Acts: Clarifying The Gospel

2/24/2019

Think about the last time you were a part of a group who had to make a major decision together. What was that like for you? How did the discussion go? What type of information was brought into the process (factual, emotional, psychological, logistical, etc.). How did the outcome leave you feeling?

This was the situation in at the Jerusalem Council in Acts 15. Read Acts 15:1-5.
What were these men teaching?
Pastor Jeremy said that the fate of the Christian faith hung in the balance at this point in history. Do you agree or do you feel that this is an exaggeration?
He said that doctrine and theology are vitally important in the keeping of the faith. What do you think? Why?
You can chat about this one first if you want…. What is the gospel?
Some helps…
Romans 1:16
Ephesians 2:8-9
John 14:6
Mark 16:16
Romans 4:5
1 Corinthians 15:1-4

Watch this video from Tim Keller. Talk through how what he’s saying relates to what the men in Act 15:1-5 were teaching.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w0g-s4Qhtyk

There are 2 sides to how this conversation in relevant today. On the one hand, without a clear understanding of the gospel we can swing too far toward legalism as we see in this weeks passage. On the other hand, without being able to clearly articulate the gospel we are in danger of being too inclusive. What are some issues you’ve encountered this week that you need to speak into with the truth of the gospel and not a legalistic (moralistic) or overly inclusive reaction? How did you handle it? What were you unsure of?

What questions do you still have after thinking through this stuff?

*BONUS*
If you have time, discuss how circumcision relates to the gospel and communion. This is a very big question that will take some theological heavy lifting. But the thing to focus on is, how can we look at this and end up with solid hope?
If you want some help on this one, check out Timothy Brindle’s “Circumcision Song” and the lyrics.