Matthew Henry Commentary Acts 16:1-5

"And he came also to Derbe and to Lystra: and behold, a certain disciple was there, named Timothy, the son of a Jewess that believed; but his father was a Greek. The same was well reported of by the brethren that were at Lystra and Iconium. Him would Paul have to go forth with him; and he took and circumcised him because of the Jews that were in those parts: for they all knew that his father was a Greek. And as they went on their way through the cities, they delivered them the decrees to keep which had been ordained of the apostles and elders that were at Jerusalem. So the churches were strengthened in the faith, and increased in number daily." — Acts 16:1-5 (ASV)

The church may well expect much service from youthful ministers who set out in the same spirit as Timothy. But when men are unwilling to submit in anything, or to accommodate others in anything, the first elements of Christian character seem to be lacking; and there is strong reason to believe that the doctrines and precepts of the gospel will not be successfully taught.

Since the decree's design was to set aside the ceremonial law and its carnal ordinances, believers were confirmed in the Christian faith, because it established a spiritual way of serving God, suited to the nature of both God and humanity. Thus the church increased in numbers daily.