How can we ensure our church practices align with biblical teachings from Acts 15:1? Context of Acts 15:1 “Then some men came down from Judea and were teaching the brothers, ‘Unless you are circumcised according to the custom of Moses, you cannot be saved.’” (Acts 15:1) Central Issue: Adding to the Gospel • Certain teachers insisted on circumcision as a salvation requirement. • The apostles immediately challenged this, affirming that salvation is by grace through faith alone (cf. Acts 15:11; Ephesians 2:8-9). • Any practice claiming equal authority with the gospel itself must be examined and, if necessary, rejected. Key Principles for Alignment • Scripture is the final authority for doctrine and practice (2 Timothy 3:16-17). • The gospel must remain unchanged—salvation by Christ alone, apart from human works (Galatians 2:16; 1 Corinthians 15:3-4). • Unity is preserved when believers submit collectively to God’s revealed Word (Philippians 2:2). • The Holy Spirit guides the church as it tests everything by Scripture (Acts 15:28; 1 Thessalonians 5:21). Practical Steps for Our Church • Teach the whole counsel of God regularly, not just preferred topics (Acts 20:27). • Evaluate every tradition and ministry policy against clear biblical commands and patterns. • Establish elder oversight that meets the qualifications of 1 Timothy 3 and Titus 1. • Invite open Scripture-focused discussion when new practices are proposed. • Keep membership, baptism, and communion guidelines rooted in explicit New Testament teaching. • Use congregational meetings to rehearse the gospel, ensuring all decisions flow from it. Safeguards Against Drift • Encourage personal Bible reading and corporate study so everyone can “examine the Scriptures daily” (Acts 17:11). • Hold leaders accountable to preach expositionally and not add requirements God has not given. • Apply church discipline lovingly when teachings or behaviors contradict the gospel (Galatians 1:8-9; Matthew 18:15-17). • Maintain prayerful dependence on the Spirit, trusting Him to illuminate the Word (John 16:13). Encouraging Outcomes • A congregation confident in God’s grace, walking in freedom rather than legalism. • Doctrinal unity that strengthens fellowship and witness (John 13:35). • Practices that reflect biblical truth, bringing glory to Christ and clarity to a watching world. |
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