Les Feldick Bible Study

What got the Jews' attention when Paul and Barnabas reported at the Jerusalem council?

The Jews' attention was captured when Paul and Barnabas declared the miracles and wonders God had wrought among the Gentiles. Acts 15 records that the multitude kept silence and gave audience to their report, and this miraculous evidence convinced the Jewish believers, since Jews required a sign.

Les explains that the Jews required a sign, while Gentiles were ready to believe upon hearing. At the Jerusalem council, Paul and Barnabas reported the miracles and wonders God had done among the Gentiles (Acts 15:12). The multitude kept silence and listened, and this miraculous report got the Jews' attention; it convinced them, for without such signs they would not have bought it. After they held their peace, James answered.

Acts 15:12

Then all the multitude kept silence, and gave audience to Barnabas and Paul, declaring what miracles and wonders God had wrought among the Gentiles by them.

More Questions

Why were the Jews at the Jerusalem council convinced by Paul and Barnabas?

If Paul and Barnabas could not have rehearsed miraculous signs and miracles from their ministry, the Jews at the Jerusalem council would never have accepted their report—but since they could, the Jews were convinced.

Why was Peter's defense at the Jerusalem council so critical for Paul?

At the Jerusalem conference in Acts 15:12, Peter came to Paul's rescue and defended him; if Peter had not done so, Paul's gospel would have died right then and there.