Easter Season · Sixth Sunday of Easter · Year C
Acts 15:1-2, 22-29
The Jerusalem Council's Decision
May 21, 2028

Overview & Insights
"It has seemed good to the Holy Spirit and to us to impose on you no further burden than these essentials." (Acts 15:28)
When a dispute arises over whether Gentile converts must be circumcised, the church at Antioch sends Paul and Barnabas to Jerusalem, where the apostles and elders decide against imposing the Mosaic law on Gentile believers. They send Judas and Silas back to Antioch with a letter announcing the decision, and the church rejoices at the encouraging news.
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Commentary
Acts 15 Commentary Precept Austin
Compiles commentary on the Jerusalem Council's debate and decision.
Acts 15 Commentary: The Jerusalem Council Enduring Word · David Guzik
Guzik traces the council's decision to require no further burden of Gentile believers.
Acts 15:1 Commentaries BibleHub
Classic commentators on the circumcision controversy that prompts the council.
Acts 15 StudyLight
Gill's Exposition offers detailed notes on the council's deliberation and letter.
Background & Word Study
Acts 15:1 Interlinear BibleHub
Shows the Greek of the circumcision dispute that opens the chapter.
Acts Enter the Bible
Luther Seminary background on Acts' account of the early church's expansion to the Gentiles.
Read Scripture: Acts BibleProject
An animated overview situates the Jerusalem Council within Acts' account of the gospel's expansion to the nations.
The Church Fathers
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