and establish churches. This journey includes events like the stoning of Paul in Lystra.
c. AD 49— this verse
Council of Jerusalem Convenes
A pivotal meeting where apostles and elders, including Paul and Barnabas, gather to address the issue of Gentile believers and the requirement of circumcision and adherence to Mosaic law.
c. AD 49
Council Issues Decree to Churches
The council sends a letter, co-signed by Judas and Silas, to the churches in Antioch, Syria, and Cilicia, outlining their decision that Gentiles do not need to be circumcised but should abstain from certain practices.
This passage speaks of Epaphroditus risking his life for the work of Christ, highlighting the theme of selfless dedication and potential danger faced for the gospel's sake.
2 Corinthians 11:23-27Paul recounts his extensive suffering and risks taken for Christ, directly paralleling the description in Acts 15:26 as evidence of his apostolic authority and unwavering commitment.
1 Peter 4:12-13Peter encourages believers not to be surprised by fiery trials, reminding them that suffering for Christ is a participation in His sufferings and a reason for joy, connecting to the willingness to endure hardship.
Acts 14:19-20This passage immediately preceding the discussion in Acts 15 describes Paul being stoned and left for dead, demonstrating the very real, life-threatening dangers he faced for proclaiming Christ, which the Jerusalem council is referencing.
pooleActs 15:26: "Men that have hazarded their lives for the name of our Lord Jesus Christ."
Because that the false apostles at Antioch had vilified Paul and Barnabas, and opposed their doctrine and practice in admitting of the Gentiles by baptism into the church, the council here at Jerusalem take occasion to vindicate and to commend them, especially for their suffering so much for Christ, of which we read, Acts 13:50 14:19 : it being most reasonable to believe, that they had not done or said any t…
barnesActs 15:26: "Men that have hazarded their lives for the name of our Lord Jesus Christ."
Men that have hazarded their lives ... - See Acts 14 :This was a noble testimony to the character of Barnabas and Paul. It was a commendation of them to the confidence of the churches, and an implied expression that they wished their authority to be regarded in the establishment and organization of the church. For the name - In the cause of the Lord Jesus.
This verse isn't just a commendation; it's a powerful argument. By highlighting that Paul and Barnabas "hazarded their lives" for Christ, the Jerusalem council is implicitly saying their radical message about Gentile inclusion must be true, because these men wouldn't risk everything for a lie. It reveals that the cost of their convictions made their ministry undeniable to even those who questioned them.
The apostles and elders in Jerusalem are addressing a dispute that arose when some believers insisted that Gentile converts must be circumcised and follow the Mosaic Law. To resolve this, they send a letter and delegates, including Paul and Barnabas, back to the church in Antioch, commending Paul and Barnabas as men who have already risked their lives for Jesus' name. This highlights their dedication and authority, helping to validate the council's decision and combat the false teachings that had troubled the Gentile believers.
The apostles and elders in Jerusalem are addressing a dispute that arose when some believers insisted that Gentile converts must be circumcised and follow the Mosaic Law. To resolve this, they send a letter and delegates, including Paul and Barnabas, back to the church in Antioch, commending Paul and Barnabas as men who have already risked their lives for Jesus' name. This highlights their dedication and authority, helping to validate the council's decision and combat the false teachings that had troubled the Gentile believers.
"men who have risked their lives for the name of our Lord Jesus Christ." — This verse isn't just a commendation; it's a powerful argument. By highlighting that Paul and Barnabas "hazarded their lives" for Christ, the Jerusalem council is implicitly saying their radical mess…
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Last reviewed October 2026