The Council at Jerusalem

Scripture: Acts 15:1-21

1 While Paul and Barnabas were at Antioch of Syria, some men from Judea arrived and began to teach the believers: “Unless you are circumcised as required by the law of Moses, you cannot be saved.” 2 Paul and Barnabas disagreed with them, arguing vehemently. Finally, the church decided to send Paul and Barnabas to Jerusalem, accompanied by some local believers, to talk to the apostles and elders about this question. (Acts 15:1-2 NLT)

The church faced its first major crisis: Christian Jews from Judea began teaching that Gentile believers had to keep the Mosaic law in order to be saved. The church did not split over this serious difference. Instead, they got together to seek God’s direction. They met to talk it out. Strong opinions were presented. The issues were pondered. Testimonies were given. A decision was reached that allowed them to maintain unity. Here are three elements of that process:

1. Avoiding The Trap of “Jesus Plus”. The core issue in Antioch wasn’t just a disagreement over a ritual; it was a misunderstanding of grace. These legalistic teachers were trying to enforce a formula: Jesus + Jewish Customs = Salvation. Peter stood up in the council and cut straight through this: “We believe that we are all saved the same way, by the undeserved grace of the Lord Jesus” (v. 11). It’s so easy to slide quietly into a “Jesus Plus” mindset! Jesus plus my perfect behavior. Jesus plus my political alignment. Jesus plus my great accomplishments. The moment we add a “plus” to the gospel, we minimize what happened on the cross. Grace is entirely undeserved, completely unearned, and totally sufficient.

2. Don’t Make It Hard for People to Find God. After listening to Peter, Paul, and Barnabas tell stories of what God was doing among the Gentiles, James (the leader of the Jerusalem church) delivered a clear verdict: “And so my judgment is that we should not make it difficult for the Gentiles who are turning to God.” (v.19) They realized their job wasn’t to build higher fences; it was to open wider doors.

3. Look for the Stories of God’s Grace in Action. They didn’t just argue theology—they listened to testimonies. When you’re facing a difficult decision or trying to find direction, look for evidence of God’s grace at work. What is transforming lives? Where do you see peace, love, and reconciliation growing?

Prayer:

Father, Thank You that our salvation rests entirely on your finished work, not our ongoing performance. Keep our hearts free from legalism. Show us if we’re making it difficult for anyone around us to see, meet, or experience You. For Jesus’ Sake, Amen.