38—Forty Days with James: James the Peacemaker

<p>For additional notes and resources check out Douglas’ <a href="https://www.douglasjacoby.com/38-forty-days-with-james-james-the-peacemaker/" target="_blank"><strong>website.</strong></a></p><p><strong>Acts 15</strong></p><ul><li>Last time: James was a prophet (fiery hot). But he was also a peacemaker.</li><li>The Jew-Gentile Controversy (Acts 15:1, 5) was the most contentious issue in the 1st century.<ul><li>The Judaizers held that to be truly spiritual—or (in this case) even to be saved—a man must be circumcised. Circumcision entailed following the terms of the old covenant / the Law of Moses.</li><li>The apostles taught otherwise.</li></ul></li><li>The Council of Jerusalem (49 AD) focused on this serious issue.<ul><li>The apostles and elders discussed the matter. Probably Galatians was written in 48, before the Council—otherwise it would be odd that Paul didn't appeal to the decision made in Jerusalem.</li><li>Peter takes a stand.</li><li>Paul and Barnabas provide evidence.</li><li>James guides the meeting towards a constructive conclusion. He frames the issue in light of scripture, and then suggests that a letter, personally delivered by respected leaders, is the best practical measure. His suggestion is followed.</li></ul></li><li>The result is edifying.</li><li>It is clear from passages like this that James was a most respected leader in the Jerusalem church.</li></ul><p>For you and me:</p><ol><li> <ol><li>Aim to become good listeners, carefully hearing and evaluating both sides of any issue.</li><li>Think theologically—scripturally—about spiritual issues and also about our world.</li><li>Let's craft practical solutions to problems, and entrust them to others. Don’t dominate.</li><li>Be a team player.</li><li>Remember Jesus’ words, Blessed are the peacemakers… (Matt 5:9).</li></ol></li></ol><p><br /><i>Next: Jamesthe Martyr</i></p><img src="https://www.douglasjacoby.com/wp-content/uploads/Jas-300x169.jpg" alt="" />