Acts 15:5

But some believers from the party of the Pharisees stood up and declared, "The Gentiles must be circumcised and required to obey the law of Moses."

Study Bible

But some believers from the party of the Pharisees
This phrase introduces a group within the early Christian community who were originally from the Pharisaic tradition. The Pharisees were a Jewish sect known for their strict adherence to the Law of Moses and oral traditions. The Greek word for "believers" here is "πιστεύσαντες" (pisteusantes), indicating those who have come to faith in Christ. This highlights the diversity within the early church, where even those from a background of rigorous law observance were now followers of Jesus. Historically, the Pharisees were influential in Jewish society, and their conversion to Christianity signifies the powerful impact of the Gospel across different societal segments.

stood up and declared
The act of standing up and declaring suggests a formal and public assertion. The Greek word "ἀνέστησαν" (anestēsan) implies rising to make a significant statement. This reflects the seriousness with which these believers approached the issue at hand. In the context of the early church, such declarations were part of the communal decision-making process, emphasizing the importance of dialogue and discernment in resolving doctrinal disputes.

The Gentiles must be circumcised
Circumcision was a sign of the covenant between God and Abraham, as described in Genesis 17. The Greek word "περιτέμνεσθαι" (peritemnesthai) refers to this physical act, which was a central identity marker for the Jewish people. The insistence on circumcision for Gentile converts highlights the tension between maintaining Jewish identity and embracing the new covenant in Christ. This reflects a broader struggle within the early church to define the relationship between Jewish traditions and the inclusive message of the Gospel.

and required to obey the Law of Moses
The phrase "required to obey" translates the Greek "παραγγέλλειν" (parangellein), meaning to command or instruct. The "Law of Moses" refers to the Torah, the first five books of the Old Testament, which contain the commandments and regulations given to Israel. This requirement underscores the challenge faced by the early church in integrating Gentile believers. The historical context reveals a community grappling with how to honor their Jewish heritage while embracing the transformative work of Christ, who fulfilled the law (Matthew 5:17).

Persons / Places / Events

1. Believers from the Party of the Pharisees
These were Jewish Christians who had previously been Pharisees. They were zealous for the Law and believed that Gentile converts should adhere to Jewish customs, including circumcision.

2. Gentiles
Non-Jewish individuals who were coming to faith in Jesus Christ. The early church was grappling with how to integrate these believers into a community that had been predominantly Jewish.

3. Circumcision
A physical sign of the covenant between God and Abraham's descendants, as outlined in the Old Testament. It was a significant cultural and religious practice for Jews.

4. The Law of Moses
Refers to the commandments and regulations given to the Israelites in the first five books of the Old Testament. It was central to Jewish identity and religious practice.

5. Jerusalem Council
The meeting of apostles and elders in Jerusalem to discuss and resolve the issue of whether Gentile converts should be required to follow Jewish law, including circumcision.

Teaching Points

Understanding the Role of the Law
The Law of Moses was given to guide the Israelites and set them apart as God's people. However, with the coming of Christ, the focus shifted from the Law to faith in Jesus as the means of salvation.

Unity in Diversity
The early church faced challenges in integrating diverse groups. Today, we are called to embrace diversity within the body of Christ, recognizing that our unity is found in Him, not in cultural or traditional practices.

The Sufficiency of Faith in Christ
Salvation is through faith in Jesus Christ alone, not through adherence to the Law or any other works. This truth should guide our understanding of what it means to be a follower of Christ.

Cultural Sensitivity and the Gospel
While the gospel transcends culture, we must be sensitive to cultural backgrounds and practices, ensuring that we do not impose unnecessary burdens on others in their journey of faith.

Resolving Doctrinal Disputes
The Jerusalem Council serves as a model for addressing doctrinal issues within the church. It emphasizes the importance of seeking guidance from Scripture, the Holy Spirit, and the collective wisdom of church leaders.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the requirement of circumcision for Gentile believers reflect the tension between law and grace in the early church?

2. In what ways can we apply the principle of unity in diversity within our own church communities today?

3. How does understanding the role of the Law in the Old Testament help us appreciate the work of Christ in the New Testament?

4. What are some modern-day "requirements" that we might impose on others that could hinder their faith journey, and how can we address these?

5. How can the process and outcome of the Jerusalem Council guide us in resolving conflicts or disagreements within our own faith communities?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 17
This chapter describes the institution of circumcision as a sign of the covenant between God and Abraham, providing background on why it was so important to Jewish believers.

Galatians 5
Paul addresses the issue of circumcision and the Law, emphasizing that faith in Christ, not adherence to the Law, is what justifies believers.

Ephesians 2
Paul speaks about the unity of Jews and Gentiles in Christ, breaking down the "dividing wall of hostility" and creating one new humanity.

Romans 4
Paul discusses Abraham's faith being credited as righteousness before he was circumcised, highlighting faith over law.