But that we write unto them, that they abstain from pollutions of idols, and from fornication, and from things strangled, and from blood.
But that we write unto them, that they abstain from pollutions - from all that was polluting either in itself or in the estimation of their Jewish brethren. Four such things are now specified: First,
Of idols - that is, things polluted as having been offered in sacrifice to idols. The pagan were accustomed to give away or sell portions of such animals. From such food James would enjoin the Gentile converts to abstain, lest it should seem to the Jews that they were not entirely weaned from idolatry. (See Romans 14:15; 1 Corinthians 8:10-11.) Next, "and from fornication."
And from fornication. It may seem strange that a thing in itself sinful should be here mixed up with things indifferent, and only to be avoided as offensive to the Jews. So strange has it appeared to some critics, that they have tried to give another sense to the word and another turn to the suggestion regarding it. But the only satisfactory sense of the word here is its natural and proper sense. Let it be remembered that this was the characteristic sin of pagandom, and unblushingly practiced by all ranks and classes. Were the Gentile converts, therefore, to give way to this sin-of which they might well be thought in danger-it would proclaim them to the Jews, whose Scriptures branded it as a pagan abomination, to be still joined to their old idols. Thirdly, "and from things strangled."
And from things strangled - that is, from all flesh having the blood still in it. Lastly, blood itself:
And from blood -- in whatever form, as having been peremptorily forbidden to the Jews, and the eating of which, therefore, by the Gentile converts, could not but shock their prejudices (see the notes at Acts 15:28-29).