The inclusion of Gentiles into the early Church was a pivotal moment, resolved through a series of events: Peter’s encounter with Cornelius, the Jerusalem Council, and Paul’s teachings in Galatians. These passages offer a solution for Gentile believers to be fully accepted by God, based on faith in Christ, not adherence to Jewish law.
Breaking Barriers: Peter and Cornelius (Acts 10)
Peter’s encounter with Cornelius, a Roman centurion, shattered the traditional Jewish understanding of who could be considered part of God’s chosen people. A vision from God instructed Peter to accept Cornelius and his household, despite their Gentile background. The Holy Spirit descended upon them, mirroring the experience of Jewish believers at Pentecost (Acts 2). This event demonstrated that salvation wasn’t restricted by ethnicity or religious practice.
Seeking Harmony: The Jerusalem Council (Acts 15)
Disagreement arose about requiring Gentile converts to follow Jewish practices like circumcision. The Jerusalem Council, led by apostles and elders, debated this issue. Peter recounted his experience with Cornelius, emphasizing that God accepts Gentiles through faith alone (Acts 15:7-11).
Freedom in Christ: Paul’s Teaching (Galatians)
Paul, the apostle to the Gentiles, vehemently argued against the imposition of Jewish law on Gentile believers. In Galatians 2:15-16, he clarifies that “even we who are Jews by birth, and not Gentile sinners, have come to know that a person is not justified by the works of the law, but by faith in Jesus Christ.” He emphasizes that salvation is a gift received through faith, not through adherence to rituals and regulations (Galatians 6:14-15).
Limited Restrictions: The Compromise (Acts 15:19-21)
The Jerusalem Council did propose some restrictions for Gentile converts. Acts 15:19-21 mentions abstaining from idolatry, sexual immorality, strangled animals (considered unclean), and blood. These restrictions aimed to minimize cultural clashes and maintain some common ground with Jewish believers. This can be seen as a practical concession to maintain unity while acknowledging the principle of salvation by faith.
Reconciling the Council and Paul
The Council’s limitations on Gentile converts might seem to contradict Paul’s strong stance against legalism. However, it’s crucial to consider the context. The Council’s restrictions were minimal and aimed at maintaining peace within the early Church. Paul’s opposition was against burdensome legal requirements that undermined the central role of faith in salvation (Galatians 5:1-4).
Does the Ruling Contradict Paul?
In essence, the Council and Paul ultimately agreed: Gentiles are saved by faith in Christ, not by following Jewish law. The Council’s restrictions were practical, not salvational requirements. Paul likely viewed them as temporary measures to bridge cultural gaps.
Contemporary Application: Inclusion and Outreach
The inclusion of Gentiles in the early Church offers valuable insights for today’s diverse congregations. It emphasizes that God’s love extends to all, regardless of background. Outreach efforts should be welcoming and inclusive, focusing on the core message of faith in Christ. Different cultural practices and traditions should be respected, just as the Jerusalem Council recognized the need for some adaptation when welcoming Gentiles.
Reflection:
The early Church’s struggles with inclusion offer a valuable lesson. Focusing on the core message of salvation by faith allows for diversity within the Church. Building bridges of understanding and respect, while upholding core beliefs, is crucial for creating a truly inclusive and welcoming Christian community.
