Sermon On the Net

 

 

 

BONDAGE

 

ACTS 15: Some men came down from Judea and were teaching the brothers that circumcision was necessary for salvation. Paul and Barnabas were sent to Jerusalem to try to rectify the situation and on the way they were meeting   people and telling them that the Gentiles were being converted. When they arrived in Jerusalem they were greeted by the brothers and were told by members of the Pharisees that the Gentiles must be circumcised, therefore obeying the Law of Moses. Peter told them that God made no distinction among men and He gave the Holy Spirit to the Gentiles. He emphasized that salvation was through God’s grace and not works or symbolism. James also supported Peter’s testimony and the fact that the prophets were in agreement. James told them that they should not make it difficult for the Gentile believers. He suggested they write a letter to the Gentiles and have some of their own people accompany Paul and Barnabas to take the letter to them.

 

They did this and also suggested to the Gentiles that they should refrain from eating blood and meat with blood in it or food sacrificed to idols. In addition they told them to refrain from sexual misconduct. The brothers were glad to hear from Paul and were encouraged with the content of the letter. After spending some time there they left for other cities to continue spreading the Good News.

 

What we learn from this chapter is how quickly some want to change the simple act of salvation as Jesus has prescribed it. There are many religions today that attempt to keep its members in bondage by creating requirements for salvation that do not exist in the Bible. Verse 5 illustrates the doctrine of the Pharisees and their convoluted prescription for salvation; totally contrary to the teachings of Jesus; “The Gentiles must be circumcised and required to obey the law of Moses.” Most, if not all religions or cults today decree some form of teaching, also contrary to the Bible. This is why it is so critical for everyone to read the Bible and discover, for themselves, the truth and simple message of salvation. We will all be judged by the content of the Bible; this is a fact. If you believe this then you should read God’s word. It’s informative, interesting, and easy to read. I would suggest as a starting point the gospel of John for those who have never experienced the fruit of the Bible. Open the Book with a genuine heart to learn and the Holy Spirit will do the rest. Try it, you might like it.