Acts 15:6

Acts 15:6 (KJV) says: And the apostles and elders came together for to consider of this matter.

Context:Acts 15 describes a crucial event in the early Christian Church known as the Council of Jerusalem. A debate arose among the believers regarding whether Gentile converts needed to be circumcised and follow the law of Moses in order to be saved. This matter was of great significance because it touched upon the relationship between the Jewish and Gentile believers and the requirements for salvation.

Here are some key points and lessons we can derive from Acts 15:6:

Unity in Seeking God’s Will:The verse emphasizes that the apostles and elders came together to consider the matter. This demonstrates the importance of seeking unity and working together as a body of believers when addressing significant issues within the Church. They recognized the need to gather and deliberate, seeking God’s guidance collectively rather than making individual decisions.

Wise Counsel:The apostles and elders represented the leadership of the early Church. Their coming together indicates the significance they placed on seeking godly wisdom and guidance before making important decisions. This serves as a reminder for us to seek wise counsel from experienced and mature believers when facing challenging situations or decisions within our own lives or the Church community.

Addressing Doctrinal Disputes:The matter under consideration at the Council of Jerusalem was a doctrinal dispute concerning salvation for Gentile converts. This passage reminds us that doctrinal issues within the Church should be approached with careful study, prayer, and open dialogue. The early Church leaders recognized the need to address this dispute and seek clarity based on Scripture and the leading of the Holy Spirit.

The Importance of Deliberation:The phrase “to consider of this matter” highlights the importance of deliberate thought and discussion. The leaders didn’t rush to a hasty conclusion but took the time to listen to different perspectives, examine Scripture, and engage in thoughtful debate. This example encourages us to approach significant decisions with similar care and discernment.

Seeking God’s Will:Ultimately, the purpose of the apostles and elders coming together was to discern God’s will concerning the matter at hand. They recognized the need to align their decision with God’s plan and guidance. This teaches us the importance of seeking God’s will and relying on His wisdom through prayer, study of His Word, and seeking the guidance of the Holy Spirit in all matters, both personal and communal.