XIV. Hebrews
Author – Unknown. Traditionally attributed to Paul which is why it is found after Philemon. However, most Christian scholars do not believe Paul wrote Hebrews. The unknown author had great knowledge of the Old Testament and the Jewish sacrificial system. He was also well schooled in the Greek language and logic. The author presents in his epistle a rational/logical argument as to why Christ was the fulfillment of the Old Testament.
When – Written prior to the destruction of the Temple in Jerusalem in 70 A.D. Following its destruction, the Jewish sacrificial system came to an end.
To Whom – Jewish Christians. In the Old Testament, Jews were also referred to as Hebrews. The epistle was specifically targeted at Jewish believers who were tempted to revert to Judaism because of persecution or who wanted to Judaize the gospel by practicing Old Testament customs and traditions (circumcision, animal sacrifices, and strict Sabbath observances.)
Purpose – To make as clear as possible to Jews, Christian and non-Christian, the superiority of Christ over the Old Covenant. The author’s audience was very familiar with the Old Testament – scriptures, heroes, traditions, rituals, customs, sacrifices, etc. He used all of the previous found in the Old Testament to demonstrate the supremacy of Christ (He is superior to the prophets, angels, Moses, priesthood of Aaron, etc.), and to illustrate how Jesus is the fulfillment of the Old Testament/the Law. The author ends his letter with an exhortation for Jewish Christians to remain committed to their faith in the face of persecution. In the process, the author defines what faith is.
Key Verses – Hebrews 10:11-12; 11:1
XX. James
Author – James, half-brother of Jesus Christ. James was head of the Church in Jerusalem.
When – about 50 A.D.
To Whom – Jewish Christians.
Purpose – The overarching theme of James’ epistle is the relationship between faith and works. The Christians James wrote to claimed to have true faith in Jesus; yet, their actions showed no evidence to support their assertion. They practiced prejudice, discrimination, verbal abuse, quarreling, and other acts of unrighteousness. James chastised them for their hypocrisy and in the process explained what true faith is. Explain Paul vs James on topic of faith and works – Paul emphasized faith. James emphasized works. Audiences – Paul writing to Christians who believed circumcision, traditions necessary for salvation. James writing to Christians who believed believing God existed, Jesus died and resurrected was enough. Not necessary to love neighbor. James emphasis on works made Martin Luther to want to remove epistle from Bible.
Key Verses – James 2:17
Thursday, June 24, 2010
Thursday, June 10, 2010
Pauline epistles cont'd
XV. I Timothy
Author – Paul
When – Written about 64 A.D.
To Whom – Timothy, a disciple of Paul. He was very close to Paul. They had a father-son relationship. Paul first met Timothy during his second missionary journey through Asia Minor (present-day Turkey.) See Acts chapter 16. At the time this letter was written, Timothy was working with the church in Ephesus.
Purpose – Timothy was having to deal with a multitude of problems within the church of Ephesus – false teachings that created division and confusion, distractions that hampered worship services, poor leadership, and division based on wealth or social standing. In this letter, Paul gave Timothy instructions on how to confront these issues. He also offered encouragement to Timothy who was experiencing disrespect from the older members of the Ephesian church because of his young age. Read I Timothy chapter 4
Key verse – I Timothy 1:15-17
XVI. II Timothy
Author – Paul
When – Written about 67 A.D. from Rome shortly before Paul’s death. Chronologically, II Timothy is the last epistle Paul wrote that we have in the New Testament.
To Whom – Timothy, a disciple of Paul. He was very close to Paul. They had a father-son relationship. Paul first met Timothy during his second missionary journey through Asia Minor (present-day Turkey.) See Acts chapter 16. At the time this letter was written, Timothy was still working with the church in Ephesus.
Purpose – Paul knew that his death was near. His letter to Timothy can be read as his “Farewell Address” to Timothy and the Church. Paul was alarmed at the state of the Church. False teachings and factionalism plagued the Church. Persecution of Christians was on the rise. Given all this, Paul exhorted Timothy and the Church to remain faithful to Christ, to persevere in the face of adversity, to continue to preach the Gospel, to oppose false teachings, and to pursue righteousness. Paul informs Timothy that he, Paul, has fulfilled his mission on earth and is ready to accept his heavenly rewards.
Key verses – II Timothy 3:15-17; 4:6-8
XVII. Titus
Author – Paul
When – Written about 64 A.D.
To Whom – Titus, a Gentile Christian who worked closely with Paul. Titus acted as Paul’s “muscle.” If a church was experiencing problems – factionalism, false teaching, unrighteousness - Paul sent Titus to restore order. Example – Paul sent Titus to the church of Corinth to address and correct their many problems (II Corinthians chapters 7 and 8.) At the time Paul wrote this letter, Titus was overseeing the churches on the island of Crete off the coast of Greece. Paul and Titus had worked together to preach the gospel to the Cretans. When Paul moved on to his next destination, he left Titus with the responsibility to organize the Cretan churches and establish them in the true faith.
Purpose – Crete had a reputation for being an immoral society. Also, there was a Jewish presence on the island that did not get along with the native Cretans. The believers in Crete were immature in faith and were in need of instruction to overcome these obstacles. From reading Titus, Paul apparently found the Cretans to be difficult to minister to which is probably why he appointed Titus, “his muscle,” to oversee and establish the churches in Crete. Paul instructed Titus in the qualifications of church officials known as elders who would oversee individual churches. Paul exhorted Titus to rebuke false teachers (Titus chapter 1) and address immorality that plagued the Cretan church (Titus chapter 3.) Paul gave Titus specific instructions on what to teach the old and young, men and women, husbands and wives (Titus chapter 2.)
Key verses – Titus 2:11-15; Titus 3:3-8
XVIII. Philemon
Author – Paul
When – Written about 60 A.D. probably when Paul was imprisoned in Rome
To Whom – Philemon, a wealthy believer in Colosse, his family, and the believers meeting in his home.
Purpose – Paul wrote to Philemon to be lenient to his runaway slave Onesimus. Onesimus had fled Colosse and made his way to Rome where he met Paul in prison. Through his contact with Paul Onesimus became a Christian and assisted Paul with his ministry. The two developed a close friendsip. Onesimus is returning to Colosse and his master Philemon. Paul writes Philemon to accept Onesimus in love and as a brother in Christ not in anger and as his master. Receive him not as a slave but as a man. Welcome Onesimus as you would welcome me, Paul. He was confident that Philemon would do the right thing. Onesimus did return to Philemon bringing with him not only Paul’s letter to Philemon but also a letter Paul wrote to the church in Colosse that is the New Testament epistle known as Colossians. Read Colossians 4:7-9
Key verses – Philemon 1:6-7
Author – Paul
When – Written about 64 A.D.
