11. We certainly believe that the Lord Jesus saves us the same way that he saves them—through his kindness.”
12. The whole crowd was silent. They listened to Barnabas and Paul tell about all the miracles and amazing things that God had done through them among non-Jewish people.
13. After they finished speaking, James responded, “Brothers, listen to me.
14. Simon has explained how God first showed his concern by taking from non-Jewish people those who would honor his name.
15. This agrees with what the prophets said. Scripture says,
16. ‘Afterwards, I will return.I will set up David’s fallen tent again.I will restore its ruined places again.I will set it up again
17. so that the survivors and all the people who aren’t Jewishover whom my name is spoken,may search for the Lord, declares the Lord.
18. He is the one who will do these things that have always been known!’
19. “So I’ve decided that we shouldn’t trouble non-Jewish people who are turning to God.
20. Instead, we should write a letter telling them to keep away from things polluted by false gods, from sexual sins, from eating the meat of strangled animals, and from eating bloody meat.
21. After all, Moses’ words have been spread to every city for generations. His teachings are read in synagogues on every day of worship.”
22. Then the apostles, the spiritual leaders, and the whole church decided to choose some of their men to send with Paul and Barnabas to the city of Antioch. They chose Judas (called Barsabbas) and Silas, who were leaders among the believers.
23. They wrote this letter for them to deliver:From the apostles and the spiritual leaders, your brothers.To their non-Jewish brothers and sisters in Antioch, Syria, and Cilicia.Dear brothers and sisters,
24. We have heard that some individuals who came from us have confused you with statements that disturb you. We did not authorize these men ⌊to speak⌋.
25. So we have come to a unanimous decision that we should choose men and send them to you with our dear Barnabas and Paul.
26. Barnabas and Paul have dedicated their lives to our Lord, the one named Jesus Christ.
27. We have sent Judas and Silas to report to you on our decision.
28. The Holy Spirit and we have agreed not to place any additional burdens on you. Do only what is necessary
29. by keeping away from food sacrificed to false gods, from eating bloody meat, from eating the meat of strangled animals, and from sexual sins. If you avoid these things, you will be doing what’s right.Farewell!
30. So the men were sent on their way and arrived in the city of Antioch. They gathered the congregation together and delivered the letter.