Acts 15:1 And certain men came down from Judea and taught the brethren, "Unless you are circumcised according to the custom of Moses, you cannot be saved."

Acts 15:1 And certain men came down from Judea and taught the brethren, "Unless you are circumcised according to the custom of Moses, you cannot be saved."

Who are these men coming down from Judea?Who are these men coming down from Judea?These were men who had been Jews (of the sects of the Pharisees, verse 5), but who were converted (superficially?) to Christianity.The fact that they were willing to refer their dispute to the apostles and elders (verse 2) shows they had professedly embraced the Christian religion.Yet in Galatians 2:4 they are styled “false brethren who had sneaked in to spy out our liberty.”


Who are these men coming down from Judea?Who are these men coming down from Judea?They came from Jerusalem to Antioch of Syria, and they claimed to have been sent from Jerusalem by the Apostles. Acts 15:24.Acts 15:24.They may have built their doctrines on statements like the one written in James 2:10James 2:10, which, if taken out of context might sound as if keeping the Law of Moses was necessary to salvation.They are coming here to teach. And what is it that they are teaching?


Unless you are circumcised according to the custom of Moses you cannot be saved.

Unto whom did the Lord command the circumcision first…?Unto whom did the Lord command the circumcision first…? Abraham! He was first. Genesis 17:10; Abraham! He was first. Genesis 17:10; How Old was Abraham when he was ordered by God to How Old was Abraham when he was ordered by God to circumcise himself? Genesis 17:23-27circumcise himself? Genesis 17:23-27Do these brethren believe in Baptism in order to be saved? Do these brethren believe in Baptism in order to be saved? Yes, but they also believe that circumcision was part of Yes, but they also believe that circumcision was part of Salvation. Salvation. See? People have different ideas concerning salvation and See? People have different ideas concerning salvation and they need to be taught properly! Gal 5:1-4; Col 2:8.they need to be taught properly! Gal 5:1-4; Col 2:8.


Unless you are circumcised according to the custom of Moses, you cannot be saved.

Salvation does not depend on the law of Moses but on the Salvation does not depend on the law of Moses but on the sacrifice that Jesus made on the cross.sacrifice that Jesus made on the cross. No one will be saved by following Moses’ law! Gal 3:1-3No one will be saved by following Moses’ law! Gal 3:1-3 The Law of Moses cannot justify nor save man anymore. The Law of Moses cannot justify nor save man anymore. By the way, when Jesus died on the cross the law of Moses was By the way, when Jesus died on the cross the law of Moses was nailed to the cross. Col 2:14; Ephesians 2:15-16.nailed to the cross. Col 2:14; Ephesians 2:15-16.Circumcision or uncircumcision does not mean any more to Circumcision or uncircumcision does not mean any more to the Lord than that one is willing to obey His commandments…the Lord than that one is willing to obey His commandments…Jesus cut the Law in two! Jesus cut the Law in two! Matthew 27:51; John 19:30. Matthew 27:51; John 19:30. That is That is Moses’ law is done, a new one is comingMoses’ law is done, a new one is coming


Moses led us to Christ. Gal 3:24.Moses was a servant in the house of the Lord. Heb 3:5Moses was a shadow. Heb 8:5; 10:1.Moses did not save anyone. Heb 10:1

Christ is the Master! John 8:58Jesus is Lord in the House. Heb 3:6.Jesus is the reality. Heb 9:24.Jesus is the Savior of all. Acts 4:12

Acts 15:2 Therefore, when Paul and Barnabas had no small dissension and dispute with them, they determined that Paul and Barnabas and certain others of them should go up to Jerusalem, to the apostles and elders, about this question.

From time to time tempers will flare when trying when trying to teach to teach some Bible topics, but we must understand that we can understand that we can not lose our composure and moderation.We are brothers in Christ and not enemies, we fight against Satan and his host of wickedness not against us.We must teach the truth regarding what is the view of people. That’s what Paul and Barnabas are doing.

‘Paul and Barnabas had no small dissention and disputed with them’


The decision to seek counsel from the Jerusalem church.

There was the decision of the Antioch church to seek counsel from the Jerusalem church. The Antioch church had no doubt about its position. Note that the Antioch church was not seeking for the Jerusalem church to enlighten them on the doctrine of salvation. The church sent Paul and Barnabas to Jerusalem for three reasons.

They determined that Paul and Barnabas and certain others of them should go up to Jerusalem


a. God told Paul to go: "I went up by revelation" (Galatians 2:2). God willed a great church council (one that would include the earliest apostles)—a council that would issue a great verdict proclaiming the truth to every generation.


b. A declaration by the apostles would carry great weight and help tremendously in silencing those who would add a ritual to the requirements for salvation.

c. A declaration by the Jerusalem church would provide a great weapon to use in the struggle against "ritual of Moses’ law." The Jerusalem church was the ritual center, the home base of those preaching the error. At least that's what they said:

Acts 15:3 So, being sent on their way by the church, they passed through Phoenicia and Samaria, describing the conversion of the Gentiles; and they caused great joy to all the brethren.

They will come to Jerusalem not before stopping to encourage the Christians in those two cities…That’s the worry from Paul, the well being of the new Christians, he was always worried about them. 2 Corinthians 11:23His desire is to tell the saints in those regions how God through his preaching has been saving the gentiles.

Acts 15:4 And when they had come to Jerusalem, they were received by the church and the apostles and the elders; and they reported all things that God had done with them.

They arrived in Jerusalem and are received by the church, the apostles and the elders.Notice please how good apostles and elders get along in Jerusalem. There is no problem at all. Christians need to learn to live together in harmony.Paul and Barnabas are passing a report to the other apostles and elders! This is “humbleness” Romans 12:3; Phil 2:3.

