Acts 15

Acts 15:1

The story is told that, on a snowy January day at the turn of the century, a crowded passenger train steamed its way from Chicago to St. Louis. At one of many stops along the way, one of the travelers observed a young mother board the train with two small children in tow. “Please, sir, I need to get off at the city of Beaumont,” he heard her say to the conductor. The passenger, taking note of the overworked conductor, approached the young woman and said, “The conductor is busy. No doubt he’ll forget you want to get off at Beaumont. I’ve been on this train a hundred times. I’ll make sure you get off at the right place.” Several hours later, as the train decelerated, the man made his way to the young mother and said, “This is the spot. Here’s where you want to get off.” Thanking him, she gathered her children and went out into the blizzard. Half an hour passed before the conductor called out, “Where is the woman who wants to get off at Beaumont? It’s coming up in five minutes.” Horrified at what he heard, the man said, “What do you mean? Beaumont was the last stop we made.” “No, sir,” replied the conductor. “The last stop we made was to pick up water at a tank in the middle of nowhere.” And both men instantly realized that the woman and children had been sent off the train to their deaths. “Let not many of you desire to be teachers,” James wrote, “because if you seek to give instruction and direction, there is an inherent possibility that you will lead someone astray” (see Jas_3:1). And that is precisely what happened in Acts 15. Those who desired to be teachers in the radical missionary church at Antioch came from Jerusalem to give teaching to the new Gentile converts. But, as we will see, their teaching led to a blizzard of confusion and a storm of controversy. These teachers carried weight because they were from JerusalemHeadquarters, the Mother Church. Galatians 2 tells us they were associated with James himself. Even Peter was on the scene at this time, at least for a short season, for in Galatians we read that when Paul showed up, not only did he dispute the legalizing teachers, but he withstood Peter himself (Gal_2:11). Perhaps these men were sincere. Nonetheless, they were sincerely wrong in insisting that the new Gentile believers be circumcised before they could be saved. In other words, they were wrong to insist that to become a Christian, one had to first become a Jew.

Acts 15:2

I wonder if Paul didn’t say, “You want us to go to Jerusalem? The headquarters of Judaism? Can we get a fair trial there? Will I have the opportunity to speak? Will the Lord be able to work in the city where Judaism is so deeply entrenched?”

Acts 15:3

When the legalizers came into town there was heaviness, but when Paul and Barnabas passed through, there was great joy. I like that! Some people bring joy wherever they go. Others bring joy whenever they go. We can bring joy wherever we go because the gospel is such good news. We have the privilege of telling people, “Your sins are forgiven. You don’t have to be better or try harder. The price has been paid. The work is complete!”

Acts 15:4

Unlike the Sadducees, Pharisees embraced the miraculousespecially the possibility of resurrection. So, when Jesus rose from the dead, many Pharisees became believers. Here, they are arguing that Christianity should become a denomination within Judaism. Within the broad context of the Jewish religion, there are all sorts of flavors: Orthodox, Ultra-Orthodox, Reformed, Ultra-Reformed. Thus, if these Pharisees had their way, we would be just another flavorfollowing Rabbi Jesus.

Acts 15:6

As Peter took the stand, I wonder if Paul’s heart sank. After all, there had been obvious and unmistakable tension between them. You see, these early believers were anything but “cookie cutter” Christians. Read the writings of Paul and contrast them with James and Jude. Read 1 and 2 Peter, contrast them with Galatians, and you’ll sense wonderful individualism and a very healthy tension. Peter is alluding to the events of Acts 10, wherein he shared the gospel with the household of Cornelius.

Acts 15:9

They were purified because of their belief, not before their belief. Although we’re to be fishers of men (Mat_4:19), the problem with so many Christians today is that they are trying to clean the fish before they catch them. In reality, it is not until after men are hooked on Christ and brought into the boat of salvation that their hearts will change. Therefore, the great need of our world, our communities, and our families is not reformation but regeneration.

