Acts 15

Acts 15 (NKJV)

The Open Air Meetings before the Meeting!

15     And certain (self-appointed legalistic and Judaistic) men (possibly saved men who still didn’t understand grace yet, or unbelieving Judaizers trying to discredit God’s grace.  What we know for sure, is that they are men without the endorsement of the Jerusalem Church, v. 24)

There were literally thousands of Jews who believed in the Lord Jesus as their Savior, who still continued to practice the Law of Moses.  Acts 21:19–20 is an example of this.  “When he had greeted them, he [Paul] told in detail those things which God had done among the Gentiles through his ministry. 20 And when they heard it, they glorified the Lord. And they said to him, “You see, brother, how many myriads of Jews there are who have believed, and they are all zealous for the law;”

Why don’t all the Baptists, Free Methodists, Wesleyans, Full Gospel, Pentecostal and other denominations join together if we are all saved the same way through Christ?

There several different denominations that teach the true saving gospel of Jesus Christ, who yet are “all zealous for” their doctrine which we as Independent Baptists have some disagreements with.

Being much concerned about the rise of denominations in the church, John Wesley tells of a dream he had. In the dream, he was ushered to the gates of Hell. There he asked, “Are there any Presbyterians here?” “Yes!,” came the answer. Then he asked, “Are there any Baptists? Any Episcopalians? Any Methodists?” The answer was “Yes!” each time. Much distressed, Wesley was then ushered to the gates of Heaven. There he asked the same question, and the answer was “No!” “No?” To this, Wesley asked, “Who then is inside?” The answer came back, “There are only Christians here.” (Source unknown)

I am persuaded that as Pilot couldn’t frustrate God’s will and plans for His kingdom work, neither can the multitude of denominations that exist today.  While it is understandable why it would be difficult to work hand and hand in God’s kingdom work, it is not understandable why we would shoot at each other while working on the same straight and narrow highway to glory.  God will workout our differences and we will be unified into one unit in Glory.  Let’s rejoice in that and pray for God’s blessing upon one another as we all press on towards the same goal!

Luke 9:49–50 – John answered and said, “Master, we saw someone casting out demons in Your name, and we forbade him because he does not follow with us.”  But Jesus said to him, “Do not forbid him, for he who is not against us is on our side.”

And certain men came down from Judea and taught the brethren (the teachings of the Mosaic law that), “Unless (communicating there are no exceptions) Unless you are circumcised according to the custom of Moses, you cannot be saved.” (Satan is forever looking for an angle to confuse or especially neutralize the gospel as well as the gospel believers themselves.  Contaminating the gospel believers with legalism would have been a good way to do this.)

  • Think of the turmoil this would cause in the minds and hearts of those who thought they were already saved by faith alone apart from works.
  • Think of the emotions they were probably going through!  (Name some: anger, fear, confusion)

1 And certain men came down from Judea and taught the brethren, Unless you are circumcised according to the custom of Moses, you cannot be saved.

2 Therefore, when Paul and Barnabas (both heard of this, together they came to the rescue of the church family at Antioch, and they) had no small dissension (meaning they were fiercely opposed to their false teachings—In our terms today, we could say they were rabid against this false teaching) and [ they had no small] dispute with them (they engaged these men from Judah in an abrupt, toe to toe, nose to nose, fierce argument against their teaching), they (the church family at the Antioch church, [vs. 3]) determined that Paul and Barnabas and certain others of them (i.e., delegates of the church – of which Galatians 2: 1 & 3 tells us that Titus was a member of this delegation[1]) should go up to Jerusalem (the mother church of all gospel believing churches, about a 300 mile journey), to the apostles and elders, about this question (concerning what is required to be saved).

Warren Wiersbe asks, “What were these legalists actually doing and why were they so dangerous?” 

  • They were attempting to mix Law and grace and to pour the new wine into the ancient brittle wineskins (Luke 5:36–39).
  • They were stitching up the rent veil (Luke 23:45) and blocking the new and living way to God that Jesus had opened when He died on the cross (Heb. 10:19–25).
  • They were rebuilding the wall between Jews and Gentiles that Jesus had torn down on the cross (Eph. 2:14–16).
  • They were putting the heavy Jewish yoke on Gentile shoulders (Acts 15:10; Gal. 5:1) and asking the church to move out of the sunlight into the shadows (Col. 2:16–17; Heb. 10:1).
  • They were saying, “A Gentile must first become a Jew before he can become a Christian!

