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“We Have Come to a Unanimous Decision”“Bearing Thorough Witness” About God’s Kingdom
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7, 8. (a) What did James propose? (b) How should we understand James’ words?
7 Moved by such Scriptural evidence and the powerful testimony he had heard, James went on to offer these words for consideration: “Therefore, my decision is not to trouble those from the nations who are turning to God, but to write them to abstain from things polluted by idols, from sexual immorality, from what is strangled, and from blood.
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“We Have Come to a Unanimous Decision”“Bearing Thorough Witness” About God’s Kingdom
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8 When James said “therefore my decision is,” was he asserting his authority—perhaps as chairman of the meeting—over the other brothers and arbitrarily deciding what was to be done? Not at all! The Greek expression rendered “my decision is” may also mean “I judge” or “I give an opinion.” Far from ruling over the entire body, James was proposing for their consideration a course of action based on the evidence heard and on what the Scriptures say about the matter.
9. James’ proposal offered what benefits?
9 Was James’ proposal a good one? Obviously it was, for the apostles and the elders later adopted it. With what benefits? On the one hand, the recommended course would not “trouble,” or “make it difficult for,” Gentile Christians by imposing upon them the requirements of the Mosaic Law. (Acts 15:19; New International Version)
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