Read the Modern Pastor’s Version

The apostles and elders gathered in Jerusalem to address a growing controversy among believers from Judea who were teaching that Gentile converts needed to be circumcised according to Jewish law. This teaching was causing dissension with Paul and Barnabas, who had been preaching to Gentiles without requiring them to become Jews.

The church in Antioch sent Paul and Barnabas, along with some other companions, to Jerusalem to discuss this matter with the apostles and elders. They were received warmly by the church and its leaders when they arrived in Jerusalem.

However, not everyone agreed on how to handle Gentile converts. Some Pharisees who had become believers believed that Gentiles needed to be circumcised and follow Jewish law in order to be saved. The apostles and elders considered this issue at length.

Peter stood up and addressed the gathering, saying that God had made it clear through his work among the Gentiles that he accepted them as equal partners in the faith. Peter reminded everyone that God gave the Holy Spirit to the Gentiles just like he did to Jews, cleansing their hearts by faith.

James spoke next, citing the prophets who said that God would gather a people for himself from the nations. He noted that this was happening now through the work of Paul and Barnabas among the Gentiles. James concluded that the apostles and elders should not require Gentile converts to follow Jewish law, but rather instruct them to avoid certain practices that were contrary to their faith.

The decision was made to send a letter to the Gentile believers in Antioch, Syria, and Cilicia with instructions on what they should avoid. The letter instructed them to abstain from idol sacrifices, immorality, consuming animals that had been strangled, and blood. Paul and Barnabas were sent back to Antioch along with two other leaders, Judas and Silas, who carried the letter.

The letter was read in public, and it brought great joy and encouragement to the believers. Judas and Silas exhorted the brothers to continue following their faith, confirming them in their newfound commitment.

After a while, Paul and Barnabas continued on their journey, teaching and preaching the word of the Lord. Later, they decided to revisit the churches where they had previously preached, but this time with new companions. Paul wanted to take Silas with him, but Barnabas preferred to bring John Mark along instead.

The disagreement between Paul and Barnabas was so sharp that they parted ways. Paul chose Silas as his companion and set out for Syria and Cilicia, where he confirmed the churches in their faith.