15.

 What was the major question debated at the first Council of the Holy Church?

            The Council of Jerusalem convened about 50 AD to decide the extent to which newly converted Gentiles would have to subject themselves to the requirements of Mosaic law. It was decided that non-Jews who turned to God should not be troubled with the rigorous precepts of the law of Moses, save in certain social matters so the Church could meet as one. This Council then made its decision known through letters to all the Christian Churches.

            This first Council is significant for two reasons: 1) through it, the Christian Church became a Universal Church whose mission was no longer restricted to the Jewish people; and 2) the Council set the precedent for Church leaders to meet in Councils in future internal and external conflicts.

            It is important to note here that when a decision has to be made, the Apostle Peter was not asked for his single-minded decision, as if he were an “infallible” pope. Instead, a Council of Apostles was convened.