24.Dr. Owen's most extended
Dr. Owen’s most extended treatment on the Synod of Jerusalem (Acts 15) Here is Owen’s most extended treatment of the Synod of Jerusalem as it is described in
"(1) The occasion of it," he explains (XVI:207f), "was a difference in the Church of Antioch, which they could not compose among themselves; because those who caused the difference, pretended authority from the Apostles as is evident; verses 1,24. (Acts 15:1; Acts 15:24) "(2) The means of its convention [alias the reason for its then being convened] was the...reference of the matter in debate made by the Church at Antioch.
"(3) The persons constituting the Synod were the Apostles, Elders, and brethren of the Church at Jerusalem and the Messengers [Commissioners] of that of Antioch with whom Paul and Barnabas were joined in the same Delegation.
"(4) the matter in difference was debated as unto the mind of God concerning it in the Scripture, and out of the Scripture. On James’ proposal, the determination was made.
"(5) There was nothing imposed anew on the practice of the Churches.... Direction is given in one particular instance as unto duty necessary on many accounts unto the Gentile converts namely to abstain from fornication" etc.
"(6) The grounds whereon the Synod proposed the reception of and compliance with its decrees were four :
[1] That what they had determined was the mind of the Holy Ghost [Acts 15:28 a]....
[2] The authority of the Assembly, as convened in the Name of Christ and by virtue of His presence.... ’It pleased the Holy Ghost and us’ [Acts 15:28 b]....
[3] That the things which they had determined were ’necessary’ [Acts 15:28 c &
Acts 15:29 a]....
[4] From the duty with respect unto the peace and mutual communion of the Jewish and Gentiles Churches: ’Doing thus,’ say they, ’ye shall do well’ [Acts 15:29 b]."