Hi Pastor John,
I loved tonight – reading the Acts 15 council conversation. You could really see how Paul’s gospel would have been seen as such a deviation from the right gospel. I think it’s amazing how the scripture brings it out. But what really struck me tonight was how by itself, Paul’s gospel (seemingly) could not be believed and supported alone. It seems like an understanding of the Old Testament and Moses Law would have been crucial to Paul’s gospel. How could they understand the essence of the law and of what Paul was saying without that understanding?
We, at this time in history, have the benefit of having been exposed to Paul’s doctrine and just believed it without the same hindrances as they had. But sitting in the council tonight, I could see how unusual and what a deviation it was. Like others have said, it’s hard to be hard on those men, that didn’t believe it.
I love the Old Testament and I’m so glad you teach it.
Jenny