Scripture:
Acts 15:9-11
9 and he made no distinction between us and them, having cleansed their hearts by faith. 10 Now, therefore, why are you putting God to the test by placing a yoke on the neck of the disciples that neither our fathers nor we have been able to bear? 11 But we believe that we will be saved through the grace of the Lord Jesus, just as they will.”
Observation:
Peter is giving clarity to the legalism and prideful statement of the elders and teachers. As they are trying to withhold the hand of God over traditions Peter pipes up and speaks up for the Gospel of Jesus.
Application:
Who do I place expectations on for receiving the Gospel? God has looked at mankind and saved ALL by his son Jesus. When I look at people and how they were raised, what denomination they are a part of, what tradition or statute they choose to follow how do I treat them when it comes to their faith in Christ by his grace? Peters words, “why are you putting God to the test by placing a yoke they can not bear” is convicting to me. How many times have I placed a yoke on people by the traditions or legalism of western Christianity? By grace I have been saved, bit of works but by the previous blood of Jesus. Then he changed me and still changes me. May I focus on the proclamation of the Gospel that saves dead people like myself. May I preach that we are saved by the grace of God through faith and not place yokes of slavery on people by the law.
Prayer:
God you are good and your love endures forever. May I not place in people what you have not placed on me. May I not hinder people from you but be the one who leads people to you. Forgive me for misrepresenting you at times and help me and lead me by your spirit to be an ambassador for you.