Acts 15:5 But some of the sect of the Pharisees who believed rose up, saying, "It is necessary to circumcise them, and to command them to keep the law of Moses."

Are these Pharisees Christians?Paul was not the only Pharisee who obeyed Christ, but apparently some of the Pharisees were not really converted to Christ. For this it was more important to defend their ideas and parties instead of Christ.They are teaching that is a needful thing to obey the Law of Moses.Circumcision was a “part” of Moses’ law together with many other sacrifices but not a thing that we must do to be saved!

Acts 15:6 Now the apostles and elders came together to consider this matter.

Are the elders important in the church?Yes, not only important but also necessary…The apostles with the elders are coming together to discuss the accusation from the Pharisee Christians against the gentiles in Antioch.Galatians 2:2…And I went up by revelation, Galatians 2:2…And I went up by revelation, and communicated unto them that gospel and communicated unto them that gospel which I preach among the Gentiles, but which I preach among the Gentiles, but privately to them which were of reputation, privately to them which were of reputation, lest by any means I should run, or had run, lest by any means I should run, or had run, in vain.in vain.Galatians 2:1-10 to know more about this Galatians 2:1-10 to know more about this visitvisit

Acts 15:7 And when there had been much dispute, Peter rose up and said to them: "Men and brethren, you know that a good while ago God chose among us, that by my mouth the Gentiles should hear the word of the gospel and believe.

The point is hard, there was “much” dispute. They need, like many of us today, to cool down and be brothers in Christ, be Christians whenever something like this arises among us.Peter rose up, having had much Peter rose up, having had much experience about this and he will experience about this and he will speak.speak.Men and brethren, you know that a good while ago God chose among us, that by my mouth the Gentiles should hear the word of the gospel and believe.Peter said: Remember Cornelius?Peter said: Remember Cornelius?

Acts 15:7 And when there had been much dispute, Peter rose up and said to them: "Men and brethren, you know that a good while ago God chose among us, that by my mouth the Gentiles should hear the word of the gospel and believe.

God chose the gentiles to be partakers of the gospel and He did it by the mouth of Peter. The reference is to Acts 10.God makes no “partiality” of people. We God makes no “partiality” of people. We do.do.The gospel is for all and these Pharisees The gospel is for all and these Pharisees had not understood this yet. Romans 1:16; had not understood this yet. Romans 1:16; 1 Corinthians 1:18; 1 Corinthians 15:2.1 Corinthians 1:18; 1 Corinthians 15:2.If we obey God faithfully following all he If we obey God faithfully following all he has prescribe in His word, we will be has prescribe in His word, we will be saved.saved.We do not need any external sacrifices We do not need any external sacrifices from the law in order to be saved.from the law in order to be saved.

Acts 15:8 "So God, who knows the heart, acknowledged them by giving them the Holy Spirit, just as He did to us,

This is the evidence when a person is accepted by the Lord. He pour out His Holy Spirit.Acts 2:38; Acts 10:44;Romans 8:15; Acts 2:38; Acts 10:44;Romans 8:15; Galatians 4:6.Galatians 4:6.Every child of God has the seal of God in Every child of God has the seal of God in Him, this seal is the guarantee that we are Him, this seal is the guarantee that we are this children regardless what others might this children regardless what others might said. 2 Tim 2:19.said. 2 Tim 2:19.God acknowledged the gentiles by giving God acknowledged the gentiles by giving unto them the same promise that He gave unto them the same promise that He gave the Jews. Unbelievable? For this brothers the Jews. Unbelievable? For this brothers yes, for the apostles no more!yes, for the apostles no more!

Acts 15:9 "and made no distinction between us and them, purifying their hearts by faith.

The same God of The Jewish people is the same God of us the gentiles. You and I must know that we are gentiles, so God in His infinite mercy received us unto His Son.But even that’s the case now, the Jewish people cannot comprehend how that change happened, or who make those changes…God purified our hearts, how?1 Peter 2:22, 23; John 1:13; John 3:5; 1 John 3:9.Is the word of God the agent of our purification.Is the word of God the agent of our purification.When men obey in honesty and with a pure When men obey in honesty and with a pure heart, God help you with the changes!heart, God help you with the changes!

Acts 15:10 "Now therefore, why do you test God by putting a yoke on the neck of the disciples which neither our fathers nor we were able to bear?

To force Christians then and now to follow To force Christians then and now to follow opinions and traditions is opinions and traditions is TO TEST GOD!TO TEST GOD!Peter is calling circumcision a ‘YOKE”Peter is calling circumcision a ‘YOKE”They were not ABLE TO CARRY!They were not ABLE TO CARRY!The Adventist are taking laws and The Adventist are taking laws and commandments from Moses they even the commandments from Moses they even the same Jews were not able to carry.same Jews were not able to carry.The law of Moses was very hard to keep and The law of Moses was very hard to keep and fulfill.fulfill.Matthew 23:4; Galatians 5:1.Matthew 23:4; Galatians 5:1.Paul says, ‘you want to justify yourself by Paul says, ‘you want to justify yourself by following Moses law’, you have fallen from following Moses law’, you have fallen from ‘GRACE” Galatians 3:1-4.‘GRACE” Galatians 3:1-4.

Acts 15:10 "Now therefore, why do you test God by putting a yoke on the neck of the disciples which neither our fathers nor we were able to bear?

What is the idea of the yoke?What is the idea of the yoke?We all know that a yoke is a “burden, something hard We all know that a yoke is a “burden, something hard to carry, something that not even the same Jews were to carry, something that not even the same Jews were willing to take any more…willing to take any more…Gal 3:10…For as many as are of the works of the law Gal 3:10…For as many as are of the works of the law are under the curse; for it is written, "Cursed is are under the curse; for it is written, "Cursed is everyone who does not continue in all things which everyone who does not continue in all things which are written in the book of the law, to do them.“are written in the book of the law, to do them.“We are now justify not by the works of the Law by but We are now justify not by the works of the Law by but by faith in Christ Jesus… Galatians 2:16. This is by faith in Christ Jesus… Galatians 2:16. This is Peters point in Acts 15:10Peters point in Acts 15:10

Acts 15:11 "But we believe that through the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ we shall be saved in the same manner as they."