It is not sufficient for them simply to trust Jesus Christ. They must also obey Moses!”[2]

Consider the story of Hans the tailor [concerning the affects of legalism]. Because of his reputation, an influential entrepreneur visiting the city ordered a tailor-made suit. But when he came to pick up his suit, the customer found that one sleeve twisted that way and the other this way; one shoulder bulged out and the caved in. He pulled and managed to make his body fit. As he returned home on the bus, another passenger noticed his odd appearance and asked if Hans the tailor had the suit. Receiving an affirmative reply, the man remarked, “Amazing! I knew that Hans was a good tailor, but I had no idea he could make a suit fit so perfectly someone as deformed as you.”

Often that is just what we do in the church. We get some idea of what the Christian faith should look like: then we push and shove people in to the most grotesque configurations until they fit wonderfully! —Richard J. Foster.

When any religious leader says, “Unless you belong to our group, you cannot be saved!” or, “Unless you participate in our ceremonies and keep our rules, you cannot be saved!” he is adding to the Gospel and denying the finished work of Jesus Christ.[3]

Galatians 1:1–9 – Paul, an apostle (not from men nor through man, but through Jesus Christ and God the Father who raised Him from the dead), 2 and all the brethren who are with me, to the churches of Galatia: 3 Grace to you and peace from God the Father and our Lord Jesus Christ, 4 who gave Himself for our sins, that He might deliver us from this present evil age, according to the will of our God and Father, 5 to whom be glory forever and ever. Amen.

6 I marvel that you are turning away so soon from Him who called you in the grace of Christ, to a different gospel, 7 which is not another; but there are some who trouble you and want to pervert the gospel of Christ. 8 But even if we, or an angel from heaven, preach any other gospel to you than what we have preached to you, let him be accursed. 9 As we have said before, so now I say again, if anyone preaches any other gospel to you than what you have received, let him be accursed.

Galatians 2:16 – knowing that a man is not justified by the works of the law but by faith in Jesus Christ, even we have believed in Christ Jesus, that we might be justified by faith in Christ and not by the works of the law; for by the works of the law no flesh shall be justified.

Romans 3:28 – Therefore we conclude that a man is justified by faith apart from the deeds of the law.

3 So, being sent on their way by the church, they passed through (the regions of) Phoenicia and Samaria (mostly populated by the Hellenistic Jews and Samaritans who were more open to the gospel of pure grace), describing the conversion of the Gentiles (during their first missionary journey); and they caused (by testifying to the will and work of God in and through them) great (mega) joy to all the brethren. (“Joy to ALL the brethren,” it didn’t matter to the Phoenicians or Samaritans who was getting saved; Jew, Gentile, men, women, children, rich, poor, good people or bad people.)

We miss out on so much when we don’t live out the will and work of God. For example:

  • We miss out on our eternal rewards, only accumulating wood, hay and stubble as well as not being found faithful with the talents we have been given.
  • We miss out on bringing joy into the lives of others as we testify of His existence, presence and activities.
  • Can you think of some others?

 4 And when they (Paul, Barnabas, and the delegation) had come to Jerusalem, they were received by the church (family) and the apostles and the elders; and they reported all things that God had done with them (including their missionary trip as well as the men saying they needed to be circumcised.)

How is God working “all things … together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose?” (Romans 8:28)

God supplied a platform for Paul and Barnabas all along the journey to share about God’s gracious and merciful intervention on man’s behalf.

Verse 12 tells us that they DIDN’T talk about what they had done, but what God had done in and through them. Acts 15:12 – All the multitude kept silent and listened to Barnabas and Paul declaring how many miracles and wonders God had worked through them among the Gentiles.

  • God is “ALWAYS” to be the focus of our testimonies; He and His will is always to be on display.
  • We must “ALWAYS” serve the Lord to the best of our ability and responsibility, it is foolishness to think that by fulfilling the will of our Master that we or the service we are performing for Him has anything to do with us. He and His will is always to be on display.

 5 But (after they expressed all that was on their heart) some of the sect of the Pharisees who believed rose up, saying, “It is necessary to circumcise them (the Gentiles), and (not only that, but) to command them to keep the law of Moses.” (We’re going from bad to worse, and notice that these sects of the Pharisees don’t even wait for the Apostles or elders to respond!)

