Acts 15:6 – “The apostles and elders met to consider this question.”

Extended Explanation

This verse describes the moment when the church leaders in Jerusalem gathered to discuss one of the most important theological debates in Christian history—Do Gentiles need to follow the Law of Moses to be saved?

Paul and Barnabas had arrived in Jerusalem to settle this issue because some Jewish believers (specifically those from the Pharisee group) were insisting that Gentiles must be circumcised and obey the Law (Acts 15:5). This was a major issue because it wasn’t just about religious customs—it was about the gospel itself.

Would salvation be by faith in Jesus alone, or would it also require keeping the Jewish law? If circumcision and the Law were necessary, then the message of grace was being undermined. If salvation was by grace through faith alone, then the Jewish laws were no longer necessary for righteousness.

To settle the matter, the apostles and elders met together to consider it carefully. This verse reminds us that the early church didn’t make decisions lightly. They gathered, discussed, and sought God’s wisdom in making choices that would shape the future of Christianity.

Historical Context

At this point in church history, Christianity was still very much connected to Judaism. The first believers were Jews, and many of them continued to follow the Law of Moses, including circumcision, dietary laws, and Sabbath observance.

However, the gospel had spread beyond the Jewish world. Gentiles were coming to faith in large numbers, but they did not follow Jewish customs. The big question was: Should these Gentile believers be required to obey Jewish laws, or was faith in Jesus enough?

This debate was not just about circumcision—it was about whether Christianity would remain a branch of Judaism or stand as a faith based solely on the work of Christ.

By gathering the apostles and elders, the church was following a wise and orderly approach to handling disagreements. They understood that unity in truth was essential and that the decision they made would affect all future believers.

Theological Implications

1. Seeking Wisdom in Leadership – The apostles and elders did not make quick, emotional decisions. Instead, they discussed and prayed before deciding. This teaches us the importance of wise, godly leadership in guiding the church.
2. The Gospel of Grace at Stake – The outcome of this discussion would determine whether salvation was truly by grace alone or whether believers needed to follow Jewish customs. This was a defining moment for the church.
3. God’s Guidance in Church Decisions – The apostles did not rely on human opinions alone; they sought God’s wisdom. This reminds us that biblical decisions should always be based on God’s truth, not human tradition.
4. Unity in the Church – Instead of allowing division, the church leaders came together to find common ground in truth. They recognized that unity should be based on God’s will, not cultural traditions.

Literary Analysis

Acts 15:6 is short but significant. It is a transition verse that sets the stage for the Jerusalem Council, where Peter, Paul, Barnabas, and James would all give their input.

• “The apostles and elders met” – This phrase emphasizes that church leadership played a key role in doctrinal decisions.
• “To consider this question” – This suggests that the matter was complex and required thoughtful discussion. The word “consider” implies careful examination, not a rushed or emotional decision.

Luke, the author of Acts, highlights this meeting to show that the early church was not chaotic or divided, but rather orderly and Spirit-led in handling theological challenges.

Biblical Cross-References

• Proverbs 11:14 – “For lack of guidance a nation falls, but victory is won through many advisers.” (The importance of seeking godly counsel.)
• Matthew 18:20 – “For where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them.” (Jesus’ promise to be with those who seek His will together.)
• Acts 1:14 – The apostles prayed together for wisdom before making major decisions.
• James 1:5 – “If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you.” (God provides wisdom for those who seek it.)

What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian

1. We Should Seek God’s Wisdom in Decisions – The early church leaders didn’t make rash decisions. They sought wise counsel and God’s guidance. We should do the same when facing important choices.
2. The Church Should Settle Disputes with Truth and Grace – Disagreements will happen in the church, but we should handle them with discussion, prayer, and a focus on God’s Word, just like the apostles did.
3. Our Faith is Based on God’s Truth, Not Tradition – Some people still try to add extra requirements to salvation, just as the Pharisee believers did. This verse reminds us to always return to the question: What does God say?
4. Unity in Christ Is More Important Than Cultural Differences – The early church had to wrestle with different backgrounds (Jewish and Gentile). Today, we must remember that our unity comes from Christ, not from customs or traditions.

How This Verse Relates to a Loving God

God is not a God of confusion (1 Corinthians 14:33). Instead of allowing division and uncertainty, He led the apostles to gather, discuss, and seek the truth. This shows His love for His church—He wants believers to be united in truth rather than divided by opinions.

God’s love is also seen in how He makes His truth clear. The fact that the apostles met to clarify the gospel shows that God does not want people to struggle with doubt. He lovingly guides His people into truth and freedom.

How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ

Jesus had already made it clear that He alone is the way to salvation (John 14:6). This council was essentially a discussion about whether Jesus’ sacrifice was enough or whether people needed something extra (like circumcision) to be saved.

The apostles ultimately affirmed what Jesus had already taught:

• Faith in Christ is the only requirement for salvation (John 3:16).
• Jesus fulfilled the Law, making old rituals unnecessary (Matthew 5:17).
• Jesus prayed for unity among His followers (John 17:20-21).

The church was not debating whether Jesus was the Savior. They were debating whether He was enough. This verse sets up the decision that would confirm: Yes, Jesus alone is enough.

Questions for Reflection and Discussion

1. When I face difficult decisions, do I take time to seek godly wisdom, or do I rush into choices?
2. How can I help promote unity in the church while still standing firm on biblical truth?
3. Am I holding onto any traditions that might make it harder for others to come to Christ?
4. How can I respond to disagreements in a way that honors God and builds up His church?
5. What does this passage teach me about trusting Jesus alone for salvation?

Acts 15:6 teaches us that important decisions should be made with wisdom, prayer, and godly leadership. It also reminds us that the gospel is simple: Faith in Jesus is enough. Let’s hold onto that truth and live in the freedom of His grace!