A critical time had now arrived for the church. An important question had to be settled. The relation of believing Gentiles to the law and to circumcision was to be determined. Paul and Barnabas with others were delegated to go to Jerusalem with this question. As they passed through various countries, they related how Gentiles were being converted to the Lord Jesus.
At Jerusalem, the apostles and elders came together to consider this matter. Then Peter stood up and reminded them that through the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ alone they were saved. Law-keeping had nothing to do with their salvation. Then all the people listened as Barnabas and Paul related the wonders that God did among the Gentiles. Finally, James related how God wanted to take out of the Gentiles a people for His name. Now, all of the church were of one mind and sent letters to their Gentile brethren concerning their conclusion. It was necessary that brethren everywhere abstain from meats offered to idols, from blood, from things strangled, and from fornication. When this epistle was read to the multitude, they rejoiced. Two other prophets, Judas and Silas, also exhorted the brethren and confirmed them.
The closing paragraph of this chapter describes the beginning of Paul’s second missionary journey.
1. As they passed through Phenice and Samaria, what caused great joy unto all the brethren? __________ Acts 15:___
2. What did Peter believe happened through the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ? __________ Acts 15:___
3. For what purpose did God at the first visit the Gentiles? __________ Acts 15:___
4. We do well to abstain or keep ourselves from four things: pollutions of idols, __________, things strangled, and __________. Acts 15:___
5. Name two prophets who exhorted the brethren and confirmed them. __________ Acts 15:___