“It is my judgment, therefore, that we should not make it difficult for the Gentiles who are turning to God.” – Acts 15:19
I remember one Saturday afternoon many years ago when I hopped into a car with three fellow soldiers (who happened to be black) and went with them to a party at a college a few hours away. They assured me that there would be girls there, and they weren’t lying. But it just so happens that of the 200+ people at this party, I was the only white guy there! They had neglected to tell me (and I’m pretty sure they did so on purpose) that this party was at an all-black university. I’d never felt so out of place in my entire life!
Have you ever been somewhere and felt like a total outsider?
The Gentiles in the early church must have felt like outsiders. Some Jewish believers insisted that they follow customs they had never grown up with, like circumcision, to be part of God’s family. It must’ve been so disheartening to think that faith in Jesus wasn’t enough. But the Jerusalem Council (in large part because of James’ Godly wisdom) declared a powerful truth, creating a pivotal moment for the early church: God’s salvation isn’t tied to a single culture. His grace is available to all people, regardless of their background.
This decision truly echoed God’s heart. From the beginning, His plan was to gather people from every nation into His family. Salvation comes through grace alone, not by works or cultural traditions.
Christians today can unintentionally create barriers too. Perhaps it’s through the way we judge others for their appearance, or their past mistakes, or their lack of knowledge about “how things work” in church. Sometimes, our own preferences – like expecting people to conform to certain traditions or styles – can make someone feel like they don’t belong.
But James’ reminder still speaks to us today: don’t make it difficult for those turning to God. Instead, let us reflect on how we can remove barriers, offering grace and encouragement to those who are looking for the hope we have in Jesus.
Today’s prayer: Lord, help me to see others the way You do. Show me the ways that I’ve made it harder for someone to come to You. Teach me to share Your grace freely, inviting everyone to know Your love. Amen.
Former Blackout Artist 