A Word from Acts 21

Have you ever disagreed with a brother or sister in Christ about a question related to faith? To be honest, I'd be surprised if you haven't! After all, most of us have lots of questions about theology, and the Bible, and Christian living. And since you can usually find plenty of teachers who come down on different sides of these issues, it's only natural that we'd disagree now and then.

And that's why the important follow-up question is, "What do you do about those disagreements?" Because as tempting as it is to get caught up in battles about who's right and who's wrong, scripture calls us to "maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace" (Eph. 4:3). And that's why today's word from Acts 21 offers an example that could be instructive.

After several missionary journeys among the Gentiles, Paul arrived in Jerusalem. And when he met with the apostles, they told him, "You know, brother, how many thousands of Jews have also believed, and they all follow the law of Moses very seriously. But they have been told that you are teaching all the Jews who live among the Gentiles to turn their backs on the laws of Moses...So, what should we do?" (21:20-21)

Well, Paul could've defended his ministry and stirred passions that probably would've created more division. But instead, as instructed by the apostles, he joined some Jewish believers in honoring the practices of their ancestors. And while that didn't stop others from stirring up division, Paul was able to "practice what he preached" about protecting the Body of Christ.

And I think we could do the same! When we have differences about what it takes to follow Jesus, we could be humble, and honor each other, and value people more than the positions they hold.

So, what will you do to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace? 

May they know we are Christians by our love. Amen.