What saved is the GRACE OF GOD. What saved is the GRACE OF GOD. Romans 3:24; 5:20-21; Gal 1:6; Romans 3:24; 5:20-21; Gal 1:6; But this grace cannot work alone, we must But this grace cannot work alone, we must be willing to do our part. John 3:16.be willing to do our part. John 3:16.God has done His, now its our turn to do God has done His, now its our turn to do ours.ours.How? How? By being obedient to what is prescribed in By being obedient to what is prescribed in the word of God. Acts 2:38; 8:37-38; 22:16. the word of God. Acts 2:38; 8:37-38; 22:16.

Acts 15:11 "But we believe that through the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ we shall be saved in the same manner as they."

The gentiles were saved and we are saved because The gentiles were saved and we are saved because God:God:"knew their hearts," that they were believing within their hearts. God and God alone knows the heart.Þ God bore witness to the belief of their hearts.Þ God bore witness by giving the Holy Spirit to them.Þ God gave the Holy Spirit.Þ God gave the Holy Spirit just as He did to the Jews.God cleansed their hearts--by faith and the obedience of repentance and Baptism. 1 Peter 1:22-23.

Acts 15:12… Then all the multitude kept silent and listened to Barnabas and Paul declaring how many miracles and wonders God had worked through them among the Gentiles.

From time to time when we don’t understand From time to time when we don’t understand something it will be very noble and gentle to keep it something it will be very noble and gentle to keep it

quiet… quiet… The Multitude kept silent and listen to Paul and The Multitude kept silent and listen to Paul and BarnabasBarnabas

The work belongs to God…We are only servants for The work belongs to God…We are only servants for the Lord… the Lord… Remember that pleaseRemember that please..

Luke 17:10Luke 17:10"So likewise you, when you have done all those things "So likewise you, when you have done all those things which you are commanded, say, 'We are unprofitable which you are commanded, say, 'We are unprofitable servants. We have done what was our duty to do.'"servants. We have done what was our duty to do.'"

Acts 15:12… Then all the multitude kept silent and listened to Barnabas and Paul declaring how many miracles and wonders God had worked through them among the Gentiles.

2 Cor 4:5… For we do not preach 2 Cor 4:5… For we do not preach ourselves, but Christ Jesus the Lord, and ourselves, but Christ Jesus the Lord, and ourselves your bondservants for Jesus' ourselves your bondservants for Jesus' sake.sake.1 Co 3:5…Who then is Paul, and who is 1 Co 3:5…Who then is Paul, and who is Apollos, but ministers through whom you Apollos, but ministers through whom you believed, as the Lord gave to each one?believed, as the Lord gave to each one?1Co 3:9 For we are God's fellow workers; 1Co 3:9 For we are God's fellow workers; you are God's field, you are God's building.you are God's field, you are God's building.

Acts 15:13 And after they had become silent, James answered, saying, "Men and brethren, listen to me:

This James in here is not the son of This James in here is not the son of Zebedee, James was killed by Herod in Zebedee, James was killed by Herod in

chapter 12. This James in here is no other chapter 12. This James in here is no other but the brother of Lord Jesus. but the brother of Lord Jesus.

1 Cor 15:7; Galatians 1:13; Matthew 13:55.1 Cor 15:7; Galatians 1:13; Matthew 13:55.

There is no reason to believe that this There is no reason to believe that this James is James the less or the Son of James is James the less or the Son of Alpheus.Alpheus.

Acts 15:13 And after they had become silent, James answered, saying, "Men and brethren, listen to me:

Even though he was “an unbeliever” at Even though he was “an unbeliever” at the begging of Jesus’ ministry now he is the begging of Jesus’ ministry now he is “a pillar in the church of Jerusalem”.“a pillar in the church of Jerusalem”.John 7:5 For even His brothers did not John 7:5 For even His brothers did not believe in Him.believe in Him.James would intervene and he will explain James would intervene and he will explain something very wise in order to comfort something very wise in order to comfort the brethren in Antioch. There they have the brethren in Antioch. There they have been disturbed by these Judaizers…been disturbed by these Judaizers…

Acts 15:14 "Simon has declared how God at the first visited the Gentiles to take out of them a people for His name.

James is now James is now defending the gentiles defending the gentiles brother and he will help brother and he will help this council but giving this council but giving his Biblical and a very his Biblical and a very logical conclusion…logical conclusion…What is the Biblical rule What is the Biblical rule that we follow in order that we follow in order to create or have a to create or have a Biblical practice?Biblical practice?James will use this James will use this principle right now… principle right now…

vv. 13-21

v. 12

vv. 7-11

Acts 15Circumcision

Command/Direct

Statement

ApprovedExample

NecessaryInference

How To Determine What IsHow To Determine What IsAuthorizedAuthorized

Acts 15:15 "And with this the words of the prophets agree, just as it is written:

James recognized that this is what the prophets James recognized that this is what the prophets spoke about and now he says this is the fulfillment spoke about and now he says this is the fulfillment of all that they wrote.of all that they wrote.Isaiah 2:2-4; Isaiah 49:6; Micah 4:1-4.Isaiah 2:2-4; Isaiah 49:6; Micah 4:1-4.James says that Bible prophecy cannot fail. James says that Bible prophecy cannot fail. Everything that God spoke “must” have a Everything that God spoke “must” have a fulfillment.fulfillment.All the prophets understood that David’s house will All the prophets understood that David’s house will fall and that God will raise a new people who will fall and that God will raise a new people who will worship him. This new people came when the Jews worship him. This new people came when the Jews rejected Jesus as per John in 1:11-12.rejected Jesus as per John in 1:11-12.