The New American Commentary states concerning these Pharisees, “It is not surprising that some Pharisees came to embrace Christ as the Messiah in whom they had hoped. For all their emphasis on law, it is also not surprising that they would be reticent [reserved] to receive anyone into the fellowship in a manner not in accordance with tradition. That tradition was well-established for proselytes—circumcision and the whole yoke of the law.”[4]

They [these Pharisees] were much like the weaker brothers of Romans 14:1–10, who held to dietary laws, rituals, and sabbath codes for conscience’s sake. They were convinced that Jesus of Nazareth was the Messiah who died for their sins and rose from the dead. That, however, did not immediately cause them to forsake keeping the Mosaic law as a way of life. They were genuine Christians but had not yet realized the liberating truth that the ceremonial and ritual shadows of the Old Covenant had passed away (Col. 2:16–17; Heb. 8:13).[5]

Today, most of us in our fundamental Baptist circles, wouldn’t try to add any works to salvation.  We agree that salvation is by God’s grace alone through the life, substitutionary death and resurrection of Jesus Christ on the sinners behalf.  But, sometimes we can get very pharisaical with our views of what we believe qualifies as eveb a worthy worship service.  Whether it be hymns verses choruses, or what kind of instruments should and shouldn’t be used, whether the preacher should wear a suit and tie or jeans and a polo shirt, whether a person should raise his or her hands or not, and on we could go.

A little boy’s prayer reveals the sadness of such an occurrence.  After attending church with his father one Sunday morning and before getting into bed that evening, the little boy knelt at the side of his bed and prayed, “Dear God, we had a good time at church today, but I wish You had been there.”

These gospel believing Pharisees were trying to revive and maintain a spiritual lifestyle and system of worship that was now empty of God’s blessing and presence.  It is so easy for us to do the same thing in our spiritual life and worship.

Well, After this Leap for the Platform, the Official Meeting of the Jerusalem Council Is Called to Order

6 Now the apostles and elders came together (privately) to consider this matter (although at least some of the congregation was present according to verses 12 and 22). 7 And when there had been much dispute (which makes it obvious that even this small private group was divided on the issues), Peter rose up (to express his insights) and said to them: “Men and brethren, you know that a good while ago (possibly around 10 years at this point) God (not they themselves) chose among us, that by my mouth the Gentiles (i.e., Cornelius, his family and friends) should hear the word of the gospel (the message of divine forgiveness) and believe. (which they did—of which Peter gave a full report of in Acts 11:1-18).

It’s obvious that this experience had powerfully impacted Peter’s life and theology, (cf., Acts 10:5, 20, 32).

Peter did not resist the Holy Spirit nor quench Him when he was prompted to go to the Gentile Cornelius.  Peter did not try to limit his spiritual lifestyle or worship to what he was used to, comfortable with or had practiced in the past.  Peter certainly had his preferences, but he was not in bondage to them. 

Again we see how much we lose out on when we live for ourselves ignoring the will of God and His kingdom work, or when we resist God’s will and kingdom work out of fear and self-preservation.  God intends for our experiences to powerfully impact our life and theology as well as the lives and theology of others. 

[Leignton Ford, in his book, “Good News is for Sharing,” says,] When I am conscious of the fear of failure holding me back, I go through a kind of personal checklist:

1. Does this fear come basically from pride, a fear that I will not live up to my own expectations or to those of others?

2. Do I remember that God has called me first to faithfulness, then to efficiency?

3. Do I trust that the Holy Spirit is working before me, with me, and through me?

4. Do I remember that I am called to be neither more nor less successful than Jesus Christ was? [He was faithful to His responsibility, doing His Father’s will.]

5. Do I remember that God does his greatest work when I seem to be weakest? Isn’t that, after all, the mystery of the cross?   —Leighton Ford, Good News is for Sharing, p. 65.

 8 So God (not we ourselves, but God), who knows the heart (unlike external matters like circumcision which we can see, the heart is internal—and which only God can see or know, and God), acknowledged them (opened the doors of heaven wide for the uncircumcised Gentiles) by giving them (referring to, indwelling and sealing them with) the Holy Spirit, just as (exactly as) He did to us (the circumcised Jews), 9 and made no (not a single, or even a minuscule) distinction between us and them (God didn’t respect either of us, Jew or Gentile over the other; both received the same blessing the same way, to the same degree by), purifying their hearts (literally “having internally cleansed their heart”) by (through saving) faith.  (It wasn’t be circumcised and then believe, it wasn’t believe as you are circumcised, they were saved regardless of circumcision.)

The heart of man is the place where God implants and increases faith that comes to expression in obedience and perseverance (Rom. 6:17; II Thess. 3:5). [6]

Proverbs 4:23 – Keep (guard, keep an eye on), your heart with (not a little, not 50% or even 99% diligence but), all diligence (meaning “above” or “more than all”—so guard your heart above or with more care and diligence than anything else), for (the reason being) out of it (your heart), spring the issues of life, (i.e., your heart determines the course of your life,  God is telling us in Proverbs 4:23 that our heart will be the mastermind of every decision, plan and choice we make during our lifetime).

