Compromise In Jerusalem. Acts 21-15-40.

Pause for thought

Although the decree of the Jerusalem counsel was written and decided (Acts 15) there was still controversy both within the Jerusalem church (Acts 21:20) and in the wider Jewish community. Fearing trouble from baseless accusations that Paul was teaching against not just circumcision and the Law but the Temple and Judaism. The Jerusalem leaders headed by James the Lords brother persuaded Paul to accompany and pay for four Jewish men who were making a vow over seven days in the Temple, this they hoped would show that Paul still kept and honoured the Law 21:24. I feel sure that the relevancy of these things to Paul were gone, but for the sake of the Jerusalem church Paul agreed to their plan. I believe Paul’s compromise was not weakness but a sign of strength.

At the time of Pentecost Jews from the whole Roman Empire were in Jerusalem. Some who were at odds with Paul and had seen him in Asia preaching the gospel, mistakenly thought Paul had taken Trophimus a Greek into the Temple, they started a riot and then tried to kill Paul. Compromise on this occasion almost led to disaster!

Paul was rescued by the Roman garrison, and was given permission to address the crowd. It’s noticeable that no mention of the Holy Spirit is made although He obviously caused Luke to write about these events. However when Paul motioned with his hand It was at that moment and during Paul’s address that the anointing of the Holy Spirit was evident 21:40

Compromise is sometimes needed to avoid disagreements about minor issues getting out of hand, like Paul we need to be firm about the essentials of our faith but flexible on those non essentials!

Memory verse

When I am with those who are oppressed, I share their oppression so that I might bring them to Christ. Yes, I try to find common ground with everyone so that I might bring them to Christ 1 Corinthians 9:22 N.L.T.

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