Acts 15:16 'After this I will return And will rebuild the tabernacle of David, which has fallen down; I will rebuild its ruins, And I will set it up;

James is taking this prophecy from Amos chapter 9:11-James is taking this prophecy from Amos chapter 9:11-12.12.People who think that Jesus will come and that he will People who think that Jesus will come and that he will establish the throne of David in Jerusalem again are establish the throne of David in Jerusalem again are twisting many Bible passages.twisting many Bible passages.Remember now we the Christians are the “real” Remember now we the Christians are the “real” tabernacle of God and we are commanded to offer real tabernacle of God and we are commanded to offer real sacrifices to God. (Romans 12:1-2; 1 Peter 2:9)sacrifices to God. (Romans 12:1-2; 1 Peter 2:9)God did return and He set up the throne of David when God did return and He set up the throne of David when Jesus sat at the right hand of God after His Jesus sat at the right hand of God after His resurrection. Acts 2:22-26…resurrection. Acts 2:22-26…

Acts 15:17 So that the rest of mankind may seek the LORD, Even all the Gentiles who are called by My name, Says the LORD who does all these things.'

Did God know that the Jews will reject His Son? Did God know that the Jews will reject His Son? Yes, He did but at the same time He gave them the Yes, He did but at the same time He gave them the opportunity to make a choice, accept Him or Reject Him.opportunity to make a choice, accept Him or Reject Him.The Gospel is for mankind, no one should stay out, all The Gospel is for mankind, no one should stay out, all can come and serve the Lord, after all we were created can come and serve the Lord, after all we were created for that reason.for that reason.For Peter in chapter 10 of Acts is was very hard to For Peter in chapter 10 of Acts is was very hard to believe that God now was opening the door for all the believe that God now was opening the door for all the gentiles.gentiles.This is the reason why it took him long to make a This is the reason why it took him long to make a decision in order to enter the family of Cornelius.decision in order to enter the family of Cornelius.

Acts 15:18 "Known to God from eternity are all His works.

God knows in His infinite Power the heart of men.God knows in His infinite Power the heart of men.If men want to be saved they must humble If men want to be saved they must humble themselves to the offering from God. There is an themselves to the offering from God. There is an invitation open for every one and we must make invitation open for every one and we must make the choice if we want to receive Him or not.the choice if we want to receive Him or not.The same gospel that was preached for the Jews is The same gospel that was preached for the Jews is the same gospel that God is offering for the the same gospel that God is offering for the gentiles. Salvation is now a reality for everyone gentiles. Salvation is now a reality for everyone who believes. Romans 1:16-17; 1 Cor 1:18.who believes. Romans 1:16-17; 1 Cor 1:18.So we the Christians can openly say: So we the Christians can openly say:

THE GOSPEL IS FOR ALL!THE GOSPEL IS FOR ALL!

Acts 15:19 "Therefore I judge that we should not trouble those from among the Gentiles who are turning to God,

Let’s all notice something in here: The judgment Let’s all notice something in here: The judgment from James is not left for anyone to vote on it. from James is not left for anyone to vote on it. James is not asking anyone to vote on the James is not asking anyone to vote on the particular, the evidence that he just present is clear particular, the evidence that he just present is clear and everyone together must abide to this and everyone together must abide to this conclusion. James says this is not my decision but conclusion. James says this is not my decision but the decision of the Holy Spirit.the decision of the Holy Spirit.Verse 28…Verse 28…Ac 15:28 For it seemed good to the Holy Spirit, and Ac 15:28 For it seemed good to the Holy Spirit, and to us, to lay upon you no greater burden than these to us, to lay upon you no greater burden than these necessary things:necessary things:

Acts 15:20 "but that we write to them to abstain from things polluted by idols, from sexual immorality, from things strangled, and from blood.

The prohibition:The prohibition:Thing polluted to idols…Such as?Thing polluted to idols…Such as?Meat or any other food offer to idols, 1 Cor 8:1.Meat or any other food offer to idols, 1 Cor 8:1.The word rendered pollutions means any kind of The word rendered pollutions means any kind of defilement. But here it is evidently used to denote defilement. But here it is evidently used to denote the flesh of those animals that were offered in the flesh of those animals that were offered in sacrifice to idols. See Ac 15:29. That flesh, after sacrifice to idols. See Ac 15:29. That flesh, after being offered in sacrifice, was often exposed for being offered in sacrifice, was often exposed for sale in the markets, or was served up at feasts, 1Co sale in the markets, or was served up at feasts, 1Co 10:25-29. 10:25-29.


The prohibition:The prohibition:Sexual Immorality… Any sexual activity that Sexual Immorality… Any sexual activity that violates the order from God to keep marriage violates the order from God to keep marriage honorable. 1 Cor 6:18; Gal 5:19; 1 Thes 4:3; Heb honorable. 1 Cor 6:18; Gal 5:19; 1 Thes 4:3; Heb 13:4. 13:4. The word used here--porneia-- is applicable to The word used here--porneia-- is applicable to all illicit intercourse; and may refer to adultery, all illicit intercourse; and may refer to adultery, incest, and licentiousness in any form. incest, and licentiousness in any form.


The prohibition:The prohibition:Things strangle…Things strangle…That is, from animals or birds that were killed without That is, from animals or birds that were killed without shedding their brood. The reason why these were shedding their brood. The reason why these were considered by the Jews unlawful to be eaten was, that considered by the Jews unlawful to be eaten was, that thus they would be under a necessity of eating blood, thus they would be under a necessity of eating blood, which was positively forbidden by the law. Hence it which was positively forbidden by the law. Hence it was commanded in the law, that when any beast or was commanded in the law, that when any beast or fowl was taken in a snare, the blood should be poured fowl was taken in a snare, the blood should be poured out before it was lawful to be eaten, Le 17:13. out before it was lawful to be eaten, Le 17:13.


