Dictionary of Bible Themes Acts 15:1The Council of Jerusalem was possibly the first "assembly" of the Christian church, held c. A.D. 49 See also The Council met to consider whether circumcision was necessary for salvation Romans 4:9Galatians 5:2-3 Acts 15:2-12 Paul and Barnabas came from Antioch to Jerusalem to meet with the apostles and elders Acts 15:19-21The Council agreed not to make it difficult for Gentiles who turned to God See also The Council was concerned to avoid forcing Gentiles to adopt Jewish customs (such as circumcision), and at the same time to require Gentiles to behave considerately towards their "weaker brothers" of Jewish birth, not all of whom could be expected to acquire immediately the emancipated outlook on food-laws and the like that Peter and Paul had. Acts 15:15-18James showed how the decision had confirmed an earlier prophecy Amos 9:11-12Acts 15:23-29; 16:4 The written judgment was taken to the Gentile believers by Paul, Barnabas, Silas and Judas Acts 15:30-31; 16:5See also The Council's judgment proved to be a great encouragement to the Gentile believers 5109 Paul, apostle5375 law 7335 circumcision, physical 7511 Gentiles, in OT 7545 outsiders 7706 apostles 7720 elders in the church 7733 leaders 8414 encouragement |
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