Introduction:
The Debate in Jerusalem, often referred to as the Jerusalem Council, is a pivotal event in early Christian history, recorded in the Acts of the Apostles, specifically in Acts 15. This gathering addressed a significant theological and cultural issue facing the early Church: the question of whether Gentile converts to Christianity were required to observe the Mosaic Law, particularly circumcision. This debate had profound implications for the spread of the Gospel and the unity of the early Church.

Context:
The early Christian community was predominantly Jewish, and the initial spread of the Gospel occurred within Jewish contexts. However, as the message of Christ reached Gentile populations, questions arose about the necessity of adhering to Jewish customs. The debate was sparked by certain individuals from Judea who taught, "Unless you are circumcised according to the custom of Moses, you cannot be saved" (Acts 15:1). This teaching caused considerable dissension and debate among the believers, prompting the need for a council in Jerusalem.

The Council:
The Jerusalem Council was convened with the apostles and elders to deliberate on this matter. Key figures in the early Church, including Peter, Paul, Barnabas, and James, played significant roles in the discussion. Peter recounted his experience with Cornelius, a Gentile who received the Holy Spirit without the observance of the Law, emphasizing that God "made no distinction between us and them, for He cleansed their hearts by faith" (Acts 15:9).

Paul and Barnabas shared testimonies of the signs and wonders God had performed among the Gentiles, further supporting the argument that faith in Christ, rather than adherence to the Law, was the basis for salvation. James, the brother of Jesus and a leading figure in the Jerusalem Church, provided a scriptural basis for the inclusion of Gentiles, quoting the prophet Amos: "After this I will return and rebuild the fallen tent of David...that the remnant of men may seek the Lord, and all the Gentiles who are called by My name" (Acts 15:16-17).

The Decision:
The council reached a consensus that Gentile converts should not be burdened with the full yoke of the Mosaic Law. Instead, they were to abstain from certain practices associated with idolatry and immorality. A letter was drafted and sent to the Gentile believers, stating, "It seemed good to the Holy Spirit and to us not to burden you with anything beyond these essential requirements" (Acts 15:28). This decision affirmed the sufficiency of faith in Christ for salvation and preserved the unity of the Church.

Significance:
The Debate in Jerusalem was a defining moment for the early Church, establishing a precedent for resolving doctrinal disputes through communal discernment and reliance on the Holy Spirit. It underscored the universality of the Gospel and the principle that salvation is by grace through faith, not by works of the Law. This event also highlighted the importance of maintaining unity within the diverse body of Christ, respecting cultural differences while upholding core theological truths.