21. They should not do any of these things, because there are still men in every city who teach the Law of Moses. The words of Moses have been read in the synagogue every Sabbath day for many years.”
22. The apostles, the elders, and the whole church wanted to send some men with Paul and Barnabas to Antioch. The group decided to choose some of their own men. They chose Judas (also called Barsabbas) and Silas, men who were respected by the believers.
23. The group sent the letter with these men. The letter said: From the apostles and elders, your brothers, To all the non-Jewish brothers in the city of Antioch and in the countries of Syria and Cilicia. Dear Brothers:
24. We have heard that some men have come to you from our group. What they said troubled and upset you. But we did not tell them to do this.
25. We have all agreed to choose some men and send them to you. They will be with our dear friends, Barnabas and Paul.
26. Barnabas and Paul have given their lives to serve our Lord Jesus Christ.
27. So we have sent Judas and Silas with them. They will tell you the same things.
28. We agree with the Holy Spirit that you should have no more burdens, except for these necessary things:
29. Don’t eat food that has been given to idols. Don’t eat meat from animals that have been strangled or any meat that still has the blood in it. Don’t be involved in sexual sin. If you stay away from these, you will do well. We say goodbye now.