Some men came down from Judea and began teaching the brethren, “Unless you are circumcised according to the custom of Moses, you cannot be saved.” And when Paul and Barnabas had great dissension and debate with them, the brethren determined that Paul and Barnabas and some others of them should go up to Jerusalem to the apostles and elders concerning this issue. Acts 15:1-2
People like to add extra requirements to what it takes to be saved. The Jews who came from a Pharisaical background, of course, wanted to add circumcision. An easy “add” for them, since they were all circumcised as babies. Imagine the reaction of an adult Gentile!
Have I added more to the gospel and created extra requirements for people for salvation? The Bible way is believe (with all your heart) and be baptized. Pretty simple description. Is it enough? Can believing and being baptized really lead someone into a personal relationship with Jesus Christ? Yes!
God, thank you that its the same for great and small, rich or poor, simple or genius. Help me present the uncluttered truth of the gospel and lead many to You and salvation. For as the Bible says “there is no other name given among men by which we must be saved”. Its just Jesus!
