Perhaps we should strive to settle issues more like early Christians did.
Monday, August 16, 2021
By John Barksdale, Journey Small Group Leader
Acts 15:1-21
Scripture
“We believe it is through the grace of our Lord Jesus that we are saved just as they are.” — Acts 15: 11
Observation
Forcing the gentiles to follow the law of Moses would have split the church. If those that insisted on everyone being circumcised would have won, then the church would have become just another Jewish sect.
Application
The early Christians settled the issue by…1. Sharp dispute (15:2). 2. Debate (15:2). 3. Council or conference (15:6). 4. Laid the issue alongside the Gospel (15:10-11). Perhaps this is how I should settle issues?
Prayer
“Lord please help me to be humble enough to settle my differences in a Christ-like way. Help me to turn the other cheek and follow your golden rule. Help me to have your good news so embedded into my heart that I can filter out issues through it. Amen.”
Now You Try
Acts 15:22-41
Scripture
Get to a place where you can focus and read the daily Scripture passage several times. Take time to read and allow God to speak to you. Write down the one or two verses that stick out. Even consider rewriting the verse(s) in your own words.
Observation
Make a basic observation about the scripture you just read. What stood out? Was something repeated? What is the author trying to communicate? What does the Scripture passage teach you about God? What does it teach you about humanity?
Application
Ask, “What does this verse(s) mean for my life?” How might this verse affect your heart — how you feel? How does this verse challenge your thinking? How does it affect your will, asking, “What changes do I need to make in my life as a result of this passage of Scripture?”
Prayer
Write out a prayer to God. Scripture is God speaking to you, take this moment to speak back. Take a moment to say, “Thank you,” confess to Him what needs to change, or ask for something that is on your heart.