To Whom – Timothy, a disciple of Paul. He was very close to Paul. They had a father-son relationship. Paul first met Timothy during his second missionary journey through Asia Minor (present-day Turkey.) See Acts chapter 16. At the time this letter was written, Timothy was working with the church in Ephesus.
Purpose – Timothy was having to deal with a multitude of problems within the church of Ephesus – false teachings that created division and confusion, distractions that hampered worship services, poor leadership, and division based on wealth or social standing. In this letter, Paul gave Timothy instructions on how to confront these issues. He also offered encouragement to Timothy who was experiencing disrespect from the older members of the Ephesian church because of his young age. Read I Timothy chapter 4
Key verse – I Timothy 1:15-17
XVI. II Timothy
Author – Paul
When – Written about 67 A.D. from Rome shortly before Paul’s death. Chronologically, II Timothy is the last epistle Paul wrote that we have in the New Testament.
To Whom – Timothy, a disciple of Paul. He was very close to Paul. They had a father-son relationship. Paul first met Timothy during his second missionary journey through Asia Minor (present-day Turkey.) See Acts chapter 16. At the time this letter was written, Timothy was still working with the church in Ephesus.
Purpose – Paul knew that his death was near. His letter to Timothy can be read as his “Farewell Address” to Timothy and the Church. Paul was alarmed at the state of the Church. False teachings and factionalism plagued the Church. Persecution of Christians was on the rise. Given all this, Paul exhorted Timothy and the Church to remain faithful to Christ, to persevere in the face of adversity, to continue to preach the Gospel, to oppose false teachings, and to pursue righteousness. Paul informs Timothy that he, Paul, has fulfilled his mission on earth and is ready to accept his heavenly rewards.
Key verses – II Timothy 3:15-17; 4:6-8
XVII. Titus
Author – Paul
When – Written about 64 A.D.
To Whom – Titus, a Gentile Christian who worked closely with Paul. Titus acted as Paul’s “muscle.” If a church was experiencing problems – factionalism, false teaching, unrighteousness - Paul sent Titus to restore order. Example – Paul sent Titus to the church of Corinth to address and correct their many problems (II Corinthians chapters 7 and 8.) At the time Paul wrote this letter, Titus was overseeing the churches on the island of Crete off the coast of Greece. Paul and Titus had worked together to preach the gospel to the Cretans. When Paul moved on to his next destination, he left Titus with the responsibility to organize the Cretan churches and establish them in the true faith.
Purpose – Crete had a reputation for being an immoral society. Also, there was a Jewish presence on the island that did not get along with the native Cretans. The believers in Crete were immature in faith and were in need of instruction to overcome these obstacles. From reading Titus, Paul apparently found the Cretans to be difficult to minister to which is probably why he appointed Titus, “his muscle,” to oversee and establish the churches in Crete. Paul instructed Titus in the qualifications of church officials known as elders who would oversee individual churches. Paul exhorted Titus to rebuke false teachers (Titus chapter 1) and address immorality that plagued the Cretan church (Titus chapter 3.) Paul gave Titus specific instructions on what to teach the old and young, men and women, husbands and wives (Titus chapter 2.)
Key verses – Titus 2:11-15; Titus 3:3-8
XVIII. Philemon
Author – Paul
When – Written about 60 A.D. probably when Paul was imprisoned in Rome
To Whom – Philemon, a wealthy believer in Colosse, his family, and the believers meeting in his home.
Purpose – Paul wrote to Philemon to be lenient to his runaway slave Onesimus. Onesimus had fled Colosse and made his way to Rome where he met Paul in prison. Through his contact with Paul Onesimus became a Christian and assisted Paul with his ministry. The two developed a close friendsip. Onesimus is returning to Colosse and his master Philemon. Paul writes Philemon to accept Onesimus in love and as a brother in Christ not in anger and as his master. Receive him not as a slave but as a man. Welcome Onesimus as you would welcome me, Paul. He was confident that Philemon would do the right thing. Onesimus did return to Philemon bringing with him not only Paul’s letter to Philemon but also a letter Paul wrote to the church in Colosse that is the New Testament epistle known as Colossians. Read Colossians 4:7-9
Key verses – Philemon 1:6-7
Pauline epistles cont'd
VII. I Corinthians
Author – Paul
When – Written about 54 A.D.
To Whom - Believers in Corinth, a wealthy, prominent city in Greece.
Purpose – To address factionalism and immorality plaguing the church.
Key verse - I Corinthians chapter 13
VIII. II Corinthians
Author – Paul
When – Written about 58 A.D.
To Whom - Believers in Corinth, a wealthy, prominent city in Greece.
Purpose – To defend Paul’s call as an apostle; warnings regarding false apostles; exhortation to give.
Key verse - II Corinthians 12:5-10
IX. Galatians
Author – Paul
When – Written about 50 A.D.
To Whom - Believers in the region of Galatia located in Asia Minor (present day Turkey.)
Purpose – To warn against legalism; Reiterate that salvation is attained by faith not works; what is true righteousness; role of Holy Spirit.
Key verse - Galatians 6:7-10, 17
X. Ephesians
Author – Paul
When – Written about 61 A.D. when Paul was imprisoned in Rome
To Whom - Believers in Ephesus located on the west coast of Asia Minor (present day Turkey.) Wealthy trade city. Home to the Temple of Artemis, one of the seven wonders of the ancient world.
Purpose – To encourage the believers, especially the Gentiles, to pursue righteousness; called for unity among believers, Jew and Gentile, husbands and wives, parents and children, employer and employees; how to overcome Satan – the armor of God.
Key verse – Ephesians 5:1
XI. Philippians
Author – Paul
When – Written about 60 A.D. probably when Paul was imprisoned in Rome
To Whom - Believers in Philippi located in Macedonia in northern Greece.
Purpose – Paul does not write anything negative about the church. He expresses his love and gratitude for the Philippian believers. He encourages unity. He offers counsel and encouragement on how to endure suffering and adversity.
Key verses – Philippians 1:27-30; 4:4-7
XII. Colossians
Author – Paul
When – Written about 60 A.D. probably when Paul was imprisoned in Rome
To Whom - Believers in Colosse located in southwestern Asia Minor (present day Turkey.) The city was in a state of decline during Paul’s day. The church was founded by Epaphras, one of Paul’s disciples. After the Colossians had finished reading the letter, they were to pass it on to the believers in Laodicea for them to read.
Purpose – The believers in Colosse had fallen prey to false teachings that questioned the deity of Jesus Christ – that He was God in flesh. These false teachers believed the flesh was evil; therefore, God would not lower Himself to put on sinful flesh. They also taught that one attained salvation from evil not through the death and resurrection of Jesus but by learning secret knowledge (gnosis.) Without this secret knowledge, a person would continue to live in bondage to ignorance and enslavement to evil. At death, his/her spirit will not know unity with the Supreme God. Paul wrote this letter to Colosse to denounce such teachings. See Colossians 1:15-27; 2:8-20. To encourage the believers, especially the Gentiles, to pursue righteousness. See Colossians chapter 3.
