Dealing with Dissension
Acts 15:1-35
June 8, 1997
I. The issue: What constitutes true salvation?
Quote Galatians 2:1-16
1. It affects the souls of men
2. It affects the message of the church
3. It affects, in this case, the crossing of cultural barriers
4. It affects the source of authority (these men came from Judea and began to teach without
authority)
1. Contention over the issue v. 2
2. Debate and dialogue ensued v. 2
3. The church sought resolution by appealing to God-ordained authority v. 2
a. The Word
b. Those who are recognized as elders
c. Another authoritative body - association, council
4. The church authorized delegates (sent away - helped, arranged, supplied money, prayer etc.
5. The issue was left with the authorities
a. Heard report
b. Listened to the issue from both sides (4-5), here it was amplified: circumcision and Law
c. Council engaged
1. Submission to God-given authority and a pure desire for God's will.
There was no self-seeking, but earnest desire for God's mind.
2. An evaluation of the issue in light of God's Word v. 7-9
a. Look at the ways of God - appoint Peter for the Gentiles
b. Look at the purpose of God - that the Gentiles might hear the gospel and believe
c. Look at the approval of God - gave them the Holy Spirit in same way as Jews
d. Look at the favor of God - He made no distinctions, cleansed Jews and Gentiles by faith
e. Look at the faithfulness of God - both by faith
3. A searching question that demands an answer v. 10
4. A concluding summary statement v. 11
a. Shows that the issue goes both ways: Peter didn't want Jews to be saddled with this yoke
either
b. Points back to grace so that God gets all the glory and man has no claim to merit
5. A congregation that bows before the truth of God v. 12
6. Leaders that appeal to the Word of God v. 13-19
1. Concessions for the purpose of not creating unnecessary offense v. 20-21
2. Approved by the leaders and congregation, "seemed good" in a t. t. for voting or passing a
measure in the assembly
3. The issue and resolution clearly stated and passed along to all concerned v. 23-29
4. Representatives explained the resolution v. 27, 30
5. The church rejoices v. 31
Applications:
1. Issues of controversy arise
2. We must maintain a right spirit, clear heads, and humility in seeking resolutions
3. Appeal to authority
a. The Word
b. Elders
c. Council
4. Evaluate in light of
a. Biblical precedent
b. The character and ways of God
c. That which gives God the glory
5. State clearly the resolutions
6. Present to the whole body for approval
7. Proclaim, rejoice, preach the Word v. 32
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