Acts of the Holy Spirit: A Study in ActsSample

What does it say?

Leaders from Jerusalem and Antioch met to discuss requirements for Gentile believers.

What does it mean?

The church in Antioch had many Gentile believers who came from a culture of paganism with no knowledge of Jewish law. The Judaizers were believers but taught that faith in Christ had to be accompanied by first converting to Judaism. The Jerusalem Council determined that salvation was the same for Gentiles as for Jews – by God’s grace through faith in Christ alone. The requirements sent back in the letter to Antioch didn’t relate to salvation but addressed bringing unity to this church body. The Gentiles needed to refrain from any practices related to idol worship, just as the Jews needed to let go of legalism. Each group should avoid offending the other.

How should I respond?

Disagreements among Christians too often result in disunity or a church split. Sadly, many believers speak up more often about their personal preferences and convictions than about errors in doctrine. Issues not directly addressed in Scripture, such as music styles and entertainment choices, should not be areas of contention, while issues of clear biblical revelation should never be compromised. Any topic can be discussed calmly and in a loving manner when the goal of the conversation is Christian unity rather than winning an argument.