Key verses – Colossians 3:15-17
XIII. I Thessalonians
Author – Paul
When – Written about 51 A.D.
To Whom - Believers in Thessalonica, the largest city in Macedonia. It was a major military and commercial city located along a major Roman road. The city contained a large number of temples to Roman gods. The Gospel was not well received in Thessalonica. The believers were few in number and were experiencing persecution. See I Thessalonians 2:14-16. They had become greatly discouraged.
Purpose – To encourage the believers who were experiencing tremendous persecution and to express his concern for their spiritual health. Paul feared that the Thessalonian believers felt abandoned by him which Paul repeatedly stated was not the case. To encourage the believers, especially the Gentiles, to pursue righteousness. See I Thessalonians chapter 4. Paul offered assurance to the believers that those have died due to persecution will be resurrected first at Christ’s return and then those who are alive. When that will be, Paul writes that no one knows; therefore, be alert and pursue righteousness.
Key verse – I Thessalonians 5:16-22
XIV. II Thessalonians
Author – Paul
When – Written about 52 A.D.
To Whom - Believers in Thessalonica, the largest city in Macedonia. It was a major military and commercial city located along a major Roman road. The city contained a large number of temples to Roman gods.
Purpose – To clarify what he wrote in his first letter regarding Christ’s return. Some believers had developed an unhealthy fixation about Christ’s return. Others were in a state of panic because they had been duped by false teachers claiming to be from Paul who said that Jesus had already returned. To rebuke those taking advantage of the charity of Christians.
Key verse – II Thessalonians 2:15
Author – Paul
When – Written about 54 A.D.
To Whom - Believers in Corinth, a wealthy, prominent city in Greece.
Purpose – To address factionalism and immorality plaguing the church.
Key verse - I Corinthians chapter 13
VIII. II Corinthians
Author – Paul
When – Written about 58 A.D.
To Whom - Believers in Corinth, a wealthy, prominent city in Greece.
Purpose – To defend Paul’s call as an apostle; warnings regarding false apostles; exhortation to give.
Key verse - II Corinthians 12:5-10
IX. Galatians
Author – Paul
When – Written about 50 A.D.
To Whom - Believers in the region of Galatia located in Asia Minor (present day Turkey.)
Purpose – To warn against legalism; Reiterate that salvation is attained by faith not works; what is true righteousness; role of Holy Spirit.
Key verse - Galatians 6:7-10, 17
X. Ephesians
Author – Paul
When – Written about 61 A.D. when Paul was imprisoned in Rome
To Whom - Believers in Ephesus located on the west coast of Asia Minor (present day Turkey.) Wealthy trade city. Home to the Temple of Artemis, one of the seven wonders of the ancient world.
Purpose – To encourage the believers, especially the Gentiles, to pursue righteousness; called for unity among believers, Jew and Gentile, husbands and wives, parents and children, employer and employees; how to overcome Satan – the armor of God.
Key verse – Ephesians 5:1
XI. Philippians
Author – Paul
When – Written about 60 A.D. probably when Paul was imprisoned in Rome
To Whom - Believers in Philippi located in Macedonia in northern Greece.
Purpose – Paul does not write anything negative about the church. He expresses his love and gratitude for the Philippian believers. He encourages unity. He offers counsel and encouragement on how to endure suffering and adversity.
Key verses – Philippians 1:27-30; 4:4-7
XII. Colossians
Author – Paul
When – Written about 60 A.D. probably when Paul was imprisoned in Rome
To Whom - Believers in Colosse located in southwestern Asia Minor (present day Turkey.) The city was in a state of decline during Paul’s day. The church was founded by Epaphras, one of Paul’s disciples. After the Colossians had finished reading the letter, they were to pass it on to the believers in Laodicea for them to read.
Purpose – The believers in Colosse had fallen prey to false teachings that questioned the deity of Jesus Christ – that He was God in flesh. These false teachers believed the flesh was evil; therefore, God would not lower Himself to put on sinful flesh. They also taught that one attained salvation from evil not through the death and resurrection of Jesus but by learning secret knowledge (gnosis.) Without this secret knowledge, a person would continue to live in bondage to ignorance and enslavement to evil. At death, his/her spirit will not know unity with the Supreme God. Paul wrote this letter to Colosse to denounce such teachings. See Colossians 1:15-27; 2:8-20. To encourage the believers, especially the Gentiles, to pursue righteousness. See Colossians chapter 3.
Key verses – Colossians 3:15-17
XIII. I Thessalonians
Author – Paul
When – Written about 51 A.D.
To Whom - Believers in Thessalonica, the largest city in Macedonia. It was a major military and commercial city located along a major Roman road. The city contained a large number of temples to Roman gods. The Gospel was not well received in Thessalonica. The believers were few in number and were experiencing persecution. See I Thessalonians 2:14-16. They had become greatly discouraged.
Purpose – To encourage the believers who were experiencing tremendous persecution and to express his concern for their spiritual health. Paul feared that the Thessalonian believers felt abandoned by him which Paul repeatedly stated was not the case. To encourage the believers, especially the Gentiles, to pursue righteousness. See I Thessalonians chapter 4. Paul offered assurance to the believers that those have died due to persecution will be resurrected first at Christ’s return and then those who are alive. When that will be, Paul writes that no one knows; therefore, be alert and pursue righteousness.
Key verse – I Thessalonians 5:16-22
XIV. II Thessalonians
Author – Paul
When – Written about 52 A.D.
To Whom - Believers in Thessalonica, the largest city in Macedonia. It was a major military and commercial city located along a major Roman road. The city contained a large number of temples to Roman gods.
Purpose – To clarify what he wrote in his first letter regarding Christ’s return. Some believers had developed an unhealthy fixation about Christ’s return. Others were in a state of panic because they had been duped by false teachers claiming to be from Paul who said that Jesus had already returned. To rebuke those taking advantage of the charity of Christians.
Key verse – II Thessalonians 2:15
Wednesday, April 14, 2010
Overview of the Epistles of Paul
What is an epistle? A letter. Before e-mail and text messaging, a person use to get a pencil/pen and piece of paper and write about what is going on in their life, ask what’s going on in your life, how the family is doing, what the weather was doing, etc. They would put the letter in an envelope and mail it to whoever they wrote the letter to. The epistles of Paul were letters from Paul to groups of Christians and individuals. These letters were not social letters. They were sermons. Their purpose was to provide instructions on Godly living. Remember, there is no Bible. Yes, there was the Old Testament and early believers did read it; however, the Old Testament did not include the teachings of Jesus Christ. Paul, inspired by the Holy Spirit, wrote letters to the churches to share and instruct them in the teachings of Jesus.
