Tuesday
Reading: Acts 15
SOAP: Acts 15:10-11
“So now why are you putting God to the test by placing on the neck of the disciples a yoke that neither our ancestors nor we have been able to bear? On the contrary, we believe that we are saved through the grace of the Lord Jesus, in the same way as they are.”
As the early church grew, spreading both to Jews and Gentiles, many Jews were upset about the inclusion of Gentile believers. Some began saying that, to be saved, a person had to be circumcised according to the customs of Moses. This directly contradicted the gospel of Christ, which is that a person is saved by grace through faith in Jesus Christ.
Peter challenged the church leaders in Jerusalem as they discussed this conflict. The requirements the men from Judea put on the people were stricter than what they held for themselves. Peter reminded them of the truth: we are saved through the grace of the Lord Jesus.
All are saved through the grace of God, whether Jew or Gentile, male or female, slave or free, rich or poor, healthy or sick. We are all saved by grace. There is no way to earn salvation, no matter how good we think we are. It is grace alone that saves. This is good news because God offers salvation by grace through faith in Christ to all who believe in Him.
Lord Jesus, I am so thankful You have granted salvation to all people. I am humbled You have allowed me to be Your child by no strength, no action, no work of my own. I believe it is by Your grace alone I am saved. Help me remember and live out this truth. Amen.