![[article cover study.wiki.png]] ![[sub.logo 1.png]][Substack Articles](https://practicalchristian.substack.com/?r=507pdm&utm_campaign=pub-share-checklist)** ![[coffee.png]][Buy me a coffee?](https://givesendgo.com/PracticalChristianity?utm_source=sharelink&utm_medium=copy_link&utm_campaign=PracticalChristianity) **Title**: The Jerusalem Council: Grace and Unity in the Gospel **Cross Reference**: #Acts, #Grace, #Christian_Unity --- ### Resolving Gospel Unity in Jerusalem **Scripture Reference**: [Acts 15:1–41](https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Acts+15.1-41&version=AMP) The Jerusalem Council in Acts 15 addresses a foundational question: What does salvation require, and how should the Church balance grace and truth in a culturally diverse body of believers? This pivotal moment in church history reminds us of the importance of unity, grace, and reliance on God’s Word when addressing theological and cultural differences. --- ### The Debate in Jerusalem **Scripture Reference**: [Acts 15:1–34](https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Acts+15.1-34&version=AMP) The chapter begins with a pressing controversy. Certain believers from Judea insist, "Unless you are circumcised according to the custom of Moses, you cannot be saved" ([Acts 15:1](https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Acts+15.1&version=AMP)). This assertion creates division, as it appears to undermine the message of salvation by grace through faith. #### **Legalism vs. Grace** At its heart, the debate is about the sufficiency of Christ’s work. Is salvation secured solely by faith in Christ, or must it also include adherence to Old Testament laws? This conflict reflects the tension between legalism and grace that believers often face even today. **Reflection Prompt**: Are there areas in your life where you add unnecessary requirements to God’s grace? #### **The Defense of Grace** Paul and Barnabas recount their missionary journey, highlighting how God saved many Gentiles apart from circumcision ([Acts 15:2–4, 12](https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Acts+15.2-4,12&version=AMP)). Peter adds his testimony, reminding the council of Cornelius’s conversion: "He made no distinction between us and them, cleansing their hearts by faith" ([Acts 15:9](https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Acts+15.9&version=AMP)). #### **Scripture Speaks** James, the leader of the Jerusalem church, grounds the decision in Scripture. Quoting Amos, he highlights God’s plan to include the Gentiles: "All the Gentiles who are called by My name" ([Acts 15:17](https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Acts+15.17&version=AMP)). This appeal to Scripture ensures the decision is rooted in God’s revealed will. --- ### The Resolution: Grace Prevails **Scripture Reference**: [Acts 15:19–34](https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Acts+15.19-34&version=AMP) James delivers a grace-filled resolution, declaring that Gentile believers are not required to undergo circumcision. Instead, they are encouraged to abstain from a few practices to foster unity with Jewish believers ([Acts 15:20](https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Acts+15.20&version=AMP)). #### **Unity in Diversity** This decision reflects a profound truth: Unity in the Church does not require uniformity. By upholding grace and addressing practical concerns, the council models how to navigate cultural differences without compromising the gospel. **Reflection Prompt**: How can you promote unity in your church while honoring the diversity of its members? --- ### The Disagreement in Antioch **Scripture Reference**: [Acts 15:35–41](https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Acts+15.35-41&version=AMP) Even as the Church resolves one conflict, another arises. Paul and Barnabas disagree sharply over whether John Mark should accompany them on their next missionary journey. Barnabas, ever the encourager, wishes to give John Mark another chance, but Paul feels his earlier abandonment disqualifies him ([Acts 15:38](https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Acts+15.38&version=AMP)). #### **Conflict Among Believers** This disagreement, though sharp, is not without purpose. It leads to two mission teams instead of one, multiplying the gospel’s reach. Later, Paul reconciles with John Mark, affirming his usefulness in ministry ([2 Timothy 4:11](https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=2+Timothy+4.11&version=AMP)). **Reflection Prompt**: How can you approach disagreements with fellow believers in a way that honors Christ and fosters reconciliation? --- ### Call to Action: Upholding Grace and Unity The Jerusalem Council reminds us that the gospel is a message of grace, unshackled from human works, yet it calls us to pursue unity through humility and love. Whether addressing theological disagreements or personal conflicts, we must seek God’s wisdom, rely on His Word, and extend grace to others. #### **Practical Steps**: 1. **Anchor in Scripture**: When faced with questions or conflicts, turn to God’s Word for guidance. 2. **Embrace Grace**: Resist the temptation to add to the gospel, remembering that Christ’s work is sufficient. 3. **Pursue Unity**: Work to understand and appreciate the perspectives of others, fostering peace and collaboration. **Reflection Prompt**: What steps can you take this week to demonstrate grace and promote unity in your community? --- ### **Related Concepts:** - [[Sola Gratia]] - [[Unity in Christ]] - [[Missionary Journeys]]