Truth, Misinformation, The Law, and Nationalism
Acts 21:15–22 (NASB95)
15After these days we got ready and started on our way up to Jerusalem. 16Some of the disciples from Caesarea also came with us, taking us to Mnason of Cyprus, a disciple of long standing with whom we were to lodge. 17After we arrived in Jerusalem, the brethren received us gladly. 18And the following day Paul went in with us to James, and all the elders were present. 19After he had greeted them, he began to relate one by one the things which God had done among the Gentiles through his ministry. 20And when they heard it they began glorifying God; and they said to him, “You see, brother, how many thousands there are among the Jews of those who have believed, and they are all zealous for the Law; 21and they have been told about you, that you are teaching all the Jews who are among the Gentiles to forsake Moses, telling them not to circumcise their children nor to walk according to the customs. 22“What, then, is to be done? They will certainly hear that you have come.
The subsequent verses introduce an engaging and informative series of circumstances. It becomes evident that misinformation will be employed against Paul, compelling him to defend himself through the truth of the gospel. During his discourse with the individuals in Jerusalem, Paul’s defense provides modern-day Christian individuals with a deeper comprehension of our stance towards the Mosaic Law. Furthermore, it offers a glimpse into the distinction between good and bad nationalism. This message resonates particularly well as we approach the July 4th holiday. Indeed, there exists a phenomenon I would call negative Christian nationalism. However, this discussion will be addressed in the subsequent verses and likely serve as the central focus of this Sunday’s sermon.
Paul’s arrival in Jerusalem is marked by both celebration and tension. Upon meeting James and the elders, Paul shares the incredible work God has done among the Gentiles, and they glorify God for it. However, the leaders also address a troubling issue: misinformation about Paul’s teachings. Some Jewish believers, zealous for the law, had been falsely told that Paul was teaching Jews to abandon the law of Moses and their customs. This claim was not true, as Paul himself respected Jewish traditions, even circumcising Timothy to avoid unnecessary offense. This misinformation was used to stir division and suspicion within the church, highlighting the destructive power of misinformation and fake news. How do the church leaders and Paul overcome this situation? We will see in the coming verses.
Paul’s experience reminds us of the critical importance of truth in maintaining unity within the church. Misinformation, fake news, and false accusations can easily sow division, just as they did in Paul’s time. As believers, we must be vigilant in seeking and speaking the truth, ensuring that our words and actions reflect God’s character. Additionally, as we will see in the upcoming verses, Paul’s willingness to go the extra mile to preserve unity challenges us to approach disagreements with humility and a desire for reconciliation. In a world where misinformation spreads quickly, let us commit to being people of truth, standing firm in God’s Word, and working to build unity within the body of Christ.