Acts 15:12-29 Questions for Discussion and Reflection

Read Acts 15:6-29, the account of the Jerusalem Council. Who was present at this council? (15:6) What role did each of the following attendees fulfill?

Peter (15:7-10)—

Barnabas and Paul (15:12)—

James (15:13-21)—

the apostles and elders as a whole (15:22-29)—

The letter sent from the elders and apostles to the Antioch church concluded, “For it was the Holy Spirit’s decision—and ours—to put no greater burden on you than these necessary things…” (Acts 15:28). The NIV reads, “It seemed good to us and to the Holy Spirit…” What relationship between unity in the church and the Holy Spirit is observed in the following Scriptures?

Matthew 18:18-20—

Acts 10:45-47—

1 Corinthians 12:4-11, 13—

Ephesians 2:18-22—

What would it look like in your ministry and family relationships to pursue decisions that have as their goal “it seemed good to us and to the Holy Spirit”? How is the Holy Spirit leading you to apply this study to your life?