The salvation we enjoy first came to the Jews in Jerusalem and Judea. The Jews were expecting a Jewish Messiah to come and restore the kingdom to Israel on the promise of a new covenant: a new heart, forgiveness of sin, and the coming of the Holy Spirit. When they heard that Gentiles were also experiencing this salvation, some Jews took it upon themselves to travel to Antioch and demand that these Gentile believers also be circumcised if they were to be included in the people of God (v. 1).
Naturally, a great debate arose between Paul and Barnabas on one side and these Jews from Judea on the other. Since they were unable to resolve the debate, several representatives were chosen to go to the apostles in Jerusalem so that they might settle the debate (vv. 2-3). The report of all Paul and Barnabas had witnessed among the Gentiles on their missionary journey was received with great joy among the apostles (v. 4). Still, the Judaizers demanded that the law of Moses be added to what must be required for salvation. In essence, they promoted salvation by faith plus works. That’s a form of legalism.
In verses 19-21, we find the apostles’ response to the debated question of the time. Because salvation is by God’s grace alone through faith alone, the apostles refused to add any other demands to the gospel (v. 19).
Tips for Teaching This Week’s Session of The Gospel Project for Adults
Every week for Volume 4: From Captivity to the Wilderness, Ken Braddy, Lifeway’s director of Sunday School, will offer guidance to help leaders prepare to lead and teach each session of The Gospel Project for Adults.
Podcast (adultsleadertraining): Play in new window | Download
Tips for Teaching This Week’s Session of The Gospel Project for Students
Every week, student ministry leaders offer guidance to help leaders prepare to lead and teach each session of The Gospel Project for Students. Listen in as he shares:
- The main point of the session
- Any challenges and opportunities for additional discussion that may arise during this session
- Encouragements for leaders
Podcast (studentsleadertraining): Play in new window | Download
A Final Reminder
Don’t forget, you can find tools to help you prepare and lead the discussion in the Additional Resources for this volume. We hope these are a blessing to you as you walk through this session together.
*This week’s leader devotional is written by Juan Sanchez. It is adapted from the daily devotions for Unit 33, Session 1 from The Gospel Project for Adults’ Daily Discipleship Guide.
