Acts 15:1-35
Disagreement, controversy and arguments are all part of relationships--whether that be in the context of a church or within our families. So how should we deal with and handle disagreements when they come up? Well, the specifics will depend on each of our unique situations, but we can learn a lot from what we see taking place in Acts 15:1-35.
One of the things that I noticed was that debate over the topic of disagreement was encouraged instead of avoided. So many times we try at all costs to side step any sort of confrontation. But the debate that took place here led to resolution and a good outcome for everyone involved.
So what did you learn from Acts 15:1-35? How might you draw on this passage the next time you're involved in some sort of disagreement or controversy? Tami W.
I know that I would rather avoid controversy than to deal with it but the Lord is showing me that I need to face problems head on. In order to grow in the the Lord I need to learn to trust and lean on Him.(Prov3:5) I need to let the Holy Spirit speek truth into my life like Peter did (Acts 15:6-11) and stand on Gods Word like James did (Acts 15:13-18).
Thanks for the Bible study Tami,
Blessings to you all
It is a good point that discussion on the disagreement was encouraged. I think people back then had a thicker skin as a general rule than we do today.
As to adding to requirements for salvation, I wonder how much I do this - probably more than I care to admit...so do I ask someone how judgmental I am....mabe tomorrow.
I agree with Jacob that my default setting is to avoid conflict, therefore accomodate, tolerate and accept other views so "we can all get along." But that isn't what Jesus did. He was strong in asserting the truth when he needed to be, and gentle in other situations. However, he always espoused the truth. No compromise.
Also, disagreement can serve as a doorway to sharing the gospel and spiritual truth, bringing light into a dark situation. If Christians withdraw from disagreement (eg. re abortion, salvation, homosexuality, etc.) the world will be a darker place. In fact, the sin in our world is increasing because Christians are mediorce, luke-warm in our walk with the Lord. Sinners will continue to sin; they are living up to their job description, but are Christians living up to theirs?
We have the Light. We are called to share it with gentleness and respect, while being obedient and trusting in the Lord.