If you recall from the book of Acts, Paul went on three missionary journeys through Asia Minor (present day Turkey) and Greece. He stopped at cities (Ephesus, Corinth, Philippi, etc.) along his journeys to preach the Gospel and strengthen/encourage/disciple believers. After leaving a city, Paul did not forget the believers he left behind. During his travels, Paul regularly kept tabs on the fledgling churches. Christians from these churches would visit Paul, usually when he was in prison, and Paul would ask them how things were in Ephesus, Corinth, Galatia. He would then compose a letter to address whatever issues the churches were experiencing. Paul would give words of discipline, encouragement, clarification, instruction all based on the teachings of Jesus Christ. The letter was read to the entire church; church leaders studied Paul’s words; church members discussed them in their homes. Oftentimes, the letter would be passed on to a nearby church for them to read. Ex. Colossians 4:16; Galatians. Paul’s letters were extremely valuable to early believers. No less than Peter himself placed Paul’s epistles on par with the Old Testament Scriptures (II Peter 3:15-16.) Therefore, the early believers made every effort to preserve his words so that they could regularly be reviewed as well as be passed on to future generations of believers. They did so by making copies.
Common themes found in Paul’s epistles:
1. How to be a Christian: Paul explained the principle of salvation – how does one become a Christian? In the process, Paul defined basic Christian concepts such as sin and faith.
2. What it means to be a Christian: After you become a Christian, what’s next? Paul explained the principle of righteousness – living a life based on God’s standards. That life should be different from the one you lived before you became a Christian. Paul explains the role the Holy Spirit plays in enabling us to live a righteous life.
3. Confronting adversity and tribulation: Early believers experienced persecution on every level – family, community, national. This persecution was not just physical. It was also social and economic. To the persecuted, Paul informed them about the source of contentment, hope, comfort, and peace.
4. Unity of believers: Paul emphasized the importance of unity in the church. He regularly compared the church to the human body and referred to the church as the body of Christ. A body is made up of different parts that must function together in order for the body to work properly. The early churches were made up of Jews and Gentiles who regularly did not get along. Among the more Gentile churches, factionalism was a problem. Members were divided over teachings, rituals, etc. To promote unity among believers, Paul taught on the concepts of forgiveness, acceptance, humility, and most importantly love all of which were characteristics embodied in Christ.
5. Words of warning against false teachings. The early church faced threats from false teachers. They included Jews who taught that in order to be a true Christian one had to strictly adhere to the Mosaic Law – circumcision, diet, festivals, etc. Paul condemned such teaching regularly in his epistles. He also cautioned early believers about “wolves in sheep clothing.” They were false teachers who claimed to have a more complete Gospel. The words sounded Christian but there would be a sprinkling of falsehoods that only a mature believer would recognize. Paul often had to counter these false teachings in his epistles.
VI. Romans
Author – Paul
When – Written around 57 A.D.
To Whom - Believers in Rome, the capital of the Roman Empire.
Purpose – To explain salvation, sin, righteousness, faith versus works, and the vital role of the Holy Spirit.
Key verse - Romans 12:1-2
If you recall from the book of Acts, Paul went on three missionary journeys through Asia Minor (present day Turkey) and Greece. He stopped at cities (Ephesus, Corinth, Philippi, etc.) along his journeys to preach the Gospel and strengthen/encourage/disciple believers. After leaving a city, Paul did not forget the believers he left behind. During his travels, Paul regularly kept tabs on the fledgling churches. Christians from these churches would visit Paul, usually when he was in prison, and Paul would ask them how things were in Ephesus, Corinth, Galatia. He would then compose a letter to address whatever issues the churches were experiencing. Paul would give words of discipline, encouragement, clarification, instruction all based on the teachings of Jesus Christ. The letter was read to the entire church; church leaders studied Paul’s words; church members discussed them in their homes. Oftentimes, the letter would be passed on to a nearby church for them to read. Ex. Colossians 4:16; Galatians. Paul’s letters were extremely valuable to early believers. No less than Peter himself placed Paul’s epistles on par with the Old Testament Scriptures (II Peter 3:15-16.) Therefore, the early believers made every effort to preserve his words so that they could regularly be reviewed as well as be passed on to future generations of believers. They did so by making copies.
Common themes found in Paul’s epistles:
1. How to be a Christian: Paul explained the principle of salvation – how does one become a Christian? In the process, Paul defined basic Christian concepts such as sin and faith.
2. What it means to be a Christian: After you become a Christian, what’s next? Paul explained the principle of righteousness – living a life based on God’s standards. That life should be different from the one you lived before you became a Christian. Paul explains the role the Holy Spirit plays in enabling us to live a righteous life.
3. Confronting adversity and tribulation: Early believers experienced persecution on every level – family, community, national. This persecution was not just physical. It was also social and economic. To the persecuted, Paul informed them about the source of contentment, hope, comfort, and peace.
4. Unity of believers: Paul emphasized the importance of unity in the church. He regularly compared the church to the human body and referred to the church as the body of Christ. A body is made up of different parts that must function together in order for the body to work properly. The early churches were made up of Jews and Gentiles who regularly did not get along. Among the more Gentile churches, factionalism was a problem. Members were divided over teachings, rituals, etc. To promote unity among believers, Paul taught on the concepts of forgiveness, acceptance, humility, and most importantly love all of which were characteristics embodied in Christ.
5. Words of warning against false teachings. The early church faced threats from false teachers. They included Jews who taught that in order to be a true Christian one had to strictly adhere to the Mosaic Law – circumcision, diet, festivals, etc. Paul condemned such teaching regularly in his epistles. He also cautioned early believers about “wolves in sheep clothing.” They were false teachers who claimed to have a more complete Gospel. The words sounded Christian but there would be a sprinkling of falsehoods that only a mature believer would recognize. Paul often had to counter these false teachings in his epistles.
VI. Romans
Author – Paul
When – Written around 57 A.D.
To Whom - Believers in Rome, the capital of the Roman Empire.
Purpose – To explain salvation, sin, righteousness, faith versus works, and the vital role of the Holy Spirit.
Key verse - Romans 12:1-2
Thursday, March 11, 2010
Paul in Athens
Background: Paul was in the midst of his second missionary journey. He was travelling with Silas and Timothy. He has been forced out of the city of Berea as an “agitator.” While Silas and Timothy remained in Berea, Paul travelled to the city of Athens. While waiting for Silas and Timothy to rejoin him, Paul takes in the sights of the once great city.
