And teach customs, which are not lawful for us to receive, neither to observe, being Romans.

ACTS 16:21KJV
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Acts 16:21 (KJV)

What does Acts 16:21 mean?

Acts 16:21 records an accusation made against Paul and Silas, claiming they were teaching customs that were not lawful for Romans to accept or practice. The verse shows that the local people were upset because Paul and Silas were introducing beliefs and practices that clashed with Roman law and traditions.

In this scene, the complaint is brought by local citizens of Philippi, a Roman colony, to the city magistrates after Paul and Silas had cast out a spirit from a slave girl. The accusers emphasize their Roman identity and argue that what Paul and Silas are teaching is not just different, but actually illegal for Romans to follow, highlighting the tension between the new Christian message and established Roman customs.

The Greek behind Acts 16:21

  • The word "customs" (ἔθη, ethē) refers to established practices or traditions, especially those tied to religion or culture. Here, it underscores that the issue was not just about new ideas, but about practices seen as foreign and potentially disruptive.
  • The phrase "not lawful" (οὐκ ἔξεστιν, ouk exestin) means something is not permitted or allowed by law. The accusers are stressing that what Paul and Silas are doing is not just unusual, but actually forbidden for Romans.
  • The word "Romans" (Ῥωμαίοις, Rhōmaiois) is used to highlight the civic and legal identity of the people making the accusation. This shows that the conflict is not just religious, but also about loyalty to Roman law and identity.

Why Acts 16:21 matters

  • Acts 16:21 clarifies that the opposition to Paul and Silas was not only religious but also political and cultural, rooted in the desire to protect Roman identity and law.
  • The verse helps explain why the authorities reacted so strongly, as the accusation framed the Christian message as a threat to public order and Roman values.
  • This moment sets the stage for the legal troubles Paul and Silas face in Philippi, highlighting the challenges early Christians encountered when their message clashed with local laws and customs.