What role does faith play in the salvation of Gentiles, according to Acts 15:7? Setting the Scene in Acts 15 - A sharp debate had erupted in Jerusalem over whether Gentile believers must be circumcised and keep the Law of Moses to be saved. - Peter recounts his earlier mission to Cornelius (Acts 10), reminding the council that God Himself initiated Gentile inclusion. Text Focus—Acts 15:7 “After much discussion, Peter got up and addressed them: ‘Brothers, you know that some time ago God made a choice among you that the Gentiles would hear from my lips the message of the gospel and believe.’” Key Observations about Faith and Salvation - God’s sovereign choice: “God made a choice.” Salvation begins with God’s initiative, not human ritual or merit. - The required human response: “hear … and believe.” Faith—simple trust in the gospel—is the single stated condition. - No additional requirements named: Circumcision, dietary laws, or any other works are absent from Peter’s summary. - Faith as the instrument, not the merit: Believing does not earn salvation; it merely receives the grace God freely offers. - Continuity with earlier revelation: Peter’s wording mirrors Acts 10:43—“Everyone who believes in Him receives forgiveness of sins.” Supporting Scripture Passages - Acts 15:8–9—God “gave them the Holy Spirit … He made no distinction … cleansing their hearts by faith.” - Acts 15:11—“We believe it is through the grace of the Lord Jesus that we are saved, just as they are.” - Romans 3:28—“For we maintain that a man is justified by faith apart from works of the law.” - Galatians 3:2—“Did you receive the Spirit by works of the law, or by hearing with faith?” - Ephesians 2:8–9—“For it is by grace you have been saved through faith—and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—not by works, so that no one may boast.” Practical Takeaways for Today - Confidence: The same gospel that saved first-century Gentiles saves us—by faith alone in Christ alone. - Unity: Because salvation rests on faith, cultural or ceremonial differences cannot divide believers. - Evangelism: Emphasize the essential—hearing the gospel and believing—without adding man-made hurdles. |
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