Welcome to our new project, the Daily Bible Devotional. The goal is to help you understand and apply

scripture as you go through a New Testament Bible read five days a week, Monday through Friday,

as we move from Matthew straight through to Revelation. In under four minutes each morning, we will recap the chapter,

make some application, present thought questions for the day, and offer a prayer together.

I'm excited about exploring God's word with you, so let's get started.

Good morning. It's wonderful to be with you today. We continue through this incredible book of Acts.

Today we are in chapter 15. It begins with a quote from the text,

Unless you are circumcised, according to the custom of Moses, you cannot be saved.

These words from Jewish believers create significant dissension among the brethren.

Paul and Barnabas traveled to Jerusalem to discuss the issue with the apostles and elders there.

Peter announces that salvation comes through faith and recounts how God bestowed the Holy Spirit upon Cornelius.

Paul and Barnabas contribute by sharing stories of the salvation of Gentiles during their recent

journey. In no case was circumcision required for salvation. James quotes the Old Testament to

indicate God's plan to include Gentiles. Everyone involved agrees that no such burden should be placed upon new believers.

A letter is written and sent to the church in Antioch.

Afterwards, Paul and Barnabas have a disagreement and embark upon missionary journeys separately.

It's an interesting chapter about unity and major issues and also some disunity

among two friends. Even among believers, conflicts can rise. Often, people impose their beliefs on

others leading to division. The key to resolution is communication and a willingness to seek

the workings and word of God.

With open hearts, the truth about salvation can be discovered and shared.

God could have revealed that circumcision was unnecessary.

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