Acts
The Jerusalem Council — Acts 15
Overview
As Gentiles come to faith in Christ, the early church gathers in Jerusalem to address whether Gentile believers must keep the law of Moses to be saved. After testimony from Peter, Paul, Barnabas, and James, the church affirms that salvation is by the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ and gives practical guidance for unity between Jewish and Gentile believers.
Details
Key KJV PassageActs 15:11 — “But we believe that through the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ we shall be saved, even as they.”
Main CharactersPeter, Paul, Barnabas, James, the apostles, elders, Jewish believers, and Gentile believers.
Lesson / ThemeSalvation is by grace through Christ, and the church must protect gospel truth while seeking unity and love.
Connection to ChristThe council centers on the sufficiency of Christ’s grace for salvation, not human works or religious custom.
Memory VerseActs 15:11.
Discussion QuestionsWhy was the Jerusalem Council necessary? What did Peter emphasize about grace? How can believers hold truth and unity together?
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