The Jerusalem Council

The Jerusalem Council

Acts 15:12-35

Church life is often more complicated than it looks. To obtain unity, orthodoxy and preserve the gospel within it is not an easy thing to do.

Is there a way forward that we can see outlined in these texts in order for us to overcome this issue?

Outline of the texts:

1. Biblical argument (vs. 12-18)

Peter, Paul and Barnabas confirm Gentile inclusion in the story of God's salvation by speaking of their experiences - vision, signs and wonders. Then James (the brother of Jesus) speaks and confirms too that those are in keeping with what God has already promised from long time ago - the restoration of David's fallen tent. (Amos 9:11, 12)

2. Unifying judgment (vs. 19-21)

On the surface, these texts seem somewhat divisive but James is rather suggesting an alternative - temporary measures for the sake of harmony. They were willing to compromise Christian liberty in order to attain unity.

See 1 Cor. 10:25-33 for a similar narrative where Paul speaks about the ways we can "compromise" without "raising any question on the ground of conscience".

The conscience of a brother matters more than one's rights (freedom). One's rights can be set aside for the sake of Christian unity.

3. Encouraging letter (vs. 22-35)

In this letter, we see the need to press in people's hearts and consciences the truth that they had to relay in the Jerusalem Council. The letter seems to impose more regulation and limitations but the disciples rejoice in it. It means that they are in fact saved by grace alone. It is the gospel that enables them to set aside their liberties for the sake of their brothers.