Read Acts 17:16-21
1) vs. 16 – As Paul is walking through the city what catches his eye and what is his reaction to them? Idols. Temples/statues to/of gods such as Athena, Zeus, Apollo, etc. Row after row in the city. Reaction – Irritated/angry
2) vs. 17 & 18 – What did Paul do while in Athens? What did he not do? Paul did not rebuke/chastise the Athenians for worshipping idols. He did not go “fire and brimstone” on them. He did not go around Athens destroying the idols and telling the Athenians to repent or go to Hell. If Paul had, how would the Athenians received Paul? Not well. Instead, Paul “reasoned” with Jews and God-fearing Gentiles (converts to Judaism) in the synagogue and with anyone in the market place. Greek word for “reasoned” – Dialegomai from which we get the English word “dialogue.” What did he “reasoned” with the Athenians about? Jesus and His resurrection. How do you think Paul “reasoned” with the Athenians? He entered into conversations with the Athenians. I don’t think Paul got into heated debates with the Athenians. It was probably more “What do you believe? Why do you believe what you believe? This is what I believe and why.” He would go to the synagogue, participate in the worship, and share Jesus with them using the Old Testament. Also, Paul would go to market place and strike up a conversation with a local Greek. The market place in Athens was known as the Agora. It was the social center of the city. There would be hundreds of merchants selling food, clothing, furniture, jewelry, etc. Think Short Pump Mall or Stony Point Mall. It was packed with hundreds of people. It was where people caught up with the latest news. It was the gathering place for the dissemination of ideas.
3) What two groups of philosophers did Paul converse with? Epicureans and Stoics. Athens was the birthplace and center of Greek philosophy. Philosophy (Greek – philo – love; Sophia – knowledge) – pursuit of knowledge and/or truth using reason/critical thinking. Greek philosophers questioned everything. Practiced the Socratic method - they constantly asked and answered questions to stimulate rational thinking and bring to light new ideas. Epicureans and Stoics were two of the more popular philosophies in Paul’s day. They were also rival schools of thought. Epicureans – taught that the chief purpose of humanity was to pursue pleasure through knowledge and living a moral life. Stoics – regarded emotions to be a hindrance to learning truth. They encouraged the development of self-control in order to overcome destructive emotions. Stoics taught that becoming a clear and unbiased thinker allows one to understand universal truth. Think Mr. Spock from Star Trek.
4) Where did the two groups of philosophers take Paul and what did they ask him to do? The Areopagus/Mars Hill to share more with them the new teaching he was proclaiming. The Areopagus (rock of Ares – Greek god of war) was a council made up of the intellectual elite of Athens who gathered to discuss philosophy, religion, morality, etc. The council influenced the religious and moral thought of Athens. Anyone bringing new religious/philosophical ideas, such as Paul did, were brought before the Areopagus. See verse 21.
Read Acts 17:22-31
5) vs. 22-23. How did Paul begin his speech to the Areopagus? He acknowledged that the Athenians were very religious. They had built idols for dozens of gods. They even had an altar to an unknown god in case they had missed a deity. They didn’t want to take a chance of offending that deity.
6) According to Paul, who was the Unknown God? The one true God. Paul goes on to explain to the Athenians who God is and who He is not and how He desires to have a close, intimate relationship with humanity. This relationship begins by humans repenting of their disobedience. For there will come a day will all will by judged by God through a Man whom God had raised from the dead.
7) Contrast Paul’s presentation of the Gospel to the Athenians with his presentation to the Jews in Acts chapter 13. Why the difference? In Acts 13, Paul relies heavily on Old Testament Scripture in sharing the Gospel with the Jews. In Acts 17, Paul does not cite the Old Testament Scriptures at all. In fact in verse 28, Paul quotes Greek literature in order to describe man’s relationship with God. The second quote “For we also are His children” comes from a Greek poem titled “Hymn to Zeus.” He doesn’t even say the name Jesus. If Paul had quoted from Psalms, Isaiah, and other Old Testament books as he did in Acts 13 or repeatedly said the name “Jesus Christ,” what response would he have gotten from the Athenians? Disinterest; confusion. Instead, Paul spoke to the Athenians in their language, literally and figuratively. He addressed them using logic and Greek literature. Where did Paul learn Greek philosophy and literature? A) Born and raised in a cosmopolitan city, Tarsus, that was heavily influence by Greek culture. B) During his Pharisee training under Gamaliel, who unlike other Pharisee teachers, embraced Greek culture. He exposed Paul to Greek philosophy and literature.
8) What responses from the Athenians did Paul receive to his presentation? A) Ridicule from those who rejected the idea of resurrection from the dead. Probably from the Epicurean philosophers who believed that when one died their soul and body dissipated into atoms. No afterlife. B) Some were open to hear more from Paul in the future. C) Some believed and became Christians one of whom was a member of the Areopagus.
Application:
1. Look for opportunities to share the Gospel. When Paul saw the altar to the Unknown God, he saw a way to introduce the Gospel to the Athenians.
2. When sharing the Gospel, do not come across as judgmental/holier than thou. We have all sinned and fallen short of the glory of God – Romans 3:23
3. When sharing the Gospel, know your audience. Talk to them using language, literally and figuratively, they understand. To someone who does not have a strong religious background, be careful not to throw a lot of Scriptures at them or use theological words (justification, sanctification, Trinity, propitiation, etc.)
4. Know that you will not always receive a positive response from your audience to the Gospel message. Some will ridicule you. But there will be some whose curiosity has been piqued and would like to talk more about the Gospel with you. And there will be one or two who will believe.
Read Acts 17:16-21
1) vs. 16 – As Paul is walking through the city what catches his eye and what is his reaction to them? Idols. Temples/statues to/of gods such as Athena, Zeus, Apollo, etc. Row after row in the city. Reaction – Irritated/angry
2) vs. 17 & 18 – What did Paul do while in Athens? What did he not do? Paul did not rebuke/chastise the Athenians for worshipping idols. He did not go “fire and brimstone” on them. He did not go around Athens destroying the idols and telling the Athenians to repent or go to Hell. If Paul had, how would the Athenians received Paul? Not well. Instead, Paul “reasoned” with Jews and God-fearing Gentiles (converts to Judaism) in the synagogue and with anyone in the market place. Greek word for “reasoned” – Dialegomai from which we get the English word “dialogue.” What did he “reasoned” with the Athenians about? Jesus and His resurrection. How do you think Paul “reasoned” with the Athenians? He entered into conversations with the Athenians. I don’t think Paul got into heated debates with the Athenians. It was probably more “What do you believe? Why do you believe what you believe? This is what I believe and why.” He would go to the synagogue, participate in the worship, and share Jesus with them using the Old Testament. Also, Paul would go to market place and strike up a conversation with a local Greek. The market place in Athens was known as the Agora. It was the social center of the city. There would be hundreds of merchants selling food, clothing, furniture, jewelry, etc. Think Short Pump Mall or Stony Point Mall. It was packed with hundreds of people. It was where people caught up with the latest news. It was the gathering place for the dissemination of ideas.
