Acts 15:2

And after engaging these men in sharp debate, Paul and Barnabas were appointed, along with some other believers, to go up to Jerusalem to see the apostles and elders about this question.

Study Bible

So Paul and Barnabas
The mention of "Paul and Barnabas" highlights two pivotal figures in the early Christian church. Paul, formerly Saul of Tarsus, was a Pharisee and a Roman citizen who experienced a dramatic conversion to Christianity. Barnabas, whose name means "son of encouragement," was a Levite from Cyprus and an early disciple who played a crucial role in introducing Paul to the apostles. Their partnership symbolizes the unity and diversity within the early church, as they both came from different backgrounds but were united in their mission to spread the Gospel.

had a sharp disagreement and debate
The phrase "sharp disagreement and debate" indicates a significant conflict. The Greek word for "sharp disagreement" is "paroxysmos," which suggests a provocation or intense contention. This highlights that even among early church leaders, there were strong differences of opinion. This conflict was not merely a personal dispute but a theological one, concerning the requirements for Gentile converts. It underscores the dynamic and sometimes contentious process of discerning God’s will in the early church.

with them
The "them" refers to certain individuals from Judea who were teaching that Gentile converts must be circumcised according to the custom of Moses to be saved. This group is often identified as the Judaizers, who believed that adherence to the Mosaic Law was necessary for salvation. This sets the stage for the Jerusalem Council, where the early church would address the relationship between the Law and the Gospel.

and the church appointed
The church's decision to appoint Paul and Barnabas, along with others, reflects the communal and authoritative nature of decision-making in the early church. The Greek word "tasso" implies an orderly arrangement or assignment, indicating that this was a deliberate and structured decision. It shows the church's commitment to resolving disputes through collective discernment and consultation with the apostles and elders.

Paul and Barnabas, along with some other believers
The inclusion of "some other believers" signifies the importance of community and accountability in the early church. It was not just the prominent leaders who were involved, but also other members of the church, reflecting a broader representation. This highlights the early church's emphasis on unity and collective wisdom in addressing doctrinal issues.

to go up to Jerusalem
The phrase "to go up to Jerusalem" is significant both geographically and theologically. Jerusalem was the center of Jewish worship and the location of the early church's leadership. The journey "up" reflects the city's elevated position and its spiritual significance as the place where the apostles resided. This pilgrimage underscores the importance of seeking guidance from the foundational leaders of the church.

to see the apostles and elders
The "apostles and elders" were the recognized leaders and decision-makers in the early church. The apostles, having been directly commissioned by Christ, held a unique authority, while the elders were respected leaders within the community. This structure of leadership provided a framework for addressing theological disputes and maintaining doctrinal integrity.

about this question
The "question" refers to the issue of whether Gentile converts needed to observe the Mosaic Law, particularly circumcision, to be saved. This was a pivotal moment in the history of the church, as it addressed the nature of salvation and the inclusivity of the Gospel. The resolution of this question would have profound implications for the mission to the Gentiles and the unity of the church.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Paul
A former Pharisee and persecutor of Christians, Paul became a leading apostle to the Gentiles after his conversion on the road to Damascus. His role in this passage highlights his leadership and commitment to resolving doctrinal disputes.

2. Barnabas
A Levite from Cyprus, Barnabas was known for his encouragement and support of early Christians, including Paul. He played a crucial role in the early church's mission to the Gentiles.

3. Jerusalem
The central hub of early Christianity, Jerusalem was where the apostles and elders resided. It was the location for the council that would address the doctrinal question at hand.

4. Apostles and Elders
These were the leaders of the early church in Jerusalem, responsible for maintaining doctrinal purity and unity among believers.

5. The Question
The specific issue at hand was whether Gentile converts to Christianity needed to follow Jewish law, particularly circumcision, to be saved.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Doctrinal Clarity
The early church faced significant challenges in maintaining doctrinal purity. This passage underscores the importance of addressing theological disputes with wisdom and unity.

The Role of Church Leadership
Paul and Barnabas's appointment to go to Jerusalem highlights the role of church leaders in resolving conflicts and guiding the congregation in truth.

Unity in Diversity
The inclusion of Gentiles without the requirement of following Jewish law demonstrates the church's commitment to unity amidst diversity, a principle that remains relevant today.

Seeking Godly Counsel
The decision to consult the apostles and elders in Jerusalem serves as a model for seeking godly counsel and wisdom when faced with difficult decisions.

The Gospel for All
The central issue of this passage reflects the broader biblical theme that the gospel is for all people, regardless of cultural or ethnic background.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the resolution of the doctrinal question in Acts 15:2 reflect the early church's commitment to unity and truth?

2. In what ways can modern churches learn from the example of Paul and Barnabas in addressing theological disputes?

3. How does the inclusion of Gentiles in the early church challenge us to embrace diversity within our own congregations?

4. What role does seeking godly counsel play in your personal decision-making process, and how can you apply this principle in your life?

5. How does the message of unity between Jews and Gentiles in Ephesians 2 relate to the events of Acts 15:2, and what practical steps can you take to promote unity in your community?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Galatians 2
Paul recounts his visit to Jerusalem to discuss the same issue, providing additional context and emphasizing the importance of maintaining the truth of the gospel.

Acts 10
Peter's vision and subsequent interaction with Cornelius, a Gentile, illustrate the early church's struggle with integrating Gentile believers and the divine revelation that salvation is for all.

Ephesians 2
Paul speaks of the unity between Jews and Gentiles in Christ, breaking down the "dividing wall of hostility" and creating one new humanity.