The Council at Jerusalem
Acts 15:1-21
Some men came down from Judea to Antioch and began teaching the people wrong information about salvation. They were preaching unless a man is circumcised, he cannot be saved. Paul and Barnabus debated with them. Then they went up to Jerusalem to see the apostles and elders about this situation. In Jerusalem, some of the Pharisees stood up and said, “The Gentiles must be circumcised and required to obey the law of Moses.”
After much discussion, Peter got up and addressed them. The gist of his speech is that God was the one who made the choice for the gospel to be taken to the Gentiles. God accepted them by giving them the Holy Spirit just as He gave the Holy Spirit to the Jews. God made no distinction between the Jews and Gentiles because he purified the hearts of the Gentiles by faith.
The whole assembly listened attentively to what was said about the signs, miracles, and wonders God has done among the Gentiles through them. When they had finished talking, James spoke up and quoted words from the minor prophet Amos.
James concluded that no difference should be made between the Jews and the Gentiles who had turned to God. Verse 20 listed James’ suggestion for the Gentiles.
Questions
1. What was the debate about?
2. What did the Pharisees suggest for the Gentiles who had been converted?
3. Name the people in order who spoke at the council.
4. According to Verse 20, what suggestion did James make for the newly converted Gentiles?
The Council’s Letter to Gentile Believers
Acts 15:22-35
The apostles, elders and the entire church decided to send some of their own men to Antioch with Paul and Barnabas. Along with the people, the church sent a letter with instructions that James had suggested. The church in Antioch received the men and the letter. They were encouraged by what Judas and Silas had said. All who had been to Antioch went back to Jerusalem except Paul and Barnabas who stayed there teaching and preaching the word of the Lord.
Paul’s second missionary journey begins (Acts 15:36-18:22)
Disagreement Between Paul and Barnabas
Acts 15:36-41
Paul wanted to go back and visit all the towns they had preached the word of the Lord. Barnabus wanted to take John Mark with them, but Paul objected because John Mark had deserted them in Pamphylia and not continued doing the work with them. Paul and Barnabas parted company, and Barnabus took John Mark with him. Now Paul and Silas are traveling together to strengthen the churches.
Questions
1. Read the letter and tell what was written therein. (Acts 15:23-29)
2. What was the debate about between Paul and Barnabas?
3. What was the result of the debate between Paul and Barnabas?
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