The great influx of Gentile believers was causing some rifts in the new church. Most notably, some Jewish Christians wanted the Gentile Christians to follow the Jewish laws and customs, including be circumcised. But Paul and Barnabas told these men that salvation is based only on faith in Christ and His work on the cross, not the Law or works. As you can guess, an argument ensued.
The Jewish Christians didn’t want to lose their traditions or their special standing with God. But He clearly said that salvation is in Christ alone. The bottom line of this issue is that the Jewish Christians were trying to compromise the truth of God’s Word. They wanted to add works to salvation. It’s a good thing Paul and Barnabas stepped in!
Even today, Satan uses internal controversies to try to destroy Christ’s church. As believers, we must watch out for Satan dividing the church with false doctrines. We will recognize false doctrines and know how to dispel them when we stand firm on the truth of the Scripture.
How do I handle church divisions? Am I a part of the problem or a part of the solution? Do I pray for unity in the church? Do I know the truth of the Scripture?
The early church worked through this divisive issue to bring unity to believers and to show that they are God’s children (John 13:35). Will we commit to doing the same today?