A dispute arose in the early church over whether Gentile believers were required to follow certain Jewish customs, particularly circumcision, to be saved. Christ's death on the cross not only secured salvation for all but broke down the barriers that separated Jews and Gentiles, making them one in Christ. Join us for session four as we discuss the futility of adding works to salvation and the unity we are called to maintain in Christ.



Verses Used:

Acts 15:1-2

Genesis 17:7-14

Galatians 2:16

Romans 4:1-3, 11 & 13

Colossians 2:11-13

Romans 2:28-29

Ephesians 2:11-19

Acts 15:28-29



Discussion Questions:

What conflict arises between Jewish and Gentile believers, and what was the original purpose of this custom? What did it foreshadow?

How does the requirement of circumcision invalidate Ephesians 2:8-9, and what can works not do? (See Galatians 2:16)

The Jews were trying to add requirements to salvation. In modern days, what things do we tack on to salvation?

Instead of physical circumcision, what does the Lord actually want? (See Deuteronomy 30:6, Philippians 3:2-3, 1 Corinthians 7:19, and Galatians 5:5-6 & 6:15)

The Jews were hesitant to accept the Gentiles as saved. Are there people we believe are not saved just because they do not act or look exactly like us? Why is unity in Christ so important to strive for? (See Acts 1034, Ephesians 2:11-19 & 4:4)