Introduction: Acts 15 tells about a problem and solution in the early church – the question of whether Gentile Christians should be required to follow Jewish law. The apostles and elders at Jerusalem Council make the decision that faith in Jesus Christ is sufficient for salvation, pointing out God’s salvation, grace and mercy is for all people, Jew and gentile. This shows the wisdom the men who started the church possessed, being led by the Holy Spirit of God, they sought God for answers and did not lean to their own understanding, as the Bible tells us in Proverbs 3:5-6.
I. Acts 15:1-5: Dispute in Antioch
Certain believers insist that Gentile Christians need to be circumcised and adhere to the Law of Moses for salvation, causing dissension and debate. This brings to mind the verse, Galatians 5:6 which affirms that faith, expressed in love, matters more than circumcision. Romans 3:28 also supports this, stating that one is justified by faith apart from the works of the law.
II. Acts 15:6-11: Peter’s Speech
Peter declares that God has cleansed the Gentiles’ hearts through faith, negating the need for the law, which even Jews found burdensome in their lives. This echoes Peter’s vision in Acts 10:15, where God declares all things clean. Ephesians 2:8-9 also aligns with this, attributing salvation to God’s grace through faith, and not to works.
III. Acts 15:12-18: Barnabas and Paul’s Testimony and James’ Speech
Barnabas and Paul recount God’s miracles among the Gentiles, supporting God’s acceptance of them. James quotes Amos 9:11-12 to show God’s plan to include Gentiles. This reminds us of Genesis 12:3, where God promises that all peoples on earth will be blessed through Abraham.
IV. Acts 15:19-21: Decision of the Council
The church council decides against imposing the law on Gentile Christians, though they ask them to abstain from certain practices offensive to Jewish believers. This reflects what the Apostle Paul said in Romans 14:13-19, which encourages believers not to cause others to stumble with their freedom.
V. Acts 15:22-35: Letter to Gentile Believers
The apostles and elders send a letter to Gentile believers, affirming their acceptance by faith and giving instructions for peaceful existence in the church body. This brings to mind 1 Corinthians 8:9, stressing the importance of not allowing our liberty to cause others to stumble. We should be living in a way that uplifts others in their faith, not causing them to doubt in their Christian life.
VI. Acts 15:36-41: Disagreement and Separation of Paul and Barnabas
Paul and Barnabas disagree over Mark’s inclusion in their mission, leading to their separation. This disagreement sheds light on the human struggle in ministry, yet God’s work continues as both men went on to do their part for the Kingdom of God. This is reminiscent of Philippians 1:15-18, where Paul acknowledges that Christ is preached in all circumstances. We may disagree, but the one thing we should always agree on is, that Jesus is the one and only way to redemption.
Conclusion: Acts 15 is a reminder to we as Christians, that faith in Jesus Christ is all that is required for salvation, upholding the fact that God’s grace includes all. It inspires us to respect one another’s convictions for the sake of unity, while also acknowledging that disagreements may arise in ministry. But even in disagreement, God’s work is not hindered. It is a powerful testament to God’s plan to include all people in salvation, redemption and the Kingdom of Heaven.
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