One of the interesting aftermaths of a great flood which inundated Pittsburgh was the revelation of the underground life and structure of a great city. Passing along the streets, one looked down into man­holes, sewers, trenches, chambers, and boxes. One was amazed at the depth, the intricacy, and the extent of these catacombs of a modern city. Under normal conditions they are hidden from view, and we think little about them. Only the excavations and openings for the repair of the damage wrought by the flood revealed this subterranean world; and yet there were lodged and hidden the power lines, the gas, the electricity, the telephones, the water mains, without which the great granite buildings which raise heavenward are but cold, dark, and useless shells.

Like a great city, man has an underground life. It is not visible as the surface man is; yet the hidden man of the heart, as Peter calls him, is the real man. He is his heart.

When condemned to be executed, Sir Walter Raleigh was asked by the executioner which way he would lay his head. He replied, “The heart be right, it is no matter which way the head lies.” —Selected

Take my will, and make it Thine;
It shall be no longer mine.
Take my heart, it is Thine own;
It shall be Thy royal throne. —Frances R. Havergal

Romans 6:17 – God be thanked that though you were slaves of sin, yet you obeyed from the heart that form of doctrine to which you were delivered.

2 Thessalonians 3:5 – Now may the Lord direct your hearts into the love of God and into the patience of Christ.

The Spirit breathes upon the Word,

And brings the truth to sight;

Precepts and promises afford

A sanctifying light.

—William Cowper[7]

 10 Now therefore (since God saves Jews and Gentiles by faith alone), why do you (probably speaking predominately to the Pharisees pushing circumcision) test (tempt, question, provoke) God by putting a yoke (a heavy, chafing, unnecessary, and restrictive burden) on the neck of the disciples (an unbearable burden on the Gentile gospel believers) which neither our (Jewish) fathers nor we (ourselves) were able to bear? (to carry, to live under) 11 But we (now) believe that through (saving faith in) the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ (not by keeping the Law of Moses) we shall be (without question) saved (from eternal judgment and torment) in the same manner as they.” (There is only one Savior and one means to that Savior, grace, God’s unmerited favor.)

Acts 4:12 – Nor is there salvation in any other, for there is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved.”

Ephesians 2:8–10 – For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God, not of works, lest anyone should boast.  For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand that we should walk in them.

12 Then (after Peter’s argument) all the multitude (the entire Jerusalem congregation) kept silent (coming to a united and obvious conclusion) and listened to Barnabas and Paul declaring (not what “they” had done, but) how many miracles and wonders God had worked through them among the Gentiles. (Reinforcing God’s blessing upon the Gentiles.) 13 And after they had become silent (after Barnabas and Paul finished speaking), James (the now head of the Apostles and church) answered, (driving the last nail into the coffin of circumcision being necessary for salvation) saying, “Men and brethren, listen to me: 14 Simon has declared (very effectively) how God at the first visited the Gentiles to take out of them a people for His name. 15 And with this the words of the prophets agree (with Peter’s testimony), just as it is written: (in Amos 9:11-12 which addresses the millennial kingdom:)

16       ‘After this (after Israel’s rejection of Christ ends with the acceptance of Him as their Messiah) I (Jesus, the Messiah) will return and will rebuild the tabernacle (the monarchy) of David (of Israel, the Jews), which has fallen down (during their rejection of Christ as their Messiah); I will rebuild its ruins, and I will set it up; (I will restore kingdom and the Jewish nation with it.)

17       So that the rest of mankind (the offspring of the tribulation believers who survive the tribulation period and enter into the 1000 year reign of Christ) may seek the LORD (may place saving faith in Christ as well), even all the Gentiles who are called by My name (who believe Christ is the Savior, sharing the same spiritual blessings the Jews do, but without having to become proselytes), says the LORD WHO DOES ALL THESE THINGS.’ (by His will and power.)

18 “Known to God from eternity are all His works (In other words, “He not only foretold the calling of the Gentiles many ages ago by the prophets [and therefore it ought not to be a surprise or stumbling-block to us], but he foresaw and foreordained it in his eternal counsels, which are unquestionably wise and unalterably firm.”[8]) 19 Therefore (in light of this obvious truth) I judge that we should not trouble (unduly burden or unnecessarily complicate the lives of) those from among the Gentiles who are turning to God (through placing saving faith in Christ),

With the major doctrinal issue resolved, James turned to practical matters of fellowship. He and the other leaders were concerned not only that the Jews not trouble the Gentiles, but also that the Gentiles not trouble the Jews. The danger was that the Gentiles, reveling in their freedom in Christ, would pressure the Jewish believers to exercise that same liberty and violate their consciences. [9]

          DIVERSITY VERSUS UNITY

The early church experienced the difficulty of bringing together diverse peoples. Jews and Gentiles had so little in common! Different histories, traditions, practices, customs, cultures, languages. How do you possibly take such dissimilar groups and make them one?

