What burdens did the Holy Spirit and apostles choose not to impose? Setting the Scene: The Jerusalem Council - Acts 15 records a pivotal meeting where Jewish and Gentile believers debated whether Gentile converts must keep the full Mosaic Law, especially circumcision (Acts 15:1, 5). - Peter, Paul, Barnabas, and James testified that salvation is by grace through faith, not by law-keeping (Acts 15:7-11; 15:12; 15:19). - The council’s letter summarizes the Holy Spirit’s guidance. The Core Decision in Acts 15:28 “ ‘For it seemed good to the Holy Spirit and to us not to burden you with anything beyond these essential requirements:’ ”. Burdens the Spirit and Apostles Chose NOT to Impose 1. Circumcision (Acts 15:1-2; Galatians 5:2-3). 2. Observance of the entire Mosaic ceremonial code—festivals, kosher regulations, ritual washings, etc. (Colossians 2:16-17; Galatians 4:9-11). 3. Any works-based prerequisite for salvation besides faith in Christ alone (Romans 3:28; Ephesians 2:8-9). 4. Additional man-made traditions that weigh down consciences (Mark 7:8-9). Essential Requirements They DID Ask (Acts 15:29) - “Abstain from food sacrificed to idols.” - “From blood and from the meat of strangled animals.” - “From sexual immorality.” These protected table fellowship between Jews and Gentiles and upheld basic moral purity (Leviticus 17–18; 1 Corinthians 6:18). The Freedom Affirmed - “It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm then and do not be encumbered once more by a yoke of slavery.” (Galatians 5:1) - Jesus invites the weary to His easy yoke (Matthew 11:28-30). - Believers serve out of love, not legal compulsion (Romans 13:8-10). Living Out This Liberty Today - Rest confidently in Christ’s finished work rather than human effort. - Guard against adding extra-biblical rules that eclipse the gospel. - Pursue holiness motivated by gratitude, not obligation (Titus 2:11-14). |
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