Acts 15:10

“Neither we nor our fathers could ever do enough to justify ourselves, to cleanse our sin, to earn God’s favor,” argued Peter. When asked the reason for his wealth, a multimillionaire is reported to have said, “As a young man, when I was first married I was dirt poor. Those were tough times, but being energetic, I took my last nickel and bought an apple. I spent the night polishing it until it became so shiny that it was indeed a thing of beauty. The next day, I sold it on the street corner for a dime. I took the dime and bought two apples, which I again laboriously polished. The next day, I sold those two apples for twenty cents. I took the twenty cents and bought four apples, which I polished and sold for forty cents. I took the forty cents, bought eight apples, and went on this way until I reached $1.60. Then, my wife’s dad diedand left us a million dollars.” That’s just like us! We try to say, “I am rich in the things of God because of my fasting and prayer, my devotion, sacrifice, and apple polishing"when in reality we are rich only because Jesus died and opened the floodgates of God’s grace upon us. Is the Yoke on You? A Topical Study of Act_15:10 Now therefore why tempt ye God, to put a yoke upon the neck of the disciples, which neither our fathers nor we were able to bear?Act_15:10 Peter’s question is pointed directly at me: “Jon, why do you attempt to correct God by laying burdens upon people?” In thinking through my answer, I believe there are five explanations for the propensity within each of us to put expectations, stipulations, obligations, and regulations upon our kids and our wives, our husbands and our friends as we burden them with yokes they are unable to bear. We put yokes on people because we sincerely care about them. “Because I really care about you,” we say, “I must tell you this Christianity thing is not as simple as you might think. You see, there are a few rules and regulations you need to know in order to be successful. Otherwise, you’ll go hog-wild and do things you shouldn’t.” And then we proceed to furnish people with our personal list of do’s and don’ts. Such has always been the tendency of people involved in religion. For example, God said, “Honor the Sabbath day.” Judaism said, “It’s not that simple.” That’s why the Talmud contains seven volumes concerning the do’s and don’ts of keeping the Sabbath. But the problem with rules and regulations is, there’s always a way to get around them. For example, although the Talmud forbade travel of more than one thousand paces on the Sabbath, if a Pharisee had to travel farther than that, he would stretch a rope from his house one thousand paces and call it an extended hallway. From the end of his new “hallway,” he would stretch another rope one thousand paces and continue doing so until he finally reached his destination. There’s a better way than the lawit’s love. As a father read to his three-year-old one night, his son interrupted him and said, “Daddy I love you.” “That’s great,” the father said and kept reading. Two minutes later, the toddler interrupted again, “Daddy, I love you.” “That’s great, son. I love you, too.” Finally, the little boy stood up on his dad’s lap, hugged him around the neck, smothered his face in his chest and said, “Daddy, I love you so much I just gotta do something about it.” Human nature will always find a way around the law. Love, however causes us do more than the law ever could. We put yokes on people because we secretly desire control over them. When Rehoboam, Solomon’s son, ascended the throne, he called the older men of the kingdom together and said, “Give me some advice.” “Your dad worked us hard and taxed us heavily,” they said. “Free us from the yoke he put upon us, and we’ll serve you to the end.” Then he called the younger men together and said, “What do you guys think I should do?” “Put a heavier yoke upon the people,” they answered (see 1Ki_12:10-12). Rehoboam followed the advice of the younger men. Under his rule, the people labored continuously, were taxed outrageouslyand finally rebelled completely. The country split in two because yokes always lead to division and rebellion. Watch out, parents. Compassion for people will produce what control over them never can. The heavy yokes you think will control your kids may do just the opposite and cause them to rebel, dividing your entire household in the process. We put yokes on people because we selfishly need to be esteemed by them. Because the Pharisees wanted to be thought of as more spiritual than they really were, they strutted through town with their phylacteries, praying long prayers on the street corners. After being instructed by God to dig through a wall in the temple, Ezekiel discovered a door through which he saw “every form of creeping things, abominable beasts and all the idols of the house of Israel” being worshiped by the elders of Israel (Eze_8:10-11). “This is what is happening in the chambers of imagination of the elders of Israel,” said the Lord. “Outwardly, they walk around piously in their flowing robes and phylacteriesbut inwardly they’re carnal and full of iniquity.” God never intended us to walk in false piety or phony spiritualitywhich is why Jesus said, “Blessed are the pure in heart and the poor in spirit” (see Matthew 5). We put yokes on people because we simplistically think we know what’s best for them. Because each of us is so different, God wants to work with us individually and in our hearts personally. Php_2:12 tells us to work out our own salvation with fear and trembling, for it is God who works within us to will and to do of His good pleasure. The principle of the New Covenant, as seen in Jeremiah 31, says the Lord will write His plan for each of us on the tables of our hearts. Thus, there is no need for us to tell others what they can and can’t do. Many years ago, I observed my kids as they watched a thunderstorm. Seeing the lightning, Benjamin, who was four at the time, immediately said, “I want to play Noah!” while Mary Elizabeth, who was five, started waving. One saw a flood; the other saw flashbulbs. As parents, we know how different our kids are. So, too, we must give that same space to our heavenly Father to deal with each of His children uniquely. We put yokes on people because we sadistically want to share our misery with them. The circumcisers said, “Because we endured pain, you have to endure pain as well.” And there are those today who, because of their misery and lack of joy, make everyone around them equally miserable by placing yokes of rules and regulations upon them. This ought not be. God’s desire is that we walk in joyfulness and with gladness of heart (Deu_28:47), which is why Jesus was accused of being a glutton, winebibber, and a friend of sinners. “Surely He cannot be the Son of God,” the Pharisees said. “He’s too happy.” Jesus said, “Take My yoke upon younot the yoke of religion, legalism, manipulation or expectation. My burden is easy. My load is light. Under My yoke, you will find rest for your souls.” (see Mat_11:28-30) Paul said, Finally, my brethren, rejoice in the Lord. To write the same things to you, to me indeed is not grievous, but for you it is safe. Beware of dogs, beware of evil workers, beware of the concision. For we are the circumcision, which worship God in the spirit, and rejoice in Christ Jesus, and have no confidence in the flesh.Php_3:1-3 Who is the true circumcision? Who are the true God-lovers? Not those who point to themselves, puff up themselves, or depend upon themselves; but those who worship God in the Spirit, rejoice in Christ, and have no confidence in the flesh. Gang, I want you to be the most free people in all the earthfree to walk in the glorious liberty to which you’ve been called, and free to allow others to do the same.