The prohibition:The prohibition:From Blood? Is this commandment binding From Blood? Is this commandment binding today? Lev 17:10-14…today? Lev 17:10-14… The eating of blood was strictly forbidden to the The eating of blood was strictly forbidden to the Jews. The reason of this was that it contained the Jews. The reason of this was that it contained the life, Le 17:11,14.life, Le 17:11,14.The use of blood was common among the Gentiles. The use of blood was common among the Gentiles. They drank it often at their sacrifices, and in making They drank it often at their sacrifices, and in making covenants or compacts. To separate the Jews from covenants or compacts. To separate the Jews from them in this respect was one design of the prohibition.them in this respect was one design of the prohibition.


The prohibition:The prohibition:Is Blood transfusion a sin then?Is Blood transfusion a sin then? Blood is lifeBlood is life

Are the Jehovah witnesses right when they prohibit blood transfusions to his followers?James is very specific when he mentions eating blood. In blood transfusion we are not eating blood. Gen 9:4…


The prohibition:The prohibition:Is Blood transfusion a sin then?Is Blood transfusion a sin then? Blood is lifeBlood is lifeThe only New Testament passages that really deal with this subject are Acts 15:20,29. The whole point in context is that these are things which were forbidden by the law and which are still forbidden by the gospel, hence Gentile converts should be taught to observe them. The rest of the New Testament says virtually nothing about this point (cf. Acts 21:25), yet James is clearly saying that this practice is forbidden in the New Testament. To understand the point, we must study the Old Testament law to which James refers.


The prohibition:The prohibition:Is Blood transfusion a sin then?Is Blood transfusion a sin then? Blood is lifeBlood is lifeSince the New Testament law here is clearly the same as the Old Testament, we can accept the Old Testament definition of the law.The Old Testament law required people not to eat flesh with the blood in it; rather, they were required to pour the blood out. See Gen. 9:4; Lev. 3:17; 19:26; 17:10-15; Deut. 12:16,23-28; 15:23; 1 Sam. 14:31ff. Further, they were not to directly eat blood of any animal - Lev. 7:26,27; 17:10ff; Deut. 12:23.


The prohibition:The prohibition:Is Blood transfusion a sin then?Is Blood transfusion a sin then?The reason for this is that the life is in the blood, and the blood is offered as the atoning sacrifice - Lev. 17:10-14; Deut. 12:23-28. The wages of sin is death, and death is described as the shedding of blood. Since blood then is the requirement of sin, Jesus today is still our sacrifice having shed His blood for us.


The prohibition:The prohibition:Is Blood transfusion a sin then?Is Blood transfusion a sin then? Blood is lifeBlood is lifeNote further that, contrary to Jehovah's Witness' doctrine, nothing here prevents taking blood transfusions. What is condemned is eating blood as a food, not taking it intravenously as a medicine to save lives in time of emergency. The Scriptures and all people recognize the difference between eating or drinking something as a food for nourishment or pleasure, as compared to taking the same thing for medical treatment (see 1 Tim. 5:23).

Acts 15:21 "For Moses has had throughout many generations those who preach him in every city, being read in the synagogues every Sabbath."

For Moses has had…For Moses has had…What James is saying is that Moses does not need any What James is saying is that Moses does not need any help from the Pharisees…He is always read in the help from the Pharisees…He is always read in the Synagogues so don’t bother the Christians anymore!Synagogues so don’t bother the Christians anymore!That’s exactly what happen today. What many want That’s exactly what happen today. What many want again is to take Moses’ law and avoid Christ. Let’s again is to take Moses’ law and avoid Christ. Let’s make something clear this morning: WE CANNOT make something clear this morning: WE CANNOT KEEP TWO LAWS AT THE SAME TIME!KEEP TWO LAWS AT THE SAME TIME!It is spiritual adultery to follow another law besides the It is spiritual adultery to follow another law besides the law that Jesus already bought to us…law that Jesus already bought to us…

Acts 15:22… Then it pleased the apostles and elders, with the whole church, to send chosen men of their own company to Antioch with Paul and Barnabas, namely, Judas who was also named Barsabas, and Silas, leading men among the brethren.

Then it pleased the apostles and elders, with the whole churchThe proposal from James was accepted by:The proposal from James was accepted by:1)1)ApostlesApostles They are the authority that Jesus left. They are the authority that Jesus left.2)2)The EldersThe Elders They are the government that Jesus left. They are the government that Jesus left.3)3)The churchThe church He die and shed His blood for this beautiful He die and shed His blood for this beautiful body.body.This is the way that we must make decisions in the church This is the way that we must make decisions in the church in a unanimous decision…It is so nice to see that Apostles, in a unanimous decision…It is so nice to see that Apostles, Elders and church were working in unity!Elders and church were working in unity!

Acts 15:22… Then it pleased the apostles and elders, with the whole church, to send chosen men of their own company to Antioch with Paul and Barnabas, namely, Judas who was also named Barsabas, and Silas, leading men among the brethren.

The action from the church is seen immediately by sending men from Jerusalem together with Paul and Barnabas.Paul—Missionary preacher from Antioch.Paul—Missionary preacher from Antioch.Barnabas— Companion of Paul in the first trip.Barnabas— Companion of Paul in the first trip.Judas— (Barsabas) A Christian (Prophet) from Jerusalem..Judas— (Barsabas) A Christian (Prophet) from Jerusalem..Silas—Future companion of Paul and also (prophet). Roman Silas—Future companion of Paul and also (prophet). Roman citizen and also a Jew. Acts 16:37citizen and also a Jew. Acts 16:37These men are going to Antioch to encourage the brothers These men are going to Antioch to encourage the brothers and also to fix the problem of circumcision…and also to fix the problem of circumcision…

Acts 15:23 They wrote this letter by them: The apostles, the elders, and the brethren, To the brethren who are of the Gentiles in Antioch, Syria, and Cilicia: Greetings.