3) What two groups of philosophers did Paul converse with? Epicureans and Stoics. Athens was the birthplace and center of Greek philosophy. Philosophy (Greek – philo – love; Sophia – knowledge) – pursuit of knowledge and/or truth using reason/critical thinking. Greek philosophers questioned everything. Practiced the Socratic method - they constantly asked and answered questions to stimulate rational thinking and bring to light new ideas. Epicureans and Stoics were two of the more popular philosophies in Paul’s day. They were also rival schools of thought. Epicureans – taught that the chief purpose of humanity was to pursue pleasure through knowledge and living a moral life. Stoics – regarded emotions to be a hindrance to learning truth. They encouraged the development of self-control in order to overcome destructive emotions. Stoics taught that becoming a clear and unbiased thinker allows one to understand universal truth. Think Mr. Spock from Star Trek.
4) Where did the two groups of philosophers take Paul and what did they ask him to do? The Areopagus/Mars Hill to share more with them the new teaching he was proclaiming. The Areopagus (rock of Ares – Greek god of war) was a council made up of the intellectual elite of Athens who gathered to discuss philosophy, religion, morality, etc. The council influenced the religious and moral thought of Athens. Anyone bringing new religious/philosophical ideas, such as Paul did, were brought before the Areopagus. See verse 21.
Read Acts 17:22-31
5) vs. 22-23. How did Paul begin his speech to the Areopagus? He acknowledged that the Athenians were very religious. They had built idols for dozens of gods. They even had an altar to an unknown god in case they had missed a deity. They didn’t want to take a chance of offending that deity.
6) According to Paul, who was the Unknown God? The one true God. Paul goes on to explain to the Athenians who God is and who He is not and how He desires to have a close, intimate relationship with humanity. This relationship begins by humans repenting of their disobedience. For there will come a day will all will by judged by God through a Man whom God had raised from the dead.
7) Contrast Paul’s presentation of the Gospel to the Athenians with his presentation to the Jews in Acts chapter 13. Why the difference? In Acts 13, Paul relies heavily on Old Testament Scripture in sharing the Gospel with the Jews. In Acts 17, Paul does not cite the Old Testament Scriptures at all. In fact in verse 28, Paul quotes Greek literature in order to describe man’s relationship with God. The second quote “For we also are His children” comes from a Greek poem titled “Hymn to Zeus.” He doesn’t even say the name Jesus. If Paul had quoted from Psalms, Isaiah, and other Old Testament books as he did in Acts 13 or repeatedly said the name “Jesus Christ,” what response would he have gotten from the Athenians? Disinterest; confusion. Instead, Paul spoke to the Athenians in their language, literally and figuratively. He addressed them using logic and Greek literature. Where did Paul learn Greek philosophy and literature? A) Born and raised in a cosmopolitan city, Tarsus, that was heavily influence by Greek culture. B) During his Pharisee training under Gamaliel, who unlike other Pharisee teachers, embraced Greek culture. He exposed Paul to Greek philosophy and literature.
8) What responses from the Athenians did Paul receive to his presentation? A) Ridicule from those who rejected the idea of resurrection from the dead. Probably from the Epicurean philosophers who believed that when one died their soul and body dissipated into atoms. No afterlife. B) Some were open to hear more from Paul in the future. C) Some believed and became Christians one of whom was a member of the Areopagus.
Application:
1. Look for opportunities to share the Gospel. When Paul saw the altar to the Unknown God, he saw a way to introduce the Gospel to the Athenians.
2. When sharing the Gospel, do not come across as judgmental/holier than thou. We have all sinned and fallen short of the glory of God – Romans 3:23
3. When sharing the Gospel, know your audience. Talk to them using language, literally and figuratively, they understand. To someone who does not have a strong religious background, be careful not to throw a lot of Scriptures at them or use theological words (justification, sanctification, Trinity, propitiation, etc.)
4. Know that you will not always receive a positive response from your audience to the Gospel message. Some will ridicule you. But there will be some whose curiosity has been piqued and would like to talk more about the Gospel with you. And there will be one or two who will believe.
Wednesday, February 24, 2010
Council of Jerusalem pt. 2
Read Acts 15:13-23
14. James, the leader of the Jerusalem church, pronounced the judgment of the council. Were the Gentiles required to be circumcised and observe the customs of the Mosaic Law? No. James said that Jewish Christians should not make life difficult for Gentile Christians
15. What did the Council of Jerusalem require of Gentile Christians? 1) Not to eat meat sacrificed to idols. 2) Abstain from sexual immorality – Adultery, promiscuity, homosexuality, pedophilia, etc., 3) Abstain from meat of strangled animals. 4) Do not drink/eat blood. Why these four? All four were common Gentile practices. They were not taboo in Gentile society. Being new to the faith, many Gentile Christians still practiced some of the four not realizing they were sinful. However, the Scriptures written by Moses (Genesis-Deuteronomy) that had been read for centuries in every city that had a synagogue regarded such activities as sinful. Therefore, Gentile Christians should abstain from such acts.
The Council of Jerusalem sent Paul and Barnabas along with two representatives from the Jerusalem church, Barsabbas and Silas, to Antioch with a letter regarding the council’s judgment to be read to Gentile Christians.
16. In verse 31, what was the reaction of the Gentile Christians to the judgment of the Council of Jerusalem? Encouragement.
Impact of Council of Jerusalem on future of Christianity –
1) Ensured that the Church would be inclusive. People of all nations could become Christians.
2) Over the course of the next century Christianity became more Gentile. Many Jews continued to believe that the Mosaic Law and the surrounding oral traditions were necessary to know true salvation. Given the choice between Christianity and Judaism, more Jews chose Judaism.
3) The decision made by the Council of Jerusalem did not end the friction between Jewish Christians and Gentile Christians. There was still among the Jewish Christians prejudice against Gentiles and a desire to hang on to the “Old Testament” style of worship.
4) The decision made by the Council of Jerusalem established the precedent that salvation was attained through the grace of Jesus Christ NOT by our works.
5) The decision made by the Council of Jerusalem marked the beginning of what we know today as denominationalism. Not everyone agreed on the role works played in salvation even after the council’s decision. Paul and his followers emphasized grace. James and his followers emphasized works.
Postscript
Paul’s confrontation with Peter in Antioch and emerging split with Barnabas after the Council of Jerusalem. Read Galatians chapter 2.
