Scripture: Acts 15:5
But some believers who belonged to the sect of the Pharisees stood up and said, “It is necessary for them to be circumcised and ordered to keep the law of Moses.”
Thought for the Day: In yesterday’s devotional, we looked at the disagreements and debating around whether Gentile Converts would be required to basically become Jewish before becoming a full-fledged follower of Jesus. This moment in time (50 AD) demonstrated what often happens when any organization is no longer guided by what are called the founders and the dreamers. Suddenly, there is no single person or group who can make all the decisions in regard to what is right and proper. For this diverse group gathered in Jerusalem, Jesus is no longer present to answer specific questions. None of the Gospels have been written at this time, and it’s mostly word of mouth that is keeping this movement alive. And as it grows and encounters new people, situations and questions, there are multiple opinions in regard to what Jesus would have thought. Look at this passage and notice what it says – “… some believers who belonged to the sect of the Pharisees…” This is one group of Jesus followers who were not only Jewish, but continued to be a part of a specific sect within Judaism. Those folks would have been bringing all kinds of passionate beliefs and opinions to the discussion, and they were just one group among many. You think you’ve attended some tense board meetings. I bet they were nothing like the Council in Jerusalem. If anything, this points out how easy it is to follow Jesus in theory and how challenging it is in our complicated day-to-day living.
Prayer: What a magnificent vision of grace you have provided, O Lord. Jesus taught us so much, yet where there are gaps – and at times, there appear to be many – help me to remain gracious even when I passionately disagree with a sister or brother in Christ. Amen.
THIS SATURDAY
From 8am – 1pm
THIS SUNDAY
Alumni Choir
Singing at the 11:00 Service
Concert in the Centrum
3:00pm
