18, 19. What powerful words did Peter speak, and what conclusion should his listeners have reached?

¹⁸ Luke continued: “After much intense discussion had taken place, Peter rose and said . . . : ‘Men, brothers, you well know that from early days God made the choice among you that through my mouth people of the nations should hear the word of the good news and believe.

(Acts 15:7-9)

According to one reference work, the Greek word translated “intense discussion” in verse 7 also denotes “a seeking; a questioning.” Apparently, the brothers had honest differences of opinion, which they openly expressed.

¹⁹ Peter’s powerful words reminded all that he himself was present when the first uncircumcised Gentiles​—Cornelius and his household—​were anointed with holy spirit in 36 C.E.