14. James, the leader of the Jerusalem church, pronounced the judgment of the council. Were the Gentiles required to be circumcised and observe the customs of the Mosaic Law? No. James said that Jewish Christians should not make life difficult for Gentile Christians
15. What did the Council of Jerusalem require of Gentile Christians? 1) Not to eat meat sacrificed to idols. 2) Abstain from sexual immorality – Adultery, promiscuity, homosexuality, pedophilia, etc., 3) Abstain from meat of strangled animals. 4) Do not drink/eat blood. Why these four? All four were common Gentile practices. They were not taboo in Gentile society. Being new to the faith, many Gentile Christians still practiced some of the four not realizing they were sinful. However, the Scriptures written by Moses (Genesis-Deuteronomy) that had been read for centuries in every city that had a synagogue regarded such activities as sinful. Therefore, Gentile Christians should abstain from such acts.
The Council of Jerusalem sent Paul and Barnabas along with two representatives from the Jerusalem church, Barsabbas and Silas, to Antioch with a letter regarding the council’s judgment to be read to Gentile Christians.
16. In verse 31, what was the reaction of the Gentile Christians to the judgment of the Council of Jerusalem? Encouragement.
Impact of Council of Jerusalem on future of Christianity –
1) Ensured that the Church would be inclusive. People of all nations could become Christians.
2) Over the course of the next century Christianity became more Gentile. Many Jews continued to believe that the Mosaic Law and the surrounding oral traditions were necessary to know true salvation. Given the choice between Christianity and Judaism, more Jews chose Judaism.
3) The decision made by the Council of Jerusalem did not end the friction between Jewish Christians and Gentile Christians. There was still among the Jewish Christians prejudice against Gentiles and a desire to hang on to the “Old Testament” style of worship.
4) The decision made by the Council of Jerusalem established the precedent that salvation was attained through the grace of Jesus Christ NOT by our works.
5) The decision made by the Council of Jerusalem marked the beginning of what we know today as denominationalism. Not everyone agreed on the role works played in salvation even after the council’s decision. Paul and his followers emphasized grace. James and his followers emphasized works.
Postscript
Paul’s confrontation with Peter in Antioch and emerging split with Barnabas after the Council of Jerusalem. Read Galatians chapter 2.
Wednesday, February 17, 2010
Council of Jerusalem pt. 1
1. What is the difference between a Jew and a Gentile? A Jew is a descendant of Abraham through his wife Sarah. Abraham and his descendants through Sarah were chosen by God to bring salvation to the other peoples of the world (Isaiah 49:6.) Through the Jews all nations would be blessed (Genesis 12:1-3.) A Gentile is anyone who is not a descendant of Abraham through Sarah – Arab, Roman, Greek, Persian, African, etc.
Background: Acts chapter 14 ends with Paul and Barnabas giving their report to the church in Antioch about their missionary journey to Cyprus and Asia Minor. Specifically about how God had opened the door of faith to the Gentiles. One would think that this would be a cause for joy and celebration. However, as we’re going to see in chapter 15, the rapidly growing number of Gentile believers created a sharp disagreement within the Church and its leaders. The seeds for this discontent became first evident in Acts 11. A group of Christians referred to as “circumcised” believers were upset that Peter, a Jew, entered the home of a Gentile which was forbidden by the Law. After the “circumcised” believers heard from Peter how God poured out the Holy Spirit on the Gentiles, they acknowledged that God had offered salvation to the Gentiles. But, the news of Paul and Barnabas’ success with Gentiles in Cyprus and Asia Minor resurrected the Gentile debate within the Church.
Read Acts 15:1-6
2. Men from Judea would refer to whom? Jews or Gentiles? Jews.
3. What were they teaching? Unless you were circumcised in accordance with the custom taught by Moses, you cannot be saved. In other words, believing what Jesus said in John 3:16 was not enough for salvation. There was one other thing you have to do in order to be saved - circumcision. Background on circumcision (Genesis chapter 17) – God and Abraham made a covenant agreement. I will bless you and make you great. In return. Abraham and all his male descendants were to be circumcised - an outward/external/physical sign that the Jews were the followers of God. What custom do Christians follow that is similar to circumcision to show that we are followers of God? Baptism.
4. To whom did the men of Judea direct this teaching? People who were not circumcised, i.e., the Gentile believers. How do you think the Gentiles reacted to this teaching? Probably not well. To be circumcised as an adult was a painful experience. Moreover, they were probably confused. What the men of Judea were teaching was different from that of Paul and Barnabas. They said nothing about circumcision being necessary for salvation. In effect, the men from Judea were teaching the Gentile Christians that in order to be truly saved they must become Jews.
5. What was Paul and Barnabas’ response to the teaching of the men from Judea? They opposed it. Paul and Barnabas engaged them in debates.
6. What did the believers in Antioch do in order to resolve this debate? Sent Paul and Barnabas along with believers to seek the counsel of the apostles and leaders of the Church in Jerusalem on whether Gentile believers should be circumcised.
7. What did Paul and Barnabas do on the way to Jerusalem? They were sharing with believers how God was bringing the Gentiles to the faith. Their news was met as it should have been by all believers – great joy.
8. With whom did Paul and Barnabas meet with in Jerusalem and what did they talk about? The apostles (Peter, John, Matthew, etc.,) and elders (pastors.) Leaders of the church. They reported how during the missionary trip to Cyprus and Asia Minor many Gentiles had converted to the faith.
9. Who else spoke at this meeting? Pharisees who were Christians. Remember, Pharisees were teachers of the Mosaic Law. Their job was to explain to people what God wanted them to do to be righteous based on Scriptures and oral traditions. What did they say? The Gentiles have to be circumcised AND observe the Mosaic Law and all the oral traditions attached to it. Examples – the thousands of rules one had to remember and follow in order to properly observe the Sabbath, dietary habits (no pork), feast days, etc. Again, believing what Jesus said in John 3:16 was not enough for salvation. Christ’s sacrifice alone was not enough to ensure one’s salvation. One must also be circumcised and observe the Mosaic Law. In other words, the Gentiles must become Jews.
After hearing both sides, the apostles and the elders discussed the Gentile question among themselves.
Read Acts 15:7-12
10. Was there an immediate agreement reached by the apostles and elders? No. There was a lengthy debate. Evidently, the apostles were divided regarding the issue of the Gentiles and the Law. In Galatians chapter 2, Paul writes about the Council of Jerusalem from his point of view. From what Paul writes, it seems James, the leader of the Jerusalem church and brother of Jesus, sided with the Pharisee Christians. The Gentile question divided the leaders of the Church. They were in a no-win situation. Should the leaders decide that Gentiles should follow Jewish customs in order to be Christian, they would alienate the Gentiles. Should the leaders decide that Gentiles do not have to observe Jewish customs, they would alienate the Jews. The final decision would impact the future of the Church.
11. After a lengthy debate, which of the apostles stood up to speak? Peter. I can imagine Peter had remained silent during the debate and after hearing enough he decided it was time for him to say his piece. When Peter spoke, everyone listened. His words carried much weight. Why? He was the head of the Church appointed to that position by Jesus himself.
