The Council of Jerusalem

The early church leaders decide that Gentile believers don't need to follow Jewish law to be saved.

Early ChurchNew Testament

What Happened

A major dispute erupts over whether non-Jewish converts must be circumcised and follow the Law of Moses. Paul and Barnabas travel to Jerusalem to settle the question with the apostles and elders. After intense debate, Peter, James, and the council agree that salvation comes through grace, not through the law. They send a letter to Gentile believers with just a few basic guidelines — a watershed moment that shapes Christianity's future.

Read It

Acts

The Debate That Changed Everything

The early church faces its first major identity crisis: do non-Jewish believers have to become Jewish first? What follows is a Christ-centered debate, a surprising verdict, and a decision that shapes the future of the faith forever.

Key People

PaulBarnabasPeterJames

Key Places

Jerusalem Antioch

Share this event