They wrote a letter…Follow please the order of authority…Follow please the order of authority…1)1)ApostlesApostles2)2)EldersElders3)3)Church (Brethren)Church (Brethren)Again let’s mention that Jerusalem is not the mother Again let’s mention that Jerusalem is not the mother churchchurchJerusalem is just helping Antioch in the same way that Jerusalem is just helping Antioch in the same way that we can help any church around the area that is we can help any church around the area that is struggling with any hard topic… Circumcision was a struggling with any hard topic… Circumcision was a hard topic and they needed the help of the Apostles.hard topic and they needed the help of the Apostles.

Acts 15:23 They wrote this letter by them: The apostles, the elders, and the brethren, To the brethren who are of the Gentiles in Antioch, Syria, and Cilicia: Greetings.

To whom is the letter addressed?This “Pharisee brethren are causing trouble not only in Antioch This “Pharisee brethren are causing trouble not only in Antioch but also:but also:1)1)SyriaSyria2)2)CiliciaCiliciaSomeone has said in a well manner: Someone has said in a well manner: ““Trouble makers would go as far as they can in order to cause Trouble makers would go as far as they can in order to cause trouble or to divide the church of the Lord.”trouble or to divide the church of the Lord.”The letter will ease the confusion and problem that many The letter will ease the confusion and problem that many members were having in the city of Antioch, this letter signed by members were having in the city of Antioch, this letter signed by the apostles will make them understand that God will is their the apostles will make them understand that God will is their sanctification.sanctification.

Ac 15:24 Since we have heard that some who went out from us have troubled you with words, unsettling your souls, saying, "You must be circumcised and keep the law" --to whom we gave no such commandment--

Remember that the men who went from the disciples were “Christian Pharisees”.They were troubling the Christians in Antioch.They were troubling the Christians in Antioch.James wants to make sure that all the members in James wants to make sure that all the members in Antioch understand that Jerusalem never ever said Antioch understand that Jerusalem never ever said anything…anything…Wrong doctrines “unsettle” the souls of the members. Wrong doctrines “unsettle” the souls of the members. Wrong doctrine removes the peace from the church and Wrong doctrine removes the peace from the church and brings just chaos and trouble.brings just chaos and trouble.This error is serious and James wants to fix it. Gal 1:6-9; This error is serious and James wants to fix it. Gal 1:6-9; Gal 5:4 Gal 5:4

Acts 15:25 it seemed good to us, being assembled with one accord, to send chosen men to you with our beloved Barnabas and Paul,

To us, that is Him and the rest of the apostles, Elders and the church collectively.

UNITY IS IMPORTANT IN ORDER TO SOLVE PROBLEMS IN THE CHURCH

1 Corinthians 1:10; Romans 12:16; 2 Corinthians 13:11; Philippians 2:2.They are exalting the two men whom they are sending. Paul and Barnabas were men of great respect in the church and here we can see the way that the church esteems these two men.Do we do the same with our good brothers among us?Do we do the same with our good brothers among us?

Acts 15:26 men who have risked their lives for the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.

Paul and Barnabas gain respect among the members of many churches for the fact that these two men were willing to suffer for the cause of Christ. They did not run away from any danger, they were willing to even “die” for the gospel of Jesus.

They risk their life for who?They risk their life for who?For Jesus? Was it really for Jesus? Jesus is in heaven.For Jesus? Was it really for Jesus? Jesus is in heaven.In here we can see then that suffering for Christ is to In here we can see then that suffering for Christ is to suffer for the church and vice versa.suffer for the church and vice versa.Christ and the church are so attached that whoever tries Christ and the church are so attached that whoever tries to detach the head from the body will be facing Jesus in to detach the head from the body will be facing Jesus in the last day. the last day. Acts 13:50; 14:19; 2 Cor 11:23, 26.Acts 13:50; 14:19; 2 Cor 11:23, 26.

Acts 15:27 We have therefore sent Judas and Silas, who will also report the same things by word of mouth.

With Paul and Barnabas, the church from Jerusalem is sending to Antioch another two men:Acts 15:22.Acts 15:22.Judas and Silas. They will help Paul and Barnabas to Judas and Silas. They will help Paul and Barnabas to make sure that whatever they say to the church is what make sure that whatever they say to the church is what the church in Jerusalem is approving.the church in Jerusalem is approving.Again brothers we can see how untied these men were. Again brothers we can see how untied these men were. They are ready to speak the same thing and to lift up the They are ready to speak the same thing and to lift up the church that was suffering the teachings of false church that was suffering the teachings of false Christians.Christians.Maybe Silas and Judas were not involved with the work Maybe Silas and Judas were not involved with the work among the gentiles, now they will rejoice with them.among the gentiles, now they will rejoice with them.

Acts 15:28 For it seemed good to the Holy Spirit, and to us, to lay upon you no greater burden than these necessary things:

With every decision that we make, we have to make sure that is according to the will of God.What James was saying at the begging of his speech was approved by the Holy Spirit. According to verse 28.The teaching of the false “brethren” is now expose by James. The teaching of the false “brethren” is now expose by James. Gal 2:4.Gal 2:4.This teaching was very necessary for the for the salvation of This teaching was very necessary for the for the salvation of the gentiles and also for the unity of the church.the gentiles and also for the unity of the church.Note that every doctrinal point must be taken seriously as the Note that every doctrinal point must be taken seriously as the church in Jerusalem did. church in Jerusalem did. To let any doctrinal error to go unstopped will cause many To let any doctrinal error to go unstopped will cause many problems among the saints. No greater burden will these problems among the saints. No greater burden will these brethren suffer. Circumcision does not count any more!brethren suffer. Circumcision does not count any more!

