When Opinions Collide – When things are not black or white
Text: Acts 15:1-35
A Difference of Opinion
The Situation:
Gentiles were being saved
The Concern:
Some Jewish believers felt the Gentiles should be circumcised
The Result:
Dissention and a great debate
The Response:
Having church leaders and elders consider the issue
The Deliberation of Leaders
The matter was heard
Both sides expressed their views
Peter’s wise counsel:
An appeal to a hierarchy of importance
1. Core Doctrines and Essential Spiritual Matters
2. Important Matters for Maintaining Fellowship
3. Incidental Matters of Opinion
A Judgment Call
James spoke as the leader of the church in Jerusalem
An appeal to scripture
An appeal to what should be left to God
An understanding of God’s sovereignty and timing
A Leadership Decision
Address the concern
Recommended practices
Provide encouragement
The Beneficial Result
The church accepted the judgment of the leaders
A message was sent to the Gentile believers in Antioch
Acknowledge that others were stirring things up
Express the benefit of unity
Focus on the essentials
The message was delivered to Antioch
The church at Antioch rejoiced and were encouraged
The church had peace
The ministry continued to advance
When Opinions Collide
1. If the matter is essential to faith and salvation:
Never compromise on the doctrines of the Christian faith
2. If the issue is detrimental or divisive to the fellowship:
Cooperate with those who agree on the essentials
Maintain close fellowship with like-minded believers
3. If the matter does not impact the mission of the church:
Do not permit division over the matter nor give it prominence
Encourage forbearance, grace and love
The role of leaders when there is a difference of opinion
within the church:
To uphold and teach the essentials of the faith.
To determine whether a matter is essential, important or minor.
To maintain the peace and unity of the church.