Reading
SAA Notes
Peter and James accepted the Apostle Paul as an equal and defended both him and his apostleship to the Gentiles. They supported him by letter and by representatives.
SJA Notes
* Dear God, thank You for Your living word, given to us that we might know You better.
“And when they had read it, they rejoiced because of its encouragement.”
Sometimes we can let our scepticism override our belief and trust.
We need a healthy scepticism of human nature, God’s word is clear on that.
But that should never trump our believe in God’s love, His grace and mercy, His ability to effect real and lasting transformative change in people’s lives.
The church in Antioch received a letter from the leadership at the time, delivered by Paul and Barnabas and others.
This is the outworking of the previous chapters, where the church leadership clearly rebuked the false doctrine of adding more to God’s free gift of salvation through Jesus Christ alone.
This was a freeing thing, and encouragement to this burgeoning group of God’s people in a far-off city.
The letter also gave direction on what to abstain from. Don’t do these things.
And see the response.
This too was an encouragement to them!
Being told what to do brings about either real humility or angry pride.
God’s people at Antioch chose humility and they were encouraged!
Is this how we respond today?
* Mighty God,
Please help us trust in You and walk in obedience under Your will for us.
For You are our God, You and You alone. Creator. Sustainer. Life-Giver.
There is none like You!
Please humble us Lord, so that You would be magnified and lifted-up.
Amen.