When we read Acts 15:1–18, we see a powerful account of how the early church faced questions, disagreements, and yet witnessed the undeniable move of God among the Gentiles. Paul and Barnabas were passionate about carrying the Gospel beyond the walls of Jerusalem to the Gentiles, and God Himself validated their mission with mighty signs and wonders.
The Scriptures say, “God, who knows the heart, acknowledged them by giving them the Holy Spirit, just as He did to us.” (Acts 15:8, NKJV). It was God’s doing from beginning to end — not man’s brilliance, charisma, or power, but the faithfulness of God alone.
We Are Called to Be Consumed with the Gospel
Like Paul and Barnabas, our hearts must burn with the desire to see the Good News reach every soul. Jesus Himself declared: “But you shall receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you shall be witnesses to Me…” (Acts 1:8). The power is not for self-exaltation but for witness — to point people to Jesus Christ, the only One who can heal our broken, warring, and dying world.
God Validates His Message with Signs and Wonders
God backed Paul and Barnabas with wonders. When we truly preach Christ, God still confirms His Word today. But we must remember: miracles are never an end in themselves. They point to the Messiah. They magnify Christ. They show the glory of God to a world in desperate need.
Be Ready for Opposition
Often, when God’s power is moving, so is the enemy. Amidst revival, there was also resistance and dispute (Acts 15:1–2). We must not be surprised when opposition comes. Jesus warned us: “In the world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world.” (John 16:33). So, like the apostles, we stand firm, rooted in the truth, unwavering in our mission.
Never Touch His Glory
One grave temptation in seasons of mighty manifestations is to receive or share in the glory that belongs to God alone. But the Word asks, “Shall the axe boast itself against him who chops with it? Or shall the saw exalt itself against him who saws with it?” (Isaiah 10:15). No matter how mightily God uses you, remember you are just the instrument; He is the Craftsman.
Herod learned this lesson the hard way when he received the praise of men but did not give glory to God — and he fell under judgment (Acts 12:21–23). So too, we must always deflect praise back to the One who alone is worthy.
Keep the Focus on Jesus
At the heart of it all is this: Only Jesus saves. The world does not need another hero; it needs the Saviour. Our gifts, our ministries, our signs and wonders — all must lead people to the cross. “For we do not preach ourselves, but Christ Jesus the Lord…” (2 Corinthians 4:5).
Dear believer, remain humble. Stay hidden in Christ. When God works through you — whether in your home, your church, your city, or to the ends of the earth — remember: it is His power, His message, His harvest, His glory.
Let our lives echo John the Baptist’s heart: “He must increase, but I must decrease.” (John 3:30).
May the Lord find us faithful, usable, and quick to give Him all the glory — now and forever.
With Love, Esinam.
Virtuous Living 