Conflict Caused by Gospel Advance

Wherever there is forward movement of the gospel there will be conflict. We anticipate conflict with unbelief and false religious systems, but the story of the early church Jerusalem Council reminds us that sometimes there is conflict between our traditions and cultural norms, and what God is doing as He brings people to Himself. The deliberations of the Jerusalem Council in Acts 15 demonstrate a proper understanding of the balance between doctrinal absolutes and cultural norms. The lessons from Acts 15 are not just for missionaries on the front lines of ministry. They are for churches at home as we strive to be doctrinally faithful and culturally effective.