The Council of Jerusalem's Significance

The Council of Jerusalem plays a crucial role in the early Church, addressing the contentious issue of whether Gentile converts need to undergo circumcision to be saved. The apostles, led by Peter, emphasized that salvation comes through the grace of the Lord Jesus, not adherence to the law of Moses, thereby establishing an essential precedent for the Church's authority to interpret God's will. The debates during this council showcase the need for visible and structured leadership within the Church, as it sought a resolution to this major doctrinal question. This moment solidified the understanding that decisions made by the Church can be divinely guided and necessary for maintaining the unity and truth of the Christian faith.