  • One solution is to say, “You don’t.” Instead, you rewrite the rules. You segregate, isolate, and study each other with suspicion and from a distance. This response profoundly affects both our effectiveness and attractiveness. When there is snobbery or a judgmental atmosphere, the church betrays the teachings of Christ and loses all appeal.
  • The other solution is to submit our prejudices and presuppositions to the greater purposes of God. When we imitate him (Ephesians 5:1), we become tolerant, understanding, and accepting.

However, such tolerance is not meant to include sinful lifestyles. James mentioned a few laws that the Gentile believers should keep, with an understanding that basic morality and living for God would cover the rest. When believers of different races, ethnic backgrounds, and social strata come together in love and worship of the Savior, nothing gives greater glory to God or provides a more compelling witness.[10]

 20 but (concerning the practical aspects of living in harmony together) that we write to them (a minimum of requirements such as) to abstain from things (such as food) polluted by (or offered to) idols, from sexual immorality (which was often associated with the worship of pagan gods), from things strangled, and from blood (which are huge dietary customs for the Jews). 21 For (the reason we are asking you to comply with some of the requirements of the law [even though we know that in this new dispensation of grace they aren’t required], is because) Moses (referring here to the Law of Moses) has had throughout many generations those who preach him in every city, being read in the synagogues every Sabbath.” (Meaning, this teaching is “deeply” entrenched in the heart and lives of the Jews and in love everyone needs to be conscious and considerate of it.)

At least three things this decision accomplished in a practical way.

  1. First, it strengthened the unity of the church and kept it from splitting into two extreme “Law” and “grace” groups. President Eisenhower called the right kind of compromise “all of the usable surface. The extremes, right or left, are in the gutters.” Again, this is not doctrinal compromise, for that is always wrong (Jude 3). Rather, it is learning to give and take in the practical arrangements of life so that people can live and work together in love and harmony.
  2. Second, this decision made it possible for the church to present a united witness to the lost Jews (Acts 15:21). For the most part, the church was still identified with the Jewish synagogue; and it is likely that in some cities, entire synagogue congregations believed on Jesus Christ—Jews, Gentile proselytes, and Gentile “God-fearers” together. If the Gentile believers abused their freedom in Christ and ate meat containing blood, this would offend both the saved Jews and their unsaved friends whom they were trying to win to Christ. It was simply a matter of not being a stumbling block to the weak or to the lost (Rom. 14:13–21).
  3. Third, this decision brought blessing as the letter was shared with the various Gentile congregations. Paul and Barnabas, along with Judas and Silas, took the good news to Antioch; and the church rejoiced and was encouraged because they did not have to carry the burdensome yoke of the Law (Acts 15:30–31). On his second missionary journey, Paul shared the letter with the churches he had founded on his first missionary journey. The result was a strengthening of the churches’ faith and an increase of their number (Acts 16:5).

What we can learn from this passage:

The decision by the Jerusalem council had great potential for trouble. The Jews could have balked—“That’s it?! Only four requirements? No circumcision?” The Gentiles could have squawked—“What do you mean, give up our favorite foods? That’s ridiculous! You elders caved in to the legalists! We thought Christianity was supposed to be based on liberty and freedom!”[11]

[Have we not seen though in this passage that] Problems and differences are opportunities for growth just as much as … [disagreement] and division. Churches [and their families] need to work together and take time to listen, love, and learn. How many hurtful fights and splits could have been avoided if only some of God’s people had given the Spirit time to speak and to work. [Did the Holy Spirit work out this issue of circumcision out over night?  No.]

Most divisions are caused by “followers” and “leaders.” A powerful leader gets a following, refuses to give in on even the smallest matter, and before long there is a split.

Most church problems are not caused by doctrinal differences but by different viewpoints on practical matters. What color shall we paint the church kitchen? Can we change the order of the service?

Christians need to learn the art of loving compromise.

As we deal with our differences, [a good question to ask is], “How will our decisions affect the united witness of the church to the lost?” Jesus prayed that His people might be united so that the world might believe on Him (John 17:20–21).  “I do not pray for these alone, but also for those who will believe in Me through their word; that they all may be one, as You, Father, are in Me, and I in You; that they also may be one in Us, that the world may believe that You sent Me.” [12]

Is unity the same as uniformity?  No. One is based on love and the other is based on law.

There is no end to the potential opportunities for disunity.  And the tenacity of evil forces endeavoring to take advantage of those opportunities is relentless.

