Never Assume
Posted May 6, 2008
Twenty years into the life of the church and they almost lose the Gospel. Just two decades after Jesus ascension, the church comes near destruction. How did it happen?
Some Jewish believers come up from Judea to Antioch to correct the "error" of free grace, to teach the necessity of supplementing the work of Christ. A controversy stirs. Some of the leaders capsize -- even Peter and Barnabas. Two of the pillars of the church seem to give in to the notion that Moses must be obeyed and circumcision must be performed. What are they to do?
A Council meets in Jerusalem and a great debate takes place. Peter reminds them all of the conversion of an uncircumcised man, Cornelius by name. Paul and Barnabas tell of the works of God through the Gospel preached to the Gentiles. James points out that God had always purposed to bring Gentiles into the people of God -- as Gentiles. The Gospel is upheld. As a result, the Council publishes their unanimous findings and the Gentile churches are encouraged.
But remember, with all but one of the 12 Apostles present on earth, the Gospel is challenged from within. One of the Apostles withdraws from the Gentiles in table fellowship. One of the leaders of the church joins him. How can this be? isn't it enough to have the Gospel written down clearly on a doctrinal statement? Won't solid theological conviction protect them?
No, the Gospel must be cherished and preserved, a day and a month and a year at a time. When it comes to holding firm the Gospel, our hearts are slippery. We are deeply self reliant. We are profoundly self-commending. The Gospel wars against our pride. By grace alone the Gospel is kept.
