You asked

how do new testament passages like acts 15 reflect on or develop this idea of gentile inclusion?

The passage, plainly, with room to sit with it.

Acts 15:19-20

““Therefore my judgment is that we don’t trouble those from among the Gentiles who turn to God, but that we instruct them by letter to abstain from the pollution of idols, from sexual immorality, from what is strangled, and from blood.””

This passage comes from the Acts of the Apostles, a historical narrative attributed to Luke. It describes a pivotal council in Jerusalem, likely held around 49 AD, where early Christian leaders debated whether Gentile converts needed to be circumcised and follow the full Mosaic Law to be saved. Peter, Paul, Barnabas, and James (Jesus' brother) all speak, ultimately leading to this decision.

What aspects of your community's identity or practices might inadvertently create barriers for new people seeking to join?

Keep thinking

Read alongside it

Galatians 2:11-14
Describes Paul's confrontation with Peter over separating from Gentiles, highlighting ongoing tensions.
Isaiah 56:6-7
An Old Testament prophecy envisioning foreigners joining God's people and worshipping in his house.
Ephesians 2:11-22
Explains how Christ broke down the 'dividing wall' between Jews and Gentiles, creating one new humanity.

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