Paul and Barnabas traveled to Jerusalem to settle a question that would impact all of Christendom.  Was is necessary for Gentiles to become Jewish by being circumcised and observe the Law of Moses in order to be saved?  (Acts 15:1, 5)

The apostles and the elders in Jerusalem met together to consider this question.
There was much debate, and then Peter stood reminding them of earlier days of God’s choice.  By Peter’s mouth the Gentiles would hear the word of the gospel and believe.  God’s testimony to the Gentiles was to give them the Holy Spirit, “cleansing their hearts by faith.”  (Acts 15:6-9)

Peter ended by stating, “But we believe that we are saved through the grace of the Lord Jesus, in the same way as they also are.”  (Acts 15:11)

Everyone there kept silence as they listened to Barnabas and Paul…they related the “signs and wonders God had done through them among the Gentiles.”  (Acts 15:12)

James, the leader in Jerusalem, then took the floor.  He pointed out Peter’s testimony, and then pointed to the Prophets who prophesied of the Gentiles being called by God’s name.  (Acts 15:13-18)  What was James’ conclusion?
(NASB) Acts 15:19 “Therefore it is my judgment that we do not trouble those who are turning to God from among the Gentiles…”

There was ample evidence of God at work among the Gentiles without their being circumcised or becoming Jewish.  Peter, Barnabas and Paul, the Prophets and James were in agreement with what the Lord God was doing.  God was at work through these men.  The Jews and Gentiles were saved by grace of the Lord Jesus plus nothing. Circumcision was not a requirement to be saved.

Today, there is evidence of God continuing to work in the lives of people throughout the world…who are saved by faith alone in the Lord Jesus.  No works, no rituals, no complicated incantations are needed.  Belief in the Lord Jesus as your Savior is simple, straightforward and sure.

It is easy to fall into the trap – that we have to do something other than just believe.  Too simple, you think?  No, it was not simple for Jesus…He suffered and died in our place so that we would not need to take the punishment our sins deserve.  That is the gift that is offered to you and me.  The gift of sins forgiven; the gift of eternal life in His presence.

Is there evidence of God at work in your life?