So Paul still remained a good while. Then he took leave of the brethren and sailed for Syria, and Priscilla and Aquila were with him. He had his hair cut off at Cenchrea, for he had taken a vow. Acts 18:18

After a week of Christmas-themed entries, one more post on this verse, if you will bear with me.

We already considered the fact that cultural traditions are not bad or wrong—unless, of course they are bad or wrong. Another point that this verse beings up is making and keeping vows (promises). Paul had had taken a vow, and he was therefore bound to keep it. Two considerations on the topic of making and keeping vows (promises):

First, let us be careful about what we promise. Unless we are sure we can keep a promise, we must not make the promise. Because we cannot see the future, we are wise not to make promises that can be derailed by the unforeseen. It is wise (as James says in James 4:15), to condition our plans (and especially our promises) with the words, “If the Lord wills.” Or stated another way, “I will do this unless for some reason it becomes impossible.” Remember Solomon’s words in Ecclesiastes 5:3-5:

Be not rash with your mouth, nor let your heart be hasty to utter a word before God, for God is in heaven and you are on earth. Therefore let your words be few. For a dream comes with much business, and a fool's voice with many words. When you vow a vow to God, do not delay paying it, for he has no pleasure in fools. Pay what you vow. It is better that you should not vow than that you should vow and not pay.

The second consideration tomorrow…