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Acts 15:12-19 The whole assembly became silent as they listened to Barnabas and Paul telling about the miraculous signs and wonders God had done among the Gentiles through them. 13 When they finished, James spoke up: “Brothers, listen to me. 14 Simon has described to us how God at first showed his concern by taking from the Gentiles a people for himself. 15 The words of the prophets are in agreement with this, as it is written:
James Quotes Amos 9:11-12 Acts 15:18 “After this I will return and rebuild David's fallen tent. Its ruins I will rebuild, and I will restore it, 17 that the remnant of men may seek the Lord, and all the Gentiles who bear my name, says the Lord, who does these things.” 18 (These things) have been known for ages. Then James Decides Acts 15:19 It is my judgment, therefore, that we should not make it difficult for the Gentiles who are turning to God. PETER had testified to the Spirit leading him to Cornelius’ home. Then Paul and Barnabas confirmed God had revealed his power among the Gentiles. The church’s ruling council listened with silent, attentive ears. Who could reject the testimony of these three men, especially Peter and Paul? Jesus had exclusively anointed each of them to lead his church in a particular way. The Lord’s will was being accomplished with their faithful adherence to Jesus’ commands. And when debating the ways of the church, there is one more absolutely essential authority the church must consult. This is God’s Word - Scripture’s – authority. James speaks that authority. James is Jesus’ half-brother and author of the epistle James. He had been chosen to lead the church in Jerusalem. James’ quote from Amos 9:11-12 is God’s promise to restore Israel from his judgment to create Israel to be the center of the nations’ worship. David’s tent represents God’s covenant to send his Savior through David’s lineage. The tent is God’s covering over his people. This is as if God will have a great feast for the world. Once Israel is under his shelter again, he will draw in “Edom” who Israel’s cousins, descended from Esau, Jacob’s twin brother. Then God will welcome all the nations. God’s plan to save the world through Jesus is a plan that moves from Jerusalem to the nations. James sees God’s plan for the Gentiles in the prophet’s words. God’s Word is the authority to welcome the Gentiles into the church without circumcision. The debate should end. How often do we in our personal lives consult God before resolving a question on our heart? How often does the church? This must be our habit, our purpose. Remember, near the end of his life Paul wrote: All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness. (2 Timothy 3:16) Let’s trust it is for each part our lives. The next lesson focuses on three essential issues in the first century that are still a great problem today. Comments are closed.
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AuthorBob James Archives
January 2025
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