Acts 15:29 that you abstain from things offered to idols, from blood, from things strangled, and from sexual immorality. If you keep yourselves from these, you will do well. Farewell.

James is repeating here what he mentioned already in verse 20.

If you keep yourselves from these, you will do well. Farewell.

Obedience is always included in every Bible commandment. God is expecting from you and I to obey.God has declared that his commandments are not burden God has declared that his commandments are not burden some and we do well to practice what He is commanding.some and we do well to practice what He is commanding.He is also expecting “obedience from us”. Every He is also expecting “obedience from us”. Every commandment from God must be obeyed. He wants us to commandment from God must be obeyed. He wants us to listen to His word and to practice what He says everyday in listen to His word and to practice what He says everyday in our lives.our lives.

Acts 15:30 So when they were sent off, they came to Antioch; and when they had gathered the multitude together, they delivered the letter.

Any problem in the church can be solved by ‘communication’ and talking.They talked, discussed, drew conclusions, They talked, discussed, drew conclusions, necessary inference and the peace was necessary inference and the peace was restored again in the church of Antioch.restored again in the church of Antioch.Imagine the expectation and anxiety from Imagine the expectation and anxiety from the Christians in Antioch to know what the Christians in Antioch to know what was the resolution from the apostles.was the resolution from the apostles.Imagine the attitude of those who were Imagine the attitude of those who were causing this big division when they heard causing this big division when they heard what was the verdict.what was the verdict.They probably quit and were ashamed.They probably quit and were ashamed.

Acts 15:31 When they had read it, they rejoiced over its encouragement.

They were waiting for any kind of response from the other apostles, when the letters were read…It is amazing how much ‘respect’ the Apostles of It is amazing how much ‘respect’ the Apostles of Jesus had.Jesus had.They rejoiced when they found out that those They rejoiced when they found out that those who came were ‘false’ teachers. They were trying who came were ‘false’ teachers. They were trying to divide the church and also to fulfill in full what to divide the church and also to fulfill in full what Paul told the elders in Acts 20:29…Paul told the elders in Acts 20:29…Let’s not be amazed to know that there are many Let’s not be amazed to know that there are many who want to destroy the church. Satan is using who want to destroy the church. Satan is using many in order to cause damage to His bodymany in order to cause damage to His body

Acts 15:31 When they had read it, they rejoiced over its encouragement.

We rejoice when we know that there are others concern about us.These Christians were ENCOURAGED when These Christians were ENCOURAGED when the letter was read… Do we all understand the the letter was read… Do we all understand the purpose of the church?purpose of the church?It is the responsibility of the mature Christians It is the responsibility of the mature Christians to support those who are weak or those who to support those who are weak or those who are having problems in any aspect in life.are having problems in any aspect in life.Galatians 6:2 Bear one another's burdens, and so Galatians 6:2 Bear one another's burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ.fulfill the law of Christ.John 15:12 "This is My commandment, that you love John 15:12 "This is My commandment, that you love one another as I have loved you.one another as I have loved you.1 John 4:21 And this commandment we have from 1 John 4:21 And this commandment we have from Him: that he who loves God must love his brother also.Him: that he who loves God must love his brother also.

Acts 15:32 Now Judas and Silas, themselves being prophets also, exhorted and strengthened the brethren with many words.

This is the “entrance” of Silas.From now on you’ll see this name very From now on you’ll see this name very attached with the name “Paul”.attached with the name “Paul”.Notice that verse 22 says that Silas and Notice that verse 22 says that Silas and Judas were “leading men among the Judas were “leading men among the brethren”.brethren”.They are important prophets and also They are important prophets and also Christians. Prophets because the church Christians. Prophets because the church needed these men before. The New needed these men before. The New Testament was not written yet.Testament was not written yet.They were very excellent in order to They were very excellent in order to encourage those who were in trouble, sad encourage those who were in trouble, sad or in any difficulty.or in any difficulty.

Oh, that we can learn to take care of one another!Are we doing it Are we doing it here at Northside? here at Northside? The answer is The answer is YES!YES!

Acts 15:33 And after they had stayed there for a time, they were sent back with greetings from the brethren to the apostles.

We do not know for how long Silas and Judas stayed with the church.But the fact is that they spent some time in order But the fact is that they spent some time in order to comfort them and enjoyed themselves with the to comfort them and enjoyed themselves with the church in Antiochchurch in AntiochAfter a while, they returned again to Jerusalem After a while, they returned again to Jerusalem and Antioch sent greetings to the church in and Antioch sent greetings to the church in Jerusalem and to all the brethren and apostles Jerusalem and to all the brethren and apostles by conduct of these two men.by conduct of these two men.Silas stayed for a while because as I mentioned, Silas stayed for a while because as I mentioned, him and Paul will be travel companions for the him and Paul will be travel companions for the second and third journeys that Paul will make second and third journeys that Paul will make later…later…

Acts 15:34 However, it seemed good to Silas to remain there.

We will see that this man also suffered for the sake of Jesus. They put their lives in danger of almost everything for the love that he had for the church of Christ.He, being a prophet, probably knew that He, being a prophet, probably knew that staying in Antioch and being partners with staying in Antioch and being partners with Paul will bring many problems in his life. Paul will bring many problems in his life. But he chose the better part.But he chose the better part.Acts 16:19 But when her masters saw that their hope Acts 16:19 But when her masters saw that their hope of profit was gone, they seized Paul and Silas and of profit was gone, they seized Paul and Silas and dragged them into the marketplace to the authorities.dragged them into the marketplace to the authorities.

