Acts 15
In our readings this week, the Judaizers demand that the gentile converts live by the law of Moses. The church is gathered at the Jerusalem Council to take up this important question.
Monday, July 9 Read Acts 15:1-21. A group called the Judaizers are demanding that new Gentile converts be circumcised and follow the Law of Moses. What, does Peter say, saves us?
Tuesday, July 10 Read Acts 15:22-41. In their letter to the gentile believers, the apostles encourage them to “to abstain from food sacrificed to idols, from blood, from the meat of strangled animals and from sexual immorality”. Why, if the law has been fulfilled, do they give them these instructions?
Wednesday, July 11 After reviewing Acts 15, Read Matthew 5:17-48. Jesus said that he came not to abolish the law, but to fulfill it. How did he fulfill the law?
Thursday, July 12 After reviewing Acts 15, Read Isaiah 42:1-9. Jesus quoted this passage as referring to himself. See Luke 4:16-21. Was Jesus speaking metaphorically, literally or both?
Friday, July 13 After reviewing Acts 15, Read Galatians 3:1-28. Paul has strong words for the Galatians who have been deceived by the Judaizers back into the law. Why are Paul’s words so strong?
Saturday, July 14 After reviewing Acts 15, Read John 10:1-21. Jesus said that he came so that his sheep “may have life and have it to the full”. Is this a promise for us on earth, on heaven or both? If on earth, what exactly is Jesus promising?
Bethel Lutheran Church, St. Paul, MN – bethelstpaul.com