It’s been said that there is more confusion about Acts 15 than almost any other chapter of the Bible. How are we to understand what was at issue? What was the actual decision reached, and how was it reached?
The important question for us is what are the implications for us as Christians in terms of obedience to God? In order to understand we must take a closer look at the historical and Scriptural background and at how the Church arrived at its decision.
It’s been asserted that Jesus broke the Sabbath, and hence we are free to disregard it as well. But did Jesus break the Sabbath?
The basis for the idea that Jesus broke the Sabbath is the accusations made by Jesus’ enemies among the Pharisees and scribes. Because Jesus performed miracles of healing on the Sabbath, and did not honor their man made rules regarding Sabbath observance, the Pharisees accused him of breaking the Sabbath. But did he in fact, break the Sabbath?
Rod Reynolds discusses this question and its implications in this message. Continue reading
Many are puzzled or confused by the story of Lazarus and the rich man. Does this parable prove that some “go to heaven” and others “go to hell” when they die? That is, a hell where people are conscious and are tortured forever? Let’s review the story and see what the Scriptures tell us it really means. Continue reading