Dr. Larry Martens at #usmbstudyconf "How the New Testament Church Dealt with Controversy"

There will always be issues that threaten our unity.

Acts 15
  • Clear theological issues were at stake. (15:1)
  • There was a willingness to engage in a difficult conversation. 
  • They recognized that God was doing something new. (Vs. 7-11)
  • They were guided by clear biblical understandings. 
    • “We can seriously misunderstand God’s activities in the past and present if we do not carefully examine the Scriptures.” (Geddert)
  • They practiced both grace and truth. (Vs. 19)
  • They affirmed core beliefs and allowed for diversity of expression.
    • “As long as the gospel is not compromised, diversity of expression can be tolerated.” (Darrell Bock, Acts, pg. 508)
  • They arrived at a mutually agreeable solution.
    • “How do we distinguish between the differences which make a difference, and the differences which don’t make a difference?”(N.T. Wright)
    • The text said it seemed good to the Holy Spirit and us not the Holy Spirit and me. (Vs. 28)


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