What role does church leadership play in resolving conflicts, as seen in Acts 15:2? Setting the Scene in Antioch • Acts 15:2: “And after Paul and Barnabas had engaged them in serious argument and debate, the church appointed Paul and Barnabas and some other believers to go up to the apostles and elders in Jerusalem to see about this question.” • A sharp doctrinal dispute—whether Gentile believers must be circumcised—was threatening unity (vv. 1–2). • Rather than allow division to fester, the Antioch church sent representatives to recognized leaders—the apostles and elders in Jerusalem—for authoritative resolution. Recognizing the Need for Leadership Intervention • Leadership steps in when local discussion reaches an impasse. • The congregation trusted God-appointed leaders (Acts 20:28) to give clarity. • Paul and Barnabas modeled humility by submitting their own views to a collective elder body. Leadership as Guardians of Doctrine • Apostles and elders examined the Scriptures (Acts 15:15–17 quoting Amos) to settle the matter. • They protected the gospel from additions (Galatians 1:6-9). • Titus, an uncircumcised Greek, became a living proof of freedom in Christ (Galatians 2:1-5). • Sound doctrine safeguards liberty and prevents legalism (1 Timothy 4:16). Leadership as Mediators of Unity • The council produced a unanimous letter (Acts 15:22-29) that preserved fellowship between Jewish and Gentile believers. • Unity flowed from shared submission to Spirit-led leadership (Ephesians 4:11-13; 1 Corinthians 14:33). • Leaders balanced truth and love, avoiding both compromise and harshness. Practical Implications for Today’s Church • Seek elder guidance when disputes threaten gospel clarity. • Expect leaders to appeal to Scripture first, personal preference last (2 Timothy 3:16-17). • Congregations should receive decisions “with joy” when they align with God’s Word (Acts 15:31; Hebrews 13:17). • Leadership that confronts error and confirms truth fosters a healthy, united, mission-focused body (Philippians 1:27). |
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