Acts 11: Testing the New: Discernment in the Life of the Church

In Acts 11, the early church is confronted with something completely new—Gentiles receiving the gospel and the Holy Spirit. The question is unavoidable: Is this really from God?In this Bible study, we explore how the apostles and leaders in Jerusalem responded to unexpected change. Instead of reacting with fear or blind acceptance, they carefully evaluated what was happening in light of Scripture, the work of the Spirit, and the testimony of trusted witnesses.This passage gives us a timeless framework for discernment in the church today. Not everything new is wrong—but not everything new is right either. So how do we know the difference?In this study, we’ll cover:How Peter defends the inclusion of the GentilesWhy the Jerusalem church pauses to evaluate before affirmingThe role of Scripture, testimony, and the Holy Spirit in doctrinal discernmentWhat it looks like to remain faithful while embracing what God is doingWhether you’re a church leader, a student of Scripture, or simply someone seeking clarity in a changing world, Acts 11 offers wisdom for testing what is true and recognizing the work of God.Join us as we learn how to be a church that is both grounded in truth and open to the movement of the Spirit.