How to reason when we don't know God's will
Dr. Roberto Miranda
(Audio: Spanish)
SUMMARY: Chapter 15 of the book of Acts is significant in the history of the Christian church. It involves a theological controversy about whether Gentile converts to Judaism needed to be circumcised, which caused serious difficulty for the rising Christian community. The Apostles and elders gathered to discuss the matter, and the issue of how to relate to diverse people in the church emerged. The passage highlights the importance of seeking wisdom, tolerance, love, mercy, grace, and commitment to the holiness of God in dealing with new converts with different customs and backgrounds. The passage also shows how God was preparing the Jewish community to become a holy leaven that touched all humanity, not just Israel.
In Acts 15, the early church faces a controversy over whether Gentile converts need to follow Jewish customs, such as circumcision and observing the Law of Moses, to be saved. Paul argues that salvation comes through faith in Christ's sacrifice on the cross, not through works of the law. The Apostles in Jerusalem ultimately decide that Gentile converts do not need to follow Jewish customs. The decision demonstrates the importance of authority in the church and the use of human reasoning, illuminated by the Holy Spirit, to make moral and ethical decisions. The controversy also serves as an example of how the church must grapple with difficult issues and adapt to changing circumstances.
The speaker discusses the decision-making process of the early church in regards to the issue of Gentiles and adherence to the Law of Moses. He emphasizes the importance of using the Bible, the illumination of the Holy Spirit, human reasoning, and the dialogue of the faith community in making decisions. He also encourages seeking advice and observing circumstances and using common sense. The speaker notes that there are many issues in the Bible and in spirituality where different people may have varying opinions and reasoning, and it is important to respect these differences.
The people of God made a decision that blesses us today and the church is still working on it. God wants to conquer on earth with us and wants us to use our common sense. We should thank God for everything he created and enjoy it with respect and reverence for him. We want to be a mature church that reflects the richness of the Kingdom of God and raises mature Christians. We bless each other and thank God for the privilege of being members of this family of faith.
In Acts 15, the early church faces a controversy over whether Gentile converts need to follow Jewish customs, such as circumcision and observing the Law of Moses, to be saved. Paul argues that salvation comes through faith in Christ's sacrifice on the cross, not through works of the law. The Apostles in Jerusalem ultimately decide that Gentile converts do not need to follow Jewish customs. The decision demonstrates the importance of authority in the church and the use of human reasoning, illuminated by the Holy Spirit, to make moral and ethical decisions. The controversy also serves as an example of how the church must grapple with difficult issues and adapt to changing circumstances.
The speaker discusses the decision-making process of the early church in regards to the issue of Gentiles and adherence to the Law of Moses. He emphasizes the importance of using the Bible, the illumination of the Holy Spirit, human reasoning, and the dialogue of the faith community in making decisions. He also encourages seeking advice and observing circumstances and using common sense. The speaker notes that there are many issues in the Bible and in spirituality where different people may have varying opinions and reasoning, and it is important to respect these differences.
The people of God made a decision that blesses us today and the church is still working on it. God wants to conquer on earth with us and wants us to use our common sense. We should thank God for everything he created and enjoy it with respect and reverence for him. We want to be a mature church that reflects the richness of the Kingdom of God and raises mature Christians. We bless each other and thank God for the privilege of being members of this family of faith.
In chapter 15 of the book of Acts, it is a significant event in the history of the church of Jesus Christ. Believe it or not, this is one of the most important chapters in the Bible, in the entire Bible, it is chapter 15 and I am going to tell you why in a moment.
But let's read even a little because it is too long a chapter. It says here in verse 1:
But let's read even a little because it is too long a chapter. It says here in verse 1:
