²⁰ Instead, we should write a letter to them telling them these things: Stay away from food ·that has been offered to idols (which makes it unclean) [^Lpolluted by idols], ·any kind of sexual sin [or prohibited marriages; ^Cthe Greek word could mean any sexual sin, or marriages viewed as incestuous by OT law], eating animals that have been strangled [^Cleaving the blood inside, which the OT law prohibited; Gen. 9:4], and blood [^Cconsuming blood was forbidden in the OT law; Lev. 17:10–12]. ²¹ They should do these things, because for a long time in every city ·the law of Moses has been taught [^LMoses has been preached/proclaimed; ^Creferring to the Torah (the Law)]. And it is still read in the synagogue every Sabbath day.” [^CThese guidelines were to keep from offending pious Jews in the community and so promote unity in the Church.]

Letter to Gentile Believers

²² The apostles, the elders, and the whole church decided to send some of their men with Paul and Barnabas to Antioch. They chose Judas [^Lcalled] Barsabbas [1:23] and Silas [15:40; 1 Thess. 1:1], who were ·respected by [or leaders among] the ·believers [^Lbrothers (and sisters)].