Acts 14:8-15:35

Acts 14:9 – Some argue that this verse indicates a person must have faith in order to be healed, but this is not the pattern we see in the rest of the New Testament (see Acts 3:1-10; Luke 7:12-15). There is no record in the New Testament of someone trying to miraculously heal someone and failing because the recipient lacked faith. When the disciples failed to cure the demon-possessed boy, Jesus blamed the disciples for their lack of faith, not the boy (Matthew 7:14-21).

• Matthew 9:20-30 – Sometimes faith of the healed was mentioned and sometimes not.

Acts 14:21-22 – It must surely have been a great encouragement to the disciples to see Paul and Barnabas return to the cities where Paul was nearly killed.

Acts 15:1-18 – There was a big question about the role of the law of Moses. Notice that this was not a matter to be voted on. The apostles and elders led the people to the right conclusion.

• Acts 15:6-11 – Peter tells of his own experience with Cornelius.

• Acts 15:12 – Paul and Barnabas tell about preaching to the Gentiles with signs and wonders (Acts 13:46-48; 14:2-3, 27; 15:3).

• Acts 15:13-18 – James appeals to prophetic statements. Amos said the Gentiles would be called by God’s name.

Acts 15:20, 28-29; 21:25 – The emphasis here seems to be on avoiding things involved in idol worship.