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Observe here, 1. With what fidelity and care Paul and Barnabas, and Judas and Silas, delivered this decretal epistle to the church at Antioch; that is, to the whole body of Christians, believing Jews and Gentiles, then and there assembled: When they had gathered the multitude together, they delivered the epistle; that is, they called the whole church together, and presented the epistle to them.
Observe, 2. How this decree was received; namely, with universal joy and satisfaction: When they had read, they rejoiced. Every one in this Christian council was a star devoted by his office to lead men to Christ; but now being gathered together, and condensed into a council, they become a most bright and glorious constellation, every way prepared, by the emanations of heavenly light, to guide the church in this obscure affair; and accordingly, their authority being so illustrious and commanding, and the decrees so pious and prudential, their determination was received with universal satisfaction: They delivered the epistle: which when they had read, they rejoiced.
Observe, 3. What was the subject matter of their joy, and the special occasion of their rejoicing: They rejoiced for the consolation; that is, for the great consolation which they had, in being freed from the burden of the legal ceremonies, though originally of divine institution, and appointed by God himself.
From whence we learn, That liberty from toilsome ceremonies, though originally of divine institution, much more a freedom from superstitious ceremonies has the church of Rome imposed upon her blind votaries! When in their worship they would be thought truly zealous, they are really ridiculous. They please themselves perhaps, but cannot please their Maker: all the acceptance they will find with God will be signified to them in that chiding question, "Who hath required these things at your hands?"