LEGALISM CONTROVERSY

Legalism Controversy

Legalism Controversy

These phrases in Acts 15:1 inserts a topic which disputed the Christian church shortly after its inception and would extend to be argued amidst the believers for years to come. But where did this argument originate? Why was it such a vital issue for the early church? How did the apostles deal with this dispute to the gospel of the Lord Jesus Christ? and what were the repercussions of their decision? This term paper is a try to response these and other inquiries surrounding this intriguing centered episode in the publication of Acts. First? the backdrop and origin of the circumcision inquiry will be considered; secondly? the environment and significances of the inquiry itself; thirdly? the method of argument and conclusion pursued by the Jerusalem council; and eventually? the ramifications of the apostles' edict for the early church as a whole.

 

The Cause

In alignment to find this topic back to its origins? one should proceed back to the Old Testament and address what it has to state about the connection between Jew and Gentile. In the Garden of Eden and in the world of Noah's day? there was no parting between the two groups. The Law had not yet been disclosed? and men were ruled solely by conscience (Rom. 2:14-15). Certain admonitions and limits were granted to Noah by God after the inundate (Gen. 9:1-7)? but these were couple of and general in nature. Not until God chose Abraham and his descendants to become his exclusive and exceptional selected persons? Israel? and not until He increased up Moses to lead the Israelites out of bondage and to broadcast to them His Law? did a clear distinction appear between Jew and Gentile.

Once the distinction emerged? although? God made it clear that He desired the parting between His persons and the ...