Acts 15:19-21 NIV Only Jesus
“It is my judgment, therefore, that we should not make it difficult for the Gentiles who are turning to God. Instead we should write to them, telling them to abstain from food polluted by idols, from sexual immorality, from the meat of strangled animals and from blood. For the law of Moses has been preached in every city from the earliest times and is read in the synagogues on every Sabbath.”
James was the brother Jesus, he was the respectful leader and a person full of wisdom. In the council of Jerusalem, there were debate on the salvation of the gentiles. Although they had believed Jesus Christ, there were different opinions on whether they were needed to have circumcision to be saved. The Pharisees and the apostles had a hot discussion on this issue. Peter explained, “God, who knows the heart, showed that he accepted them by giving the Holy Spirit to them, just as he did to us. He did not discriminate between us and them, for he purified their hearts by faith. No! We believe it is through the grace of our Lord Jesus that we are saved, just as they are.” (Acts 15:8-9, 11) Also, James spoke up, “Simon has described to us how God first intervened to choose a people for his name from the Gentiles. The words of the prophets are in agreement with this, as it is written:” (15:14-15) The gentiles were saved because they believed in Jesus, it was not because of circumcision. Follow up and disciple them were important. “Telling them to abstain from food polluted by idols, from sexual immorality, from the meat of strangled animals and from blood.” When they worshiped God, they would know more about God, this would be more beneficial for their growth in Christ.
We praise God for His love who gives us salvation. Whoever believes in Him shall be saved. This is a tremendous blessing. We are so blessed. We should not add other requirements for being saved. We trust their decision to follow Christ. Follow up is important to strengthen their faith, encourage them to come to worship service and have community time in fellowship and groups. They can experience the reality of the transformation of their lives. Only when people are willing, the Holy Spirit will lead them to grow healthily, grow to spiritual maturity. The laws or rules cannot lead to spiritual grow, only through the thankful heart and voluntary living out the Christ-centered lifestyle. May we demonstrate the will and plan of God in our lives. It is such a blessing!