Be the Change

The gospel was being preached to the gentiles. The Jews were in covenant with God so there were rules and regulations they had to follow through the law. The gentiles received salvation through Jesus Christ, the rules of the law did not pertain to them. They were free from the law, because of the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ.

The above scripture shows the arguments that were taking place between the apostles and leaders of the synagogue regarding the Gentiles following the law. Peter was clear on this, the Gentiles were not circumcised nor were they followers of the Lord when they received Jesus as Lord and Saviour and were baptized with the Holy Spirit. He took a stand to say to the leaders who were insisting that these Gentiles be circumcised, to say to them, they could not place such a burden on the Gentiles. They themselves as Jews were finding it difficult to follow the Law, so why would they put a yoke on these new believers to follow the law by being circumcised.

Peter, Paul and Barnabas had to make a call regarding this issue as many Gentiles were being saved. They were prepared to be the change that was needed, even though it would mean them offending the leaders of the synagogue. They were clear about what should be done in the future so that this matter would not create a problem for new believers. We were not saved by the law, but under grace. Grace is unmerited favour. Every believer is justified just as if they have never sinned. We have access to the father and we are not bound by the law and 10 commandments. We are saved by grace. It was a drastic change from those believing in the law, but these apostles were ready to stand and make a much, needed change.

We too may be called upon to be an example and be the change our world needs.