Gospel Outreach International

In Acts 15, we explore the crucial Jerusalem Council that shaped early Christian doctrine. Have you ever wondered how the early church handled conflicts between different cultural and religious backgrounds? This study delves into how the first Christians addressed the tension between Jewish traditions and Gentile converts, ultimately pointing to salvation through grace rather than religious customs.

But some men came down from Judea and were teaching the brothers, “Unless you are circumcised according to the custom of Moses, you cannot be saved.” Acts 15:1

• False teachers were causing problems by teaching incorrect doctrines
• The church sent a delegation to Jerusalem including Paul and Barnabas
• Pharisees were identified as a source of conflict due to their strict religious rules
• Peter testified about God’s acceptance of the Gentiles
• James provided practical solutions with three specific rules
• The importance of listening to Christ as the head of the church
• Grace is emphasized as the basis for salvation for both Jews and Gentiles
• The spread of Judaism through synagogues in every city
• The challenge of balancing tradition with spiritual growth
• The need to avoid burdening new believers with excessive rules

But we believe that we will be saved through the grace of the Lord Jesus, just as they will. Acts 15:11

This bible study reminds us that at the heart of all church matters should be Jesus Christ himself. The focus ultimately returns to Christ’s grace as the foundation for salvation, rather than religious rules or traditions. The early church’s solution to this conflict demonstrates how Jesus’s message of grace can bridge cultural and religious divisions, making salvation accessible to all who believe.

Bible References

• Acts 15:1-21
• Acts 15:1
• Acts 15:11
• Hebrews 11
• Acts 15:16-18