Acts 15:11

I love this! Peter didn’t say, “They shall be saved even as we,” but “we shall be saved, even as they.” In other words, “We believe that through the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, we Jews, who are so entangled in legalism, can be free to enjoy salvation by graceeven as Gentiles do.” This sounds dangerous to me, you might be thinking. After all, if we don’t keep a yoke on young Christians, they’ll run wild. Not so. The law leads to rebellion. Love leads to relationship. Growing up, every Saturday I had the job of washing our family car, a 1966 green Buick Skylark. The “law” demanded itso I did it. I squirted it down, threw a towel across it, and called, “It’s done, Pops,” even though there were spots on the windows and soap suds on the roof. But when I was sixteen, I got my license and fell in love (I thought) with a girl named Stephanie. From that point on, before every date, I could be found in the driveway washing, drying, waxing, and polishing my 1960 turquoise Falcon. And when I finished there wasn’t a spot to be seen, not a soap sud in sight. What was the difference? Love. Dear brothers and sisters, love is the ultimate source of spirituality. Don’t put yokes on people. Instead, let them see how much Jesus really loves them, and watch their relationship with Him soar (Rom_2:4).

Acts 15:12

Called “James the Just” because he was so righteous and “James the Camel-Kneed” because he spent so much time in prayer, this was the half brother of Jesus and the leader of the church at Jerusalem. James wisely used Peter’s Hebrew name because the debate centered on Jewish issues.

