What scriptural basis did the Council of Jerusalem use to support its decisions?

The Council of Jerusalem, which took place around 50 AD as recorded in the Book of Acts, primarily referenced Acts 15 to support its decisions regarding the inclusion of Gentiles in the Christian community without imposing the full weight of Jewish laws upon them. In this council, the apostles and elders gathered to discuss whether Gentile converts needed to be circumcised and to follow the Law of Moses.

During this assembly, they drew on scriptural examples and theological insights that pointed to God's acceptance of Gentiles; for instance, the experiences of Peter with Cornelius, a Gentile, are cited as evidence of God granting the Holy Spirit to those outside of the Jewish faith. This understanding was pivotal as it underlined the belief that faith in Jesus Christ was sufficient for salvation, rather than adherence to the Torah.

Consequently, Acts 15 serves not only as the account of the council's discussions but also as a foundational text illustrating the early church's understanding of God's grace extending beyond ethnic and cultural boundaries. This passage encapsulates the council's decisions and theological reasoning, making it the definitive scriptural basis for their conclusions.