Today we are reading Acts 15. In this chapter we read about the First Jerusalem Council. ”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.” And after Paul and Barnabas had no small dissension and debate with them, Paul and Barnabas and some of the others were appointed to go up to Jerusalem to the apostles and the elders about this question. So, being sent on their way by the church, they passed through both Phoenicia and Samaria, describing in detail the conversion of the Gentiles, and brought great joy to all the brothers. When they came to Jerusalem, they were welcomed by the church and the apostles and the elders, and they declared all that God had done with them. But some believers who belonged to the party of the Pharisees rose up and said, “It is necessary to circumcise them and to order them to keep the law of Moses.” The apostles and the elders were gathered together to consider this matter.“ Acts 15:1-6 ESV I find it very impressive to see how this first Council, which included the Apostles, the Elders and other leaders, discussed their question. They spoke openly. They listened carefully. They acted respectfully. And, in their decision, they showed concern for Gentile believers. This is a great model for how to settle disagreements in the church. How can you imitate the healthy way they handled this situation? May God give you a voice of wisdom in your discussions. Pastor Tim
