Dealing with Theological Aberations - Pt. 4: Some Timeless Principles
- Baptist Daily Devotional
- Aug 19
- 2 min read
Rev Osei Kwabena Nkrahene | August 19 2025 | Acts 15:1-5
KEY VERSE: “When they came to Jerusalem, they were welcomed by the church and the apostles and the elders, and they declared all that God had done with them.” Acts 15:4 (ESV)
MESSAGE:
Conflict within the church is not new. Acts 15 records one of the earliest disputes about whether Gentile believers should keep the law of Moses. Yet amid this theological debate, we find timeless principles for handling conflict without losing sight of God’s mission.
First, verses 1 and 5 show the audacity of those spreading false teaching. Their persistence reminds us that truth will always be challenged. Paul and Barnabas did not yield, teaching us that in resolving conflict, we must not compromise on core values.
Second, verse 2 points to a higher authority. The church is both a spiritual body and a structured organisation, and conflicts require processes and structures to guide resolution.
Third, verse 3 shows the careful selection of delegates. Paul, Barnabas, and others were chosen—stakeholders who could represent the matter well. Listening to all sides was vital; it addressed murmuring and ensured fairness.
Finally, verse 4 demonstrates that even amid difficulties, ministry continues. The delegation was warmly received, and the church heard testimonies of God’s work among the Gentiles. Conflict did not paralyse their mission.
FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE:
We should not give way to false doctrines but remain firm in upholding the truth of the gospel. It is important to follow established procedures in resolving disputes to preserve unity. We must also be intentional in listening to all perspectives on a conflict and careful in selecting those who represent us in such matters. Above all, we should remember that conflict must not halt the ongoing mission of the Church.
PRAYER:
Lord Jesus Christ, help me to hold fast to truth, listen with wisdom, and continue Your work even when conflict arises. Amen. THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING.
SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!!
The 365 DAILY BIBLE READING Day 231: 2 Chronicles 13–17 — Good Kings: Abijah, Asa, and Jehoshaphat
DAILY word study: WELCOMED The word “welcomed” in Acts 15:4 comes from the Greek apodechomai, which means to receive warmly, to embrace, or to accept gladly. This was not a mere formal greeting but a heartfelt recognition of God’s work in Paul and Barnabas. The early church, including the apostles and elders, received them with joy and openness, creating an atmosphere for healthy dialogue.
Reflect on This:
How do you welcome others who carry testimonies or even concerns? A spirit of apodechomai turns gatherings into places of encouragement, unity, and grace.
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