What role did "Barnabas and Paul" play in affirming God's work among Gentiles? Setting the Stage Barnabas and Paul had just returned from their first missionary journey, reporting how God was bringing Gentiles into the family of faith. Controversy arose in Jerusalem over whether Gentile believers had to keep the Law of Moses. Into that debate stepped these two men, eyewitnesses to God’s mighty work. The Key Verse “And the whole assembly fell silent as they listened to Barnabas and Paul describing the signs and wonders God had done among the Gentiles through them.” (Acts 15:12) Barnabas and Paul’s Specific Role • Spoke first-hand testimonies—no hearsay, only what they personally witnessed. • Highlighted “signs and wonders,” tangible proof God was at work. • Shifted focus from human requirements to God’s initiative. • United the assembly by replacing argument with undeniable evidence, causing “the whole assembly” to fall silent and listen. Supporting Examples from Their Ministry • Acts 14:27—“They reported everything God had done… and how He had opened the door of faith to the Gentiles.” • Acts 15:3–4—On the way to Jerusalem they “described in detail the conversion of the Gentiles, and brought great joy to all the brothers.” • Acts 13:46–48—Bold declaration that God “has made you a light for the Gentiles.” • Acts 14:3—The Lord confirmed their message “by enabling them to perform signs and wonders.” How Their Testimony Strengthened the Church • Validated Peter’s earlier experience with Cornelius (Acts 10:44–47). • Echoed Old Testament prophecy that the Gentiles would hope in Messiah (Isaiah 49:6; Romans 15:12). • Provided evidence that the Holy Spirit makes no ethnic distinction (Acts 15:8–9). • Helped James formulate the council’s final decision, freeing Gentiles from the yoke of the Law (Acts 15:19–21, 28). Take-Home Truths • God Himself authenticates the spread of the gospel; human testimony simply confirms His acts. • First-hand stories of God’s work carry weight in settling doctrinal disputes. • Unity flourishes when believers listen to what God is undeniably doing rather than clinging to tradition. • The same Spirit who empowered Barnabas and Paul still opens doors, proving that the gospel is for all people without distinction. |
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