In Acts 15, we see a crucial moment in the early church, where the inclusion of Gentiles as equals in the faith was debated. This chapter reminds us of the power of God’s promises and how Scripture can guide us through times of decision-making and potential division. It also stirs our faith in believing that God is still at work, fulfilling His promises, and bringing revival in our time, just as He did in the early church.
We don’t see the church pray in this section, but we do see the church trust in God’s promise for how he will review his people in an unexpected way.
“The words of the prophets are in agreement with this, as it is written: ‘After this I will return and rebuild David’s fallen tent. Its ruins I will rebuild, and I will restore it, that the rest of mankind may seek the Lord, even all the Gentiles who bear my name, says the Lord, who does these things—things known from long ago.’” —Acts 15:15-17 NIV
How does this passage encourage us to trust in his promises?
1. Trusting the Promises of God in Division:
The early church faced a significant challenge as they debated whether non-Jewish believers should follow Jewish customs. This was not a minor issue but one that had the potential to divide the church. Yet, in the midst of this challenge, we see the power of God’s promises and His ability to guide His people through His Word.
2. Trusting the Promises of God in Decision-Making:
James, the leader of the Jerusalem church, turned to Scripture to find clarity. By quoting Amos 9:11-12, he reminded the church that God’s plan had always included the Gentiles. This appeal to prophecy shows us how vital it is to ground our decisions in the promises of God. When we face difficulties, we can find hope and direction in God’s Word, knowing that His promises are sure.
3. Trusting the Promises of God for Revival:
The fulfillment of God’s promise to include the Gentiles was a form of revival in the early church. It was a move of God that expanded the reach of the gospel and transformed the lives of many. Today, we can trust in those same promises and believe that God can bring revival in our time as well. Scriptures reminds us,
“Lord, I have heard of your fame; I stand in awe of your deeds, Lord. Repeat them in our day, in our time make them known; in wrath remember mercy.” —Habakkuk 3:2 NIV
God promises to pour out His Spirit on all people (Joel 2:28), and He is faithful to His Word. Just as He brought a powerful move of the Spirit in the book of Acts, He can do the same in our generation. He can rebuild the “ruins” in our lives, our churches, and our communities, and bring about a revival that will lead many to seek the Lord.
As followers of Jesus, we are called to trust in the promises of God. The God who fulfilled His promises in the early church is the same God who is with us today. He is faithful, and His Word never fails (Lk 1:37). Let us pray with expectation, believe in His promises, and be ready for the revival that He can bring in our time.
- What promises of God are you holding on to for revival in your life or community?
- How can you strengthen your faith in God’s ability to fulfill His promises today?
- Are there areas in your life where you need to trust God more deeply and believe in His power to bring about change?
Prayer:
Lord, I thank You for Your Word and the promises that are found within it. I believe that You are the same yesterday, today, and forever, and that You are still at work in our lives and in our world. I pray for revival in our day, just as You brought revival in the early church. Pour out Your Spirit on us, rebuild what has been broken, and bring many to seek Your name. Strengthen our faith to trust in Your promises and to expect great things from You. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.