How can Acts 15:11 guide us in sharing the gospel with others? Setting the Scene at Jerusalem - Acts 15 records a pivotal council where the apostles faced the question: must Gentile believers keep the Mosaic Law to be saved? - Peter stands and declares, “But we believe it is through the grace of the Lord Jesus that we are saved, just as they are” (Acts 15:11). - That single sentence becomes the Holy Spirit’s settling word for every generation: salvation is entirely God’s doing, applied to all who believe. Grace Alone: The Core of Our Message - Salvation rests on “the grace of the Lord Jesus,” not on human works, rule-keeping, or religious heritage (Ephesians 2:8-9; Titus 3:5). - When we share the gospel, we hold out a gift, not a task list. - Emphasizing grace keeps the focus where Scripture places it—on Christ’s finished work (John 19:30; Romans 3:24). Salvation for Everyone: The Scope of Our Audience - Peter’s words, “just as they are,” affirm that Jews and Gentiles come the same way—by faith alone. - No ethnic, cultural, or social barrier supersedes the cross (Romans 10:12-13; Acts 10:34-35). - We can approach every person—family member, coworker, neighbor, stranger—with confidence that the gospel applies equally to them. Removing Barriers: The Method We Choose - The council refused to “trouble” new believers with extra requirements (Acts 15:19). - In gospel conversations: • Avoid adding personal preferences or traditions as conditions. • Explain Bible truths in clear, everyday language. • Invite honest responses without pressure or manipulation. - By stripping away man-made hurdles, we showcase the simplicity and purity of Christ’s call (2 Corinthians 11:3). Anchored in Truth: Our Confidence While We Speak - Because Scripture is accurate and literal, we carry the unchanging authority of God’s own Word. - Our assurance rests not in eloquence but in the Spirit who wields that Word (1 Corinthians 2:1-5). - We can share boldly, knowing that what convinced hearts in Acts 15 still does so today. Living Out Grace: Our Everyday Testimony - The council’s decision led to “great encouragement” among believers (Acts 15:31). Grace not only saves; it sustains. - Demonstrating patience, humility, and forgiveness makes the message visible (Colossians 3:12-14). - A lifestyle shaped by grace authenticates the words we speak. Practical Takeaways for Conversations This Week - Start with Jesus—His life, death, and resurrection—before discussing behavioral change. - Use personal stories of how God’s grace met you; real examples clarify doctrine. - Keep a short, memorable verse ready—Acts 15:11 itself, Ephesians 2:8-9, or John 3:16. - Trust God for results. Your role is to plant and water; He brings the growth (1 Corinthians 3:6-7). |
    |