22 Then (as a result of the counsels conclusion) it pleased the apostles and elders, with the whole church (family), to send (send here is the Greek word used for formal actions, so they resolved/voted to send) chosen (select) men of their own company to Antioch with Paul and Barnabas (to verify the counsels conclusion so pharisaic individuals couldn’t say Paul and Barnabas were lying about the results), namely, Judas who was also named Barsabas (which nothing is known about), and Silas (who is the Silas that will accompany Paul on his second missionary journey.  Judas and Silas both were), leading men (two of the best from) among the brethren (the Jerusalem church family).

23 They wrote this letter by them (which read): The apostles, the elders, and the brethren, to the brethren who are of the Gentiles in Antioch, (as well as) Syria, and Cilicia (of which Antioch is the capital of): Greetings.

24  Since we have heard that some who went out from us (from Jerusalem, the Judaizers) have troubled you (“troubled” meaning caused you acute emotional and/or mental distress or turbulence) with words, unsettling your souls, (The word “unsettling” means to devastate, to plunder, to dismantle, to ravage, to wreck, to cause havoc.  It’s the word used for a person who suffers great distress from going bankrupt or of one being plundered by an enemy.) we have heard that some who went out from us have troubled you with words, unsettling your souls, saying, “You must be circumcised and keep the law”—to whom we (Jerusalem) gave no such commandment— (these Judaizers acted on their own)

The degree of turmoil this pharisaic group created was huge!  It was no small matter.

 25 it seemed good to us (at the counsel), being assembled with one accord (with one purpose, with one mind), to send chosen men to you with our beloved Barnabas and Paul, 26 men who have (also) risked their lives for the name (the character, will and purpose) of our Lord Jesus Christ.

What made them [or makes anyone] willing to risk their lives [and thus should help us to do the same]?

  1. First, they were concerned for others. To the Philippians Paul wrote, “Even if I am being poured out as a drink offering upon the sacrifice and service of your faith, I rejoice and share my joy with you all” (Phil. 2:17).
  2. Second, they knew the path of suffering led to a richer provision of God’s grace. (2 Cor. 12:9–10).

2 Corinthians 12:9–10 – He said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore most gladly I will rather boast in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me. 10 Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in needs, in persecutions, in distresses, for Christ’s sake. For when I am weak, then I am strong.

3. Third, they understood the [endurance] of eternal life. In Romans 14:7–9 Paul wrote:

For not one of us lives for himself, and not one dies for himself; for if we live, we live for the Lord, or if we die, we die for the Lord; therefore whether we live or die, we are the Lord’s. For to this end Christ died and lived again, that He might be Lord both of the dead and of the living.

Knowing that in life or in death they were the Lord’s made them fearless.

4. Fourth, they knew that death merely gained them heaven, which they longed for. Paul expressed that hope in Philippians 1:21–23:

For to me, to live is Christ, and to die is gain. But if I am to live on in the flesh, this will mean fruitful labor for me; and I do not know which to choose. But I am hard-pressed from both directions, having the desire to depart and be with Christ, for that is very much better.5. Fifth, they sought to obey Christ at all costs, even when that obedience involved suffering.

1 Peter 2:21 – For to this you were called, because Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an example, that you should follow His steps:

6. Finally, and most significant, they were willing to suffer for the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.

When the apostles suffered persecution, they rejoiced “that they had been considered worthy to suffer shame for His name” (Acts 5:41). No cost was too high to pay to protect the honor of the Lord Jesus Christ.[13] Acts 5:41 (NKJV)

 27 We have therefore sent Judas and Silas, who will also report the same things (confirm the same conclusions; give a firsthand account) by word of mouth. 28 For it seemed good to the Holy Spirit, and (thus) to us, to lay upon you no greater burden than these necessary things: 29 that you abstain from things offered to idols, from blood, from things strangled, and from sexual immorality. If you keep yourselves from these, you will do well.  Farewell.

Continuing Ministry in Syria

30 So (it was) when they were sent off (from the Jerusalem Church), they came to Antioch (with the letter from Jerusalem); and when they had gathered the multitude together, they delivered the letter (to the church family).

The Four Responses over the Letter

  1. They rejoiced

31 When they (the Antioch church family) had read it, they rejoiced…

Knowing that their salvation was simply and purely “God’s” gracious work, was news worthy of shouting over!

There is absolutely no question whatsoever about the stand that the early church took on the great declaration of salvation: salvation is “by the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ” and by Him alone. —Preacher’s Outline and Sermon Bible – Commentary – The Preacher’s Outline & Sermon Bible – Acts.