Acts 15:15

Many Bible scholars believe Amos 9, quoted here in Acts 15, alludes to the fact that before the temple is rebuilt, a tabernacle will be pitched in Jerusalem as a temporary temple. Be that as it may, Rom_11:25-26 declares that when the time of the Gentiles is over, the Lord is going to turn again to the nation of Israel and all of Israel shall be saved. But notice it is after the time of the Gentiles. At the end of the Gentile Age, the Rapture of the church will take place. Because Jesus said Jerusalem would be trodden down by the Gentiles until the times of the Gentiles be fulfilled (Luk_21:24), and because under Israeli rule, the city of Jerusalem has not been trodden down by the Gentiles for the last twenty-five years, does that mean the Rapture is twenty-five years late? No, it means we’re in overtime. The Age of the Gentiles is complete. The Rapture is imminent. But the Lord has chosen to extend His grace before ushering in the Tribulation.

Acts 15:17

“The residue of men” refers to those who will survive the Tribulation.

Acts 15:18

A group of theologians recently introduced the theory that God doesn’t really know exactly who’s going to be saved or what’s going to happenthat He’s kind of playing everything by ear as He goes along. Not true! When you get to heaven, God’s not going to say, “Oh, I’m glad you made it! I wasn’t sure you would.” No, James says God has known everything from the beginning of the world.

Acts 15:19

“In light of the Gentile Age,” concluded James, “there are four things from which we should tell new believers to abstain"one of which dealt with morality, the remaining three with sensitivity. The moral issue was fornication. I read in the paper recently that, according to one survey, couples who live together before marriage are fifty percent more likely to divorce during the first eight years of marriage than those who don’t. The Word is right again. The remaining three issues dealt with sensitivity because Jews were very sensitive about the issues of blood, strangulation, and meat offered to idols. You see, the best meat in those days was offered as a sacrifice in pagan temples before it was sold in the market at cheap prices. That is why in 1 Corinthians 10, Paul said, “It doesn’t matter whether meat is offered to idols or not. For yourself, don’t ask where it came fromjust enjoy it. But if your eating it will cause a weaker brother to stumblestay away from it.” The same is true today. Every one of us is either a stepping-stone or a stumbling stone, as we either allow people to get closer to God or cause them to stumble unnecessarily. In our freedom, we also need sensitivity.

Acts 15:21

Moses was unable to lead the people of God into the Promised Land because the law never leads to the land of milk and honey. It was Joshua who led the people into the Promised Land. What is the Greek name for the Hebrew name Joshua? Jesus. Jesus leads us into the Land of Promise because the law never can.

Acts 15:22

One of the men who was sent to Antioch was named Barsabas, which means literally “son of the Sabbath.” I like that! Son of the Sabbath was sent to tell the Gentile believers they were free to rest in the finished work of Christ.

Acts 15:23

The question I am asked more than any other is: “How can I know God’s will for my life?” Following are six ways I believe we can know the will of God as we see the hand of God guiding His people. God guides through church unanimity. The letter written to the church at Antioch stated that the believers in Jerusalem were in one accord. That’s so important. Whether you’re wrestling with an issue of lifestyle or doctrine, find out what the church says about it. Throughout church history, what has been the stance of the church regarding the subject with which you’re struggling? Beware of those who say, “You don’t need the church. It’s outdated and old-fashioned.” Pro_22:28 says, “Remove not the ancient landmark, which thy fathers have set.” It is through the wisdom of church unanimity presently and historically that God has guided His people very significantly. God Guides Through Gifted Men and Women in the Body God gave to the church prophets, pastors, evangelists, and teachers for the perfecting of the saints and the work of the ministry (Eph_4:11-12). How can you know God’s will? Be around whenever prophets, pastors, evangelists, or teachers expound the Word. It’s the wise woman, the mature man who approaches every Bible study, every time of fellowship expecting the Lord to speak through His body.

