Acts 15:7

“And when there had been much disputing, Peter rose up, and said unto them, Men and brethren, ye know how that a good while ago God made choice among us, that the Gentiles by my mouth should hear the word of the gospel, and believe.”

Context: Acts 15 records the events of the Jerusalem Council, which took place in the early days of the Christian church. The Council was convened to address a significant question concerning the inclusion of Gentiles (non-Jews) into the Christian faith. Some Jewish believers insisted that Gentiles needed to be circumcised and follow the Law of Moses to be saved. This debate led to much disputing among the apostles and elders.

Peter’s Role: In Acts 15:7, Peter takes a prominent role in the discussion. He acknowledges the past decision by God to use him as the instrument to bring the message of the gospel to the Gentiles. Peter reminds the assembly of his experience with Cornelius, a Roman centurion, and his household, whom God had already accepted as believers without requiring them to follow the Law of Moses (Acts 10).

God’s Choice: Peter emphasizes that God made a clear choice to include the Gentiles in His plan of salvation. It was not by human effort or debate that the Gentiles were accepted but by the divine initiative and will of God. This choice demonstrated God’s grace and opened the door for the Gentiles to receive the gospel and believe in Jesus Christ as their Savior.

Hearing and Believing: Peter emphasizes that the purpose of preaching the gospel to the Gentiles was for them to “hear the word of the gospel, and believe.” The gospel message is central to the Christian faith, as it is through hearing and believing in the good news of Jesus’ death and resurrection that people receive salvation. Peter affirms that the Gentiles, like the Jewish believers, are saved by faith in Jesus Christ, not by works of the Law.

Unity and Inclusion: Peter’s words in Acts 15:7 contribute to the resolution of the dispute at the Jerusalem Council. His testimony highlights the inclusivity of the gospel, affirming that Gentiles are welcomed into the Christian faith as equal recipients of God’s grace. This decision paved the way for the growth of the early church among the Gentiles, breaking down barriers between Jewish and Gentile believers.