2. They were encouraged

 31 When they had read it (the letter), they rejoiced over its encouragement.

[What was so encouraging about this letter?] They no longer needed to fear that their salvation was not genuine. Legalism produces fear, guilt, and pride, while grace alone brings comfort and hope (2 Thess. 2:16).[14]

(cp., Gen. 15, When God was making His covenant with Abraham, God caused Abraham to fall into a deep sleep and God alone walked between the sacrifices establishing Himself as the sole keeper of the covenant.)

2 Thessalonians 2:16–17 – Now may our Lord Jesus Christ Himself, and our God and Father, who has loved us and given us everlasting consolation and good hope by grace, comfort your hearts and establish you in every good word and work.

3. They were affirmed

 32 Now Judas and Silas, themselves being prophets also, exhorted (consoled) and strengthened (affirmed) the brethren with (not a few but) many words. 33 And after they had stayed there for a time, they were sent back with (relieved and thankful) greetings from the brethren (the church family at Antioch) to the apostles (at Jerusalem).

No longer being tossed to and fro by the seas of legalism, they were able to get their feet back under them and stand true and strong on the rock of truth.

Satan and his demons would not be able to play the same hand again at the church at Antioch. 

4. They were Focused

34 However, it seemed good (right, proper) to Silas to remain there (and not return to Jerusalem). 35 Paul and Barnabas also remained in Antioch (picking up where they had left off), teaching and preaching the word of the Lord, with many others (joining them in doing the same) also.

The Chinese word for “crisis” consists of two letters: one means danger and the other means opportunity. Indeed, every church crisis involves a [potentially] dangerous opportunity to bring either great glory or great shame to the name of Christ. Acts 15 is a good example of this truth.[15]

Although they had gotten safely over a huge hurtle, the Antioch church leaders and family, knew they were still a long ways from “arriving” in their faith.  There was much more that needed to be learned, accepted and applied in their knowledge and daily living.  So they got busy once again, pressing toward the goal, the prize of Christ-likeness.

Division Over John Mark

36 Then after some days (we don’t know whether it was a short or long number of days after the crisis) Paul said to Barnabas, “Let us now go back and visit our brethren in every city (even the dangerous ones) where we have preached the word of the Lord, and see how they are doing.” (to see if they are growing spiritually and numerically.  Antioch was a large and growing church, but God had burdened Paul’s heart for unevangelized regions.)

  1. The fact that Paul knew there were lands and people in those lands who had never heard the gospel created a tremendous burden upon his soul.

Romans 15:20 – I have made it my aim to preach the gospel, not where Christ was named, lest I should build on another man’s foundation,

2. The fact that Paul had evangelized new areas didn’t offset his burden for them.  Paul not only wanted to see the people come to Christ, but he also wanted to see them grow in Christ and to share Christ with their neighbors.  Paul was an evangelist with a pastor’s heart.     

The Life Application Commentary says, “Ministry is not either evangelism or edification; it is both. Christians have a dual role—to be both spiritual obstetricians and spiritual pediatricians. We help others become “born again” (John 3:3), and we aid them in growing up spiritually (1 Peter 2:2). We may have strengths in one area or the other, but like Paul, we should keep both goals in view.[16]

 37 Now Barnabas (was up for the trip too and) was determined (resolved, adamant) to take with them John called Mark (who previously deserted them during the first missionary trip). 38 But (in contrast to) Paul insisted that they should not take with them (John Mark) the one who had departed from them in Pamphylia, and had not gone with them to the work (he did not stay until the work was done).

After John Mark’s earlier failure, Paul had no confidence in him. The tough, battle-hardened soldier of Christ had no use for deserters. On the other hand, gentle, encouraging Barnabas insisted on giving his cousin (Col. 4:10) a second chance.[17]

 39 Then (in the tug-of-war concerning John Mark) the contention (dispute, disagreement) became so sharp (so violently accusatory) that they (Paul and Barnabas) parted from one another, (dissolved the partnership on bad terms and went their separate ways). And so (as a result the irreconcilable differences) Barnabas took Mark (himself) and sailed to Cyprus; 40 but Paul chose Silas (the highly respected man, who risked his life for the gospel in the past and who came down with them from the Jerusalem church after the counsel) Paul chose Silas and departed, being commended (recognized and authorized and not Barnabas and Mark) by the brethren (the Antioch church family) to the grace of God (for the missions trip).

[Silas] was in every respect a suitable man for missionary work.

  • As a prophet (Acts 15:32),
  • Adept at proclaiming and teaching the Word.
  • As a Jew, he had entrance into the synagogues.
  • As a Roman citizen (Acts 16:37), he enjoyed the same protection and benefits as did Paul.
  • And his status as a respected leader of the Jerusalem church reinforced Paul’s teaching that Gentile salvation was solely by grace. That was especially significant since part of their ministry involved delivering “the decrees, which had been decided upon by the apostles and elders who were in Jerusalem” (Acts 16:4).[18]

The question arises as to who was right, Barnabas or Paul. Although the Scripture does not explicitly say, the weight of the evidence favors Paul.

