Book of Acts - Chapter 15 - Verse 24

This verse, found in Acts 15:24, is a response from the apostles and elders in Jerusalem to the Gentile believers in Antioch, Syria, and Cilicia. It addresses the issue of false teachers who were troubling the new believers by insisting that they needed to be circumcised and follow the Jewish law in order to be saved. The apostles and elders, led by the Holy Spirit, clarified that salvation comes through faith in Jesus Christ alone, not through adhering to the rituals and regulations of the law. By stating that they did not give such a commandment, the apostles emphasized the importance of standing firm in the true gospel message and not being swayed by false teachings that add unnecessary requirements to salvation.

This verse from the book of Acts discusses a theological issue faced by the early Christian community regarding the necessity of following Jewish laws, particularly with regards to circumcision and adherence to the Mosaic law. The apostles were troubled to learn that some believers were being misled by individuals who were advocating for adherence to these Jewish practices, claiming it was necessary for salvation. Through careful analysis of the original Greek text, scholars have noted that the word 'subverting' used in this verse implies a deliberate and malicious intent to undermine the true message of the gospel. The apostles emphasized that such requirements were not part of their teachings or instructions, clarifying that salvation is through faith in Christ alone, not by following the traditions of the Jewish law. This passage serves as a reminder to Christians to discern carefully when interpreting Scripture and to rely on sound theological principles to avoid being led astray by false teachings.