Acts 15:28

God Guides Through the Gifts of the Spirit Earlier in this chapter, there was much debate and discussion. Suddenly, James the Camel-kneed stood up, and as he spoke, an interesting thing happened. Everyone in the room melted into unity and agreement. The same is true for us. There are times when, during an endless dialogue or discussion, someone suddenly says something that settles not only in your brain or your mind, but deep within your heartand you know it’s the Lord, speaking through a word of wisdom. I hope when you’re struggling with finding God’s will for your life, you avail yourself of settings where words of wisdom, knowledge, and prophecy are being exercised. Frequently, that’s how the Lord speaks most clearly.

Acts 15:30

“Wonderful!” these Gentile men would have cheered in unison. “We don’t have to be circumcised. We don’t have to carry the heavy burden of legalism!” It amazes me how many people feel they haven’t been to church unless they walk out emotionally bloodied and battered. “I’m such a wretch,” they say. “Beat me, Pastor. Beat me. That was great. I can’t wait until next Sunday.” I believe this is due to a failure to understand the finished work of the Cross. We are truly forgivennot just theologically, but in reality.

Acts 15:32

God Guides Through Desires We May Have Personally As the delegation headed back to Jerusalem, Silas said, “I like it here in Antioch. I think I’ll stick around.” We’ll see how the Lord will use Silas’ personal desire as the book unfolds. The reason I teach the Word is because I love to teach. I’m doing exactly what I want to do. Those who imply that ministry is supposed to be a drudgery are lying. That’s bad theology and a blasphemy to the nature and character of our Father. In the highlands of Papua New Guinea, there is an area where it rains 362 days a year and the frogs spit poison. As of yet, Wycliffe Bible Translators has not found anyone to go into that region to translate the Word for the few folks who live there. But somewhere the Lord is preparing someone who will have a fascination with spitting frogs and rainy weather. That’s the way the Lord works. How do I know? Because Psa_37:4 declares, “Delight yourself in the Lord and He will give you the desires of your heart.”

Acts 15:35

God Guides Through Concerns We Feel Internally Paul said, “I’m curious about how the believers we saw five years ago are doing.” The same thing happens today. Suddenly, a situation, a need, or an opportunity will tug on your heart. The person next to you might not feel a thingnot because he’s insensitive or unspiritual, but because meeting that particular need is not his calling. The way of the Lord is to guide us individually through concerns we feel internally.

Acts 15:37

God Guides Through Interpersonal Difficulty “Let’s take John Mark with us,” said Barnabas. “I know he backed out last time, but I see potential in him.” “We can’t afford to bring someone we can’t count on,” insisted Paul. “Let’s leave him here.” Paul said, “What can he do for God’s work?” Barnabas said, “What can God’s work do for him?” Who was right? They both were. When Paul was in prison awaiting his death, who did he send for to comfort him? John Mark (2Ti_4:11). The consoling ministry of Barnabas paid off. Who crisscrossed the known world with the gospel? Paul. The compelling ministry of Paul paid off. God often guides through interpersonal difficulty. Is it the best way? I don’t think so. I think it’s much better to hear a word of wisdom, to learn from a teaching, to receive counsel and understanding from a gifted brother or sister. But a lot of times I’m just too dull of hearing and hard of heart to receive a word of wisdom or to make personal application from a Bible study. I have to bump heads with someone for God to get me going in the right direction.

I wish I could say, “My spiritual sensitivity is at such a level that I never have conflict with anyone at any time. I hear the voice of the Lord whispering in my ear in every situation. Consequently, I never have to go through contention or difficulty"but I’m not there, folks. I find great comfort, however, knowing that even Paul the apostle, at the high point of his ministry, was directed through interpersonal difficulty. The Lord used interpersonal difficulty to send two teams out instead of one. As a result, twice as many believers were encouraged, and twice as much ministry ensued. Six ways in which God guides His people are: through Church unanimity, through gifted men and women in the body, through the gifts of the Spirit charismatically, through the desires we have personally, through concerns we feel internally, and through interpersonal difficulty. Travel with us, and we’ll see three more in chapter 16.