  • He was an apostle, Barnabas was not. Therefore, Barnabas should have submitted to Paul’s apostolic authority.
  • Also, Paul and Silas, but not Barnabas and Mark, were commended by the church (v. 40).
  • Finally, Barnabas should have realized that it would have been unwise and difficult to have Mark along if Paul did not trust him.

Although they apparently never again ministered together (this is the last mention of Barnabas in Acts), we know Paul and Barnabas eventually reconciled their differences, because Paul later wrote approvingly of Barnabas’s ministry (1 Cor. 9:6).

1 Corinthians 9:5–6 – Do we have no right to take along a believing wife, as do also the other apostles, the brothers of the Lord, and Cephas?  Or is it only Barnabas and I who have no right to refrain from working?

Even John Mark, the cause of all the trouble, later became one of Paul’s valued co-laborers:

 Colossians 4:10 – Aristarchus my fellow prisoner greets you, with Mark the cousin of Barnabas (about whom you received instructions: if he comes to you, welcome him),

2 Timothy 4:11 – Only Luke is with me. Get Mark and bring him with you, for he is useful to me for ministry.

[Mark] also became a close associate of the apostle Peter (1 Pet. 5:13) and was privileged to write one of the four gospels. Barnabas did a remarkable job in helping to turn around the life and ministry career of his young cousin.[19]

41 And he went (a different way than Barnabas, as Paul went by land) through Syria and Cilicia (beginning where Barnabas may have ended up), strengthening (affirming) the churches (to be established in their faith and remain firm in it.)

I wonder what Paul said when everyone asked where Barnabas was…

[1] Galatians 2:1, 3 Then after fourteen years I went up again to Jerusalem with Barnabas, and also took Titus with me… 3 Yet not even Titus who was with me, being a Greek, was compelled to be circumcised.

[2] Wiersbe, W. W. (1996). The Bible exposition commentary (Ac 15:1). Wheaton, IL: Victor Books.

[3] Wiersbe, W. W. (1996). The Bible exposition commentary (Ac 15:1). Wheaton, IL: Victor Books.

[4] Polhill, J. B. (1995). Vol. 26: Acts. The New American Commentary (324–325). Nashville: Broadman & Holman Publishers.

[5] MacArthur, J. F., Jr. (1994). Acts. MacArthur New Testament Commentary (326). Chicago: Moody Press.

[6] Kistemaker, S. J., & Hendriksen, W. (1953-2001). Vol. 17: Exposition of the Acts of the Apostles. New Testament Commentary (545). Grand Rapids: Baker Book House.

[7] Kistemaker, S. J., & Hendriksen, W. (1953-2001). Vol. 17: Exposition of the Acts of the Apostles. New Testament Commentary (545). Grand Rapids: Baker Book House.

[8] Henry, M. (1994). Matthew Henry’s commentary on the whole Bible: Complete and unabridged in one volume (Ac 15:6–21). Peabody: Hendrickson.

[9] MacArthur, J. F., Jr. (1994). Acts. MacArthur New Testament Commentary (326). Chicago: Moody Press.

[10] Barton, B. B., & Osborne, G. R. (1999). Acts. Life Application Bible Commentary (260). Wheaton, IL: Tyndale House.

[11] Barton, B. B., & Osborne, G. R. (1999). Acts. Life Application Bible Commentary (264). Wheaton, IL: Tyndale House.

[12] Wiersbe, W. W. (1996). The Bible exposition commentary (Ac 15:19). Wheaton, IL: Victor Books.

[13] MacArthur, J. F., Jr. (1994). Acts. MacArthur New Testament Commentary (326). Chicago: Moody Press.

[14] MacArthur, J. F., Jr. (1994). Acts. MacArthur New Testament Commentary (326). Chicago: Moody Press.

[15] Barton, B. B., & Osborne, G. R. (1999). Acts. Life Application Bible Commentary (265). Wheaton, IL: Tyndale House.

[16] Barton, B. B., & Osborne, G. R. (1999). Acts. Life Application Bible Commentary (267). Wheaton, IL: Tyndale House.

[17] MacArthur, J. F., Jr. (1994). Acts. MacArthur New Testament Commentary (326). Chicago: Moody Press.

[18] MacArthur, J. F., Jr. (1994). Acts. MacArthur New Testament Commentary (326). Chicago: Moody Press.

[19] MacArthur, J. F., Jr. (1994). Acts. MacArthur New Testament Commentary (326). Chicago: Moody Press.