Grasp the Gospel — Bible Comprehension Quizzes

Acts 15 Devotional

Saved the Same Way

“On the contrary, we believe it is through the grace of the Lord Jesus that we are saved, just as they are.””Acts 15:11 (BSB)

Some teachers arrive in Antioch insisting that Gentile believers cannot be saved unless they are circumcised and keep the law of Moses (15:1, 15:5). The question goes to the apostles and elders in Jerusalem, and the real question is whether faith in Jesus is enough.

Peter reminds them that God, who knows the heart, gave the Holy Spirit to Gentiles just as he had given him to them, and treated them no differently, cleansing their hearts by faith (15:8-9). Why put on new believers a yoke that no one has ever been able to carry? All are saved through the grace of the Lord Jesus, Jews and Gentiles alike (15:10-11). The believers in Antioch rejoice at the council's encouraging letter (15:30-31). The chapter is honest that even good leaders disagree. Paul and Barnabas part ways sharply over John Mark (15:39). Yet both go out commended to the grace of the Lord. You do not need to add anything to what Jesus has done, and you do not need to add it to anyone else.

To think about: What extra requirement do you tend to place on yourself or others before you will believe God accepts them?

About Acts 15: The Jerusalem Council

Some insist that Gentile believers must be circumcised, and the apostles and elders meet in Jerusalem. Peter affirms that all are saved by grace, James proposes a letter asking Gentiles to avoid certain practices, and Paul and Barnabas later part ways over John Mark.

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