November 23, 2025

This sermon examines the Jerusalem Council in Acts 15, focusing on how the early church navigated theological disagreement while maintaining unity. The central issue was whether Gentile converts needed to follow the law of Moses for salvation. The sermon emphasizes that salvation is through Christ alone, not Christ plus anything else. Peter argued from experience (seeing the Holy Spirit fall on Cornelius's household), while James argued from Scripture, both concluding that Gentiles didn't need to convert to Judaism. The message stresses that gospel doctrine must lead to gospel community—theological correctness without love and unity is insufficient. The church today must remain open to the Holy Spirit's leading while keeping focused on the mission to reach the lost. The sermon calls believers to be Spirit-led people who eagerly desire spiritual gifts, especially prophecy, for the purpose of encouraging and building up the church.