Tradition Versus Truth Series

Series: Action [#31]

TRADITION VERSUS TRUTH

Acts 15:1-11

Introduction:

I know none of us ever disagree with one another; but what if we do? There have been many times throughout Bel Aires’ history that we have had to determine the difference between tradition and truth. Please understand that I am not saying that traditions are not good; but I am saying that traditions cannot out-weigh the truths of God.

Acts 15:1, 5

1. Tradition: Jesus + Physical action = Salvation.

Here we see that this problem was not just local to 1 city. This belief of Jesus + Circumcision = Salvation had spread all over.

This traditional belief still exists- Jesus + Some action = Salvation. Some Christian Denominations teach that you must be baptized in order to be saved. Others teach that you have to complete catechism to be saved.

Acts 15:2-4, 6-11

2. Truth: Jesus is all you need for salvation.

Paul and Barnabas were debating tradition versus truth with these people. They were mixing Judaism with Christianity. Jesus tells us that He is the Way, the Truth, and the Life. No one can go to the Father except through Jesus.

Peter shared the same thing with those who were demanding that traditions of Judaism were necessary for salvation. Peter tells them that when a person is saved that God gives them the Holy Spirit. God does not discriminate between Jew and Gentile.

Conclusion:

I want everyone to notice the reaction of each Church. The Church appointed people to go to Jerusalem to ask the Apostles and Elders for help. Once they reached Jerusalem, the Apostles and Elders met together and discussed this question.

There was much prayer and study in this conference. We will see next week, the letter that they sent back to the Church.