The David Spoon Experience 1-11-24 part 2

1) We find ourselves in the Book of Acts, chapter 21, verse 29, where Paul is in a challenging situation. James and the church elders are seeking his assistance to alleviate what seems to be significant frustration among the Hebrew Christians. They weren’t discouraging belief in Jesus but accusing Paul of disregarding the Old Testament, which was not Paul’s message. Thus, James and the elders are attempting to devise a solution to this tension.

2) The proposed solution is for Paul and his companions to adhere to Old Testament practices, demonstrating their respect for it. This was not for salvation purposes but rather to acknowledge the Old Testament’s influence on New Testament believers.

3) This is reflected in Paul’s statement, “I become all things to all men that I may win some.” The elders assert there was no need to do anything special for the Gentile believers; the letter previously written to them was sufficient. They are asking Paul to smooth over the rough edges with the Hebrew believers.

4) While Paul could have refused, he chose to assist and agreed to their request, undergoing the purification rituals. This was not for his salvation but to foster peace among the brethren. Sometimes, we engage in certain activities to maintain the peace and unity established through the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. Even if these activities deviate from our typical behavior, it’s acceptable for the brethren’s sake.

5) However, since God is in control, not the elders or anyone else, while Paul was in the temple, he was falsely accused. People had thought they had seen Paul with Gentiles earlier and then in the temple where Gentiles were not permitted. They assumed, incorrectly, that Paul had brought the Gentiles into the temple. This false assumption caused an uproar, a commotion based on a lie against Christians. This was true then, and it remains true today.