Notes continued from Part 1
Paul and Barnabas, v12. Strangely, very little is recorded on their contribution to this discussion. As far as the limited information goes, they were content to rely on the vindication God had given to the gospel they had preached. The fact that their words were received in silence would seem to indicate that they were regarded as conclusive. This fact is further indicated by the fact that James’ conclusions and an agreed decision follows immediately.
IV A DECISION REACHED.
The Apostle James acts as a moderator in the discussion and when the discussion comes to an end, v13, he gives a synopsis of the conclusions they had evidently come to. Cp v19.
The Scriptures, v15. Cp Amos 9:11-12. It is striking to see the appeal to the word of God. Although many passages of a similar nature could have been adduced, it is striking to see that just one reference was needed. This passage indicated that the Lord was going to save Gentiles, but more than this—their salvation would be synonymous with the fall into ruin of Israel and her institutions—religious, Am 9:1, 9; political, v11.
Four requirements are laid down for church members. Cp v20, 28.
Two categories. Two of the four are relevant commands of God from the moral law that are underscored. These relate to idolatry and immorality. Given the background these Gentile believers came from it was felt specially needful to reiterate these Divine laws. Cp 1Cor 10:20-21, Rev 2:14. The other two are based on the need to avoid unnecessary offense. Specific dietary requirements of the Levitical law are imposed on these Gentile believers, not as necessary to salvation but so as to avoid scandalizing Jewish communities and Jewish believers. These regulations are described as decrees to be kept, 16:4. Such self-denial is a pattern of Christian living. Cp Rom 14:13-15, 21, 1Cor 8:12-13.
Burden. These requirements are in some sense a burden it was necessary for them to bear, v28. It involved discipline and self-denial. It was not however a great burden.
Holy Spirit. This was evidently the mind of the Holy Spirit, v28. In part the Holy Ghost reveals His will through such deliberations and Biblical discussion.
Conformity is described as ‘doing well’. It was the good and right thing to do!
Information communicated. The decision was communicated to all the churches under their care and direction. Cp v22-23. It was communicated verbally, preached and explained by Paul, Barnabas, Judas and Silas, v30-32. The standards of the church must be such as can be preached upon! It was also put into writing.
The outcome. The outcomes that followed the actions of the council, are very desirable. They are however, only produced by such a Biblical response to the error that had crept in.
Unity and love, v25.
Joy, v31.
Edification, v33-35. The ministry went on and increased, specially with the addition of Silas.
Peace, v33.