The Assembly in Jerusalem, often referred to as the Council of Jerusalem, holds a significant place in early Christian history as a pivotal moment in the development of the early Church. This assembly is documented in the New Testament, specifically in the Book of Acts, and is considered the first major council of the Christian Church. It addressed critical issues concerning the integration of Gentile converts into the Christian faith, setting a precedent for how doctrinal disputes would be resolved in the future.

Biblical Account

The primary account of the Assembly in Jerusalem is found in Acts 15. The assembly was convened to address the controversy that arose when certain individuals from Judea taught that Gentile converts must be circumcised according to the custom of Moses to be saved (Acts 15:1). This teaching caused significant debate and division among the early believers, particularly in Antioch, where Paul and Barnabas were ministering.

Key Participants

The assembly was attended by key leaders of the early Church, including the apostles and elders. Notable figures included the Apostle Peter, James the brother of Jesus, Paul, and Barnabas. These leaders gathered in Jerusalem to deliberate on the matter and seek guidance from the Holy Spirit.

Peter's Address

Peter played a crucial role in the assembly by recounting his experience with Cornelius, a Gentile who received the Holy Spirit without the requirement of circumcision (Acts 15:7-11). Peter argued that God made no distinction between Jew and Gentile, purifying their hearts by faith. He emphasized that salvation comes through the grace of the Lord Jesus, not through adherence to the Mosaic Law.

James' Judgment

James, who was a leading figure in the Jerusalem church, offered a judgment that was pivotal in resolving the issue. He cited the words of the prophets, affirming that God's plan included the calling of the Gentiles (Acts 15:13-18). James proposed that the Gentile believers should not be burdened with the full yoke of the Law but should abstain from certain practices associated with idolatry and immorality (Acts 15:19-20).

The Apostolic Letter

The assembly concluded with the drafting of a letter to be sent to the Gentile believers in Antioch, Syria, and Cilicia. This letter, carried by Paul, Barnabas, Judas (called Barsabbas), and Silas, communicated the decision of the assembly. It stated that the Gentiles were not required to be circumcised but should abstain from food sacrificed to idols, blood, meat of strangled animals, and sexual immorality (Acts 15:23-29).

Significance

The Assembly in Jerusalem was a defining moment for the early Church, as it affirmed the inclusion of Gentiles without the necessity of adhering to the full Mosaic Law. This decision underscored the universality of the Gospel and the principle that salvation is by grace through faith in Jesus Christ alone. The assembly set a pattern for resolving theological disputes through communal discernment and reliance on the guidance of the Holy Spirit.

Legacy

The decisions made at the Assembly in Jerusalem had a lasting impact on the growth and unity of the early Church. By addressing the concerns of both Jewish and Gentile believers, the assembly helped to maintain the integrity of the Gospel message while fostering a spirit of inclusivity and fellowship among diverse believers. This event is often seen as a model for how the Church can navigate doctrinal challenges with wisdom and grace.