Many matters needed clarification for the first-century Christians. For example, there were questions about the new covenant that had gone into effect on the day of Pentecost. Was the new covenant limited to Jews and Jewish proselytes? Could Gentiles also be accepted into it and be anointed with holy spirit? (Acts 10:45) Would Gentile males first need to be circumcised and to submit to the Mosaic Law? (Acts 15:1, 5) It was through responsible brothers that each issue was raised for consideration by the governing body. Peter, Paul, and Barnabas were at that meeting and recounted how Jehovah had been dealing with uncircumcised Gentiles. (Acts 15:7-12) After considering this evidence in the light of indications in the Hebrew Scriptures and with the help of holy spirit, the governing body made a decision. Then they wrote to the congregations about it.—Acts 15:25-30; 16:4, 5. w10 7/15 4:5, 6
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