Let go of control
by Stuart Gray
Click here to download your printable verse to carry with you today.
We believe it is through the grace of our Lord Jesus that we are saved (Acts 15:11).
Read Acts 15:1–11
It is often hard to let go of habits or beliefs we have held for a long time, even if they are no longer appropriate. For around 1500 years, circumcision had been part of the Law of Moses and a mark of belonging to God’s people; therefore, suddenly accepting this was no longer the case was difficult.
This passage relates to another great turning point in the early church. What is the relationship between the traditional Jews who now believe the promise of a saviour has been fulfilled and the Gentiles newly converted to the faith? I note that the church leaders were not afraid to tackle the significant issues impacting them as they arose and did so in a robust manner.
Peter argues the Gentiles are accepted by God because they have the same Holy Spirit as the Christian Jews, and why burden the Gentiles with burdens that they (the Jews) nor their ancestors could bear? The Christian Pharisees argued that the Law of Moses must be maintained and that circumcision was a critical part of that law.
Then Peter states one of the fundamental tenets of Christianity: it is through the grace of our Lord Jesus that we are saved. There is no place for legalism, the law has been fulfilled, and salvation is not by works of the law.
In an age where we think we have control over our lives, it is difficult to accept that the most valuable aspect of our lives – being in relationship with God and being with him eternally – is only available by the grace of someone else. God’s grace is truly humbling and awesome at the same time.
Heavenly Father, we pray for faith to truly believe that we are saved by the grace of your Son, Jesus Christ. We pray that the Holy Spirit sustains us in that faith. Amen.
Stuart, with his wife Pamela Dalgliesh, lives in Mansfield, Victoria. Stuart has a background in agricultural science, rural journalism and corporate affairs. He loves living on a small farm in the beautiful High Country of Victoria, being involved in the Mansfield community and travelling. He is currently travelling in Europe, which will include a visit to the Poznan region of Poland, where some of Australia’s original German Lutherans came.
- Click here to read previous devotions.
- We are also posting them on LCA Facebook, making it easy for you to share them with family and friends.
- Sign up to receive Daily Devotion in your inbox every morning. If you’re already doing that, please encourage others to sign up. Click here for the link.