12. What did Peter say? He recounted how God had directed him to preach the Gospel to the Gentiles and God acknowledged their faith by granting them His Holy Spirit (Acts chapter 10.) Why are you Pharisee Christians (I can picture Peter looking directly at them.) intent on making God upset by seeking to put upon the Gentiles a burden (Mosaic law and oral traditions) that not even we or our Jewish ancestors were able to live up to successfully? (Read Matthew 11:28-30) No one in this room can honestly say they have faithfully observed every single command found in the Law. Consequently, observing the Law of Moses did not and cannot save us. Circumcision did not save us. Observing the Sabbath did not save us. The dietary laws did not save us. So why should we force the Gentiles to observe something that we Jews failed to live up to? What saved us is not the Law of Moses but the grace and mercy that our Lord Jesus the Messiah exhibited towards us by taking upon Himself the punishment for our failures to observe the Law of Moses so that we can know eternal salvation. Guess what? The grace and mercy that Jesus exhibited to us Jews is being granted to the Gentiles.
13. After Peter finished speaking what was the crowd’s reaction? Dead silence. No one disputed his words. They then listened to Paul and Barnabas speak about how God blessed the Gentiles.
Background: Acts chapter 14 ends with Paul and Barnabas giving their report to the church in Antioch about their missionary journey to Cyprus and Asia Minor. Specifically about how God had opened the door of faith to the Gentiles. One would think that this would be a cause for joy and celebration. However, as we’re going to see in chapter 15, the rapidly growing number of Gentile believers created a sharp disagreement within the Church and its leaders. The seeds for this discontent became first evident in Acts 11. A group of Christians referred to as “circumcised” believers were upset that Peter, a Jew, entered the home of a Gentile which was forbidden by the Law. After the “circumcised” believers heard from Peter how God poured out the Holy Spirit on the Gentiles, they acknowledged that God had offered salvation to the Gentiles. But, the news of Paul and Barnabas’ success with Gentiles in Cyprus and Asia Minor resurrected the Gentile debate within the Church.
Read Acts 15:1-6
2. Men from Judea would refer to whom? Jews or Gentiles? Jews.
3. What were they teaching? Unless you were circumcised in accordance with the custom taught by Moses, you cannot be saved. In other words, believing what Jesus said in John 3:16 was not enough for salvation. There was one other thing you have to do in order to be saved - circumcision. Background on circumcision (Genesis chapter 17) – God and Abraham made a covenant agreement. I will bless you and make you great. In return. Abraham and all his male descendants were to be circumcised - an outward/external/physical sign that the Jews were the followers of God. What custom do Christians follow that is similar to circumcision to show that we are followers of God? Baptism.
4. To whom did the men of Judea direct this teaching? People who were not circumcised, i.e., the Gentile believers. How do you think the Gentiles reacted to this teaching? Probably not well. To be circumcised as an adult was a painful experience. Moreover, they were probably confused. What the men of Judea were teaching was different from that of Paul and Barnabas. They said nothing about circumcision being necessary for salvation. In effect, the men from Judea were teaching the Gentile Christians that in order to be truly saved they must become Jews.
5. What was Paul and Barnabas’ response to the teaching of the men from Judea? They opposed it. Paul and Barnabas engaged them in debates.
6. What did the believers in Antioch do in order to resolve this debate? Sent Paul and Barnabas along with believers to seek the counsel of the apostles and leaders of the Church in Jerusalem on whether Gentile believers should be circumcised.
7. What did Paul and Barnabas do on the way to Jerusalem? They were sharing with believers how God was bringing the Gentiles to the faith. Their news was met as it should have been by all believers – great joy.
8. With whom did Paul and Barnabas meet with in Jerusalem and what did they talk about? The apostles (Peter, John, Matthew, etc.,) and elders (pastors.) Leaders of the church. They reported how during the missionary trip to Cyprus and Asia Minor many Gentiles had converted to the faith.
9. Who else spoke at this meeting? Pharisees who were Christians. Remember, Pharisees were teachers of the Mosaic Law. Their job was to explain to people what God wanted them to do to be righteous based on Scriptures and oral traditions. What did they say? The Gentiles have to be circumcised AND observe the Mosaic Law and all the oral traditions attached to it. Examples – the thousands of rules one had to remember and follow in order to properly observe the Sabbath, dietary habits (no pork), feast days, etc. Again, believing what Jesus said in John 3:16 was not enough for salvation. Christ’s sacrifice alone was not enough to ensure one’s salvation. One must also be circumcised and observe the Mosaic Law. In other words, the Gentiles must become Jews.
After hearing both sides, the apostles and the elders discussed the Gentile question among themselves.
Read Acts 15:7-12
10. Was there an immediate agreement reached by the apostles and elders? No. There was a lengthy debate. Evidently, the apostles were divided regarding the issue of the Gentiles and the Law. In Galatians chapter 2, Paul writes about the Council of Jerusalem from his point of view. From what Paul writes, it seems James, the leader of the Jerusalem church and brother of Jesus, sided with the Pharisee Christians. The Gentile question divided the leaders of the Church. They were in a no-win situation. Should the leaders decide that Gentiles should follow Jewish customs in order to be Christian, they would alienate the Gentiles. Should the leaders decide that Gentiles do not have to observe Jewish customs, they would alienate the Jews. The final decision would impact the future of the Church.
11. After a lengthy debate, which of the apostles stood up to speak? Peter. I can imagine Peter had remained silent during the debate and after hearing enough he decided it was time for him to say his piece. When Peter spoke, everyone listened. His words carried much weight. Why? He was the head of the Church appointed to that position by Jesus himself.
12. What did Peter say? He recounted how God had directed him to preach the Gospel to the Gentiles and God acknowledged their faith by granting them His Holy Spirit (Acts chapter 10.) Why are you Pharisee Christians (I can picture Peter looking directly at them.) intent on making God upset by seeking to put upon the Gentiles a burden (Mosaic law and oral traditions) that not even we or our Jewish ancestors were able to live up to successfully? (Read Matthew 11:28-30) No one in this room can honestly say they have faithfully observed every single command found in the Law. Consequently, observing the Law of Moses did not and cannot save us. Circumcision did not save us. Observing the Sabbath did not save us. The dietary laws did not save us. So why should we force the Gentiles to observe something that we Jews failed to live up to? What saved us is not the Law of Moses but the grace and mercy that our Lord Jesus the Messiah exhibited towards us by taking upon Himself the punishment for our failures to observe the Law of Moses so that we can know eternal salvation. Guess what? The grace and mercy that Jesus exhibited to us Jews is being granted to the Gentiles.
13. After Peter finished speaking what was the crowd’s reaction? Dead silence. No one disputed his words. They then listened to Paul and Barnabas speak about how God blessed the Gentiles.
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