Why choosing to suffer for Jesus’ sake Why choosing to suffer for Jesus’ sake when he can return to Jerusalem and be ok?when he can return to Jerusalem and be ok?

Acts 15:35 Paul and Barnabas also remained in Antioch, teaching and preaching the word of the Lord, with many others also.

The church in Antioch was very strong with many eloquent and holy men such as:SilasSilasJudasJudasPaulPaulBarnabasBarnabasThe EldersThe EldersThe ChristiansThe ChristiansPaul and Barnabas were teaching the Paul and Barnabas were teaching the brethren in that city. Imagine how strong brethren in that city. Imagine how strong that church was with such men…that church was with such men…

Acts 15:36 Then after some days Paul said to Barnabas, "Let us now go back and visit our brethren in every city where we have preached the word of the Lord, and see how they are doing."

The proposal from Paul to Barnabas is to go and re-visit all the churches that they planted with the help from God.We all this morning need to understand We all this morning need to understand that we ‘MUST TAKE CARE’ of what we that we ‘MUST TAKE CARE’ of what we started.started.It is not good to start something and not It is not good to start something and not to take care of it. Paul wants to go back to take care of it. Paul wants to go back again from where they almost kill him.again from where they almost kill him.Acts 14:22; 15:32, 41; 16:5; 18:23; Col. 2:7; 1 Thessalonians. 3:2; 2 Peter. 1:12

Acts 15:37 Now Barnabas was determined to take with them John called Mark.

Barnabas was DETERMINED to take with him JOHN MARK. Why?#1#1 Who was John Mark? Who was John Mark? a. The church in Jerusalem was a. The church in Jerusalem was gathering in the house of Mary the mother gathering in the house of Mary the mother of John Mark. Acts 12:12, 25.of John Mark. Acts 12:12, 25. b. b. John Mark was the Nephew of John Mark was the Nephew of Barnabas. Colossians 4:10.Barnabas. Colossians 4:10. c. John Mark abandoned Paul and c. John Mark abandoned Paul and Barnabas in the first trip. Barnabas in the first trip. Acts 13:13 Now when Paul and his party set Acts 13:13 Now when Paul and his party set sail from Paphos, they came to Perga in sail from Paphos, they came to Perga in Pamphylia; and John, departing from them, Pamphylia; and John, departing from them, returned to Jerusalem.returned to Jerusalem.

Acts 15:38 But Paul insisted that they should not take with them the one who had departed from them in Pamphylia, and had not gone with them to the work.

Was Paul being too strict by not giving John Mark a second chance?Did Paul forget that John Mark was a young man and Did Paul forget that John Mark was a young man and that he was “probably afraid of the trip”?that he was “probably afraid of the trip”?He was insisting not to take John Mark. Is it true what He was insisting not to take John Mark. Is it true what many said:many said:PAUL DID NOT LIKE JOHN MARK AT ALL.PAUL DID NOT LIKE JOHN MARK AT ALL.The Life of Paul was always in danger, he was The Life of Paul was always in danger, he was moving back and forth from city to city and he needs moving back and forth from city to city and he needs people who will be resolve to go the ‘extra mile” if people who will be resolve to go the ‘extra mile” if possible. possible. He did not want to be disturbed again by this attitude.He did not want to be disturbed again by this attitude.

Acts 15:39 Then the contention became so sharp that they parted from one another. And so Barnabas took Mark and sailed to Cyprus;

They end up fighting?Paul and Barnabas end up, according to the Holy Spirit, in a Paul and Barnabas end up, according to the Holy Spirit, in a contention contention SO SHARP.SO SHARP.So sharp was the disagreement that they split.So sharp was the disagreement that they split.Were they enemies at the end?Were they enemies at the end?Barnabas took John Mark and sailed to Cyprus the city from Barnabas took John Mark and sailed to Cyprus the city from Barbabas was from.Barbabas was from.Was Not Barnabas the son of consolation? Why then did he end Was Not Barnabas the son of consolation? Why then did he end up in such a great argument?up in such a great argument?Many believe that there will never be any disagreement among the Many believe that there will never be any disagreement among the members and that’s wrong. members and that’s wrong. Disagreements will come but we need to know how to handle Disagreements will come but we need to know how to handle them.them.

Acts 15:40 but Paul chose Silas and departed, being commended by the brethren to the grace of God.

Was not Paul the one who wrote to the Corinthians to be of the same mind? 1 Corinthians 1:10.Was not Paul the one who wrote to the Was not Paul the one who wrote to the Philippians to be of a humble mind? Philippians to be of a humble mind? Philippians 2.Philippians 2.Why end up in such a great argument Why end up in such a great argument over a “boy” or a young men?over a “boy” or a young men?We already explained.We already explained.The work of Christ looks for men of The work of Christ looks for men of dedication and resolution. For Paul, John dedication and resolution. For Paul, John Mark was not ready yet!Mark was not ready yet!

Acts 15:41 And he went through Syria and Cilicia, strengthening the churches.

Now Silas and Paul will visit some churches that they established in the cities of:Syria and Cilicia.How much do we know about Barnabas and How much do we know about Barnabas and John Mark’s preaching trip? Basically nothing.John Mark’s preaching trip? Basically nothing.Wasn't it important what they were doing? Why Wasn't it important what they were doing? Why does the Holy Spirit concentrate just on Paul does the Holy Spirit concentrate just on Paul and Silas preaching?and Silas preaching?Many have asked this question because they Many have asked this question because they really want to know what happened with really want to know what happened with Barnabas and Mark…Barnabas and Mark…The Holy Spirit did not reveal it to us!The Holy Spirit did not reveal it to us!

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Acts 15:1 And certain men came down from Judea and taught the brethren, "Unless you are circumcised according to the custom of Moses, you cannot be saved."