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Acts 15

KJ3 Literal Translation — Chapter 15 of 28

1 And some, coming down from Judea, were teaching the brothers, saying, If you are not circumcised in the custom of Moses, you are not able to be saved.

2 Therefore strife and not a little discussion with them occurring by Paul and Barnabas, they appointed Paul and Barnabas and some others of them to go up into Jerusalem to the apostles and elders concerning this question.

3 Therefore, indeed, being sent forward by the assembly they passed through Phoenicia and Samaria, relating in detail the conversion of the nations. And they caused great joy among all the brothers.

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Chapter Summary

1 Dissension arises touching circumcision. 39 Paul and Barnabas fall at strife, and depart asunder.

Key Greek Words

περιτέμνω circumcise G4059
σῴζω be saved G4982
χάρις grace G5485
πίστις faith G4102
νόμος the Law G3551
ἔθνος nations (Gentiles) G1484

People & Context

Peter

rises at the council to argue the nations are saved by grace, not by the yoke of the Law

James

gives the council's verdict, citing Amos, that Gentiles should not be burdened with circumcision

Paul

with Barnabas reports God's work among the nations; later splits with Barnabas over Mark

Barnabas

with Paul recounts the signs God did among the nations; takes Mark and sails to Cyprus

Silas

a leading brother and prophet chosen to carry the council's letter; later goes with Paul

Judas

called Barsabas, a leading brother and prophet sent with Silas to deliver the decree to Antioch

Timeline

The Jerusalem Council

A dispute arises over whether Gentile believers must be circumcised3132. The apostles and elders write a letter deciding not to burden them, save for abstaining from idols, blood, strangled things, and fornication33.

Acts 15:1-29

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