This teaching takes a look at the council that was held in Jerusalem to address the doctrine of compulsory circumcision that was being taught by a certain sect of new Judean Christians. They were teaching that in order to be truly saved the Gentiles had to become circumcised. Paul and Barnabas visited Jerusalem in order to deal with this subversive doctrine. Paul declared to the apostles and elders what he and Barnabas had been teaching on their recent journey and also related all the miracles that they had seen. After disputation and discussion, Peter spoke up and said that God had first chosen him to take the gospel to the Gentiles and that they should not now teach the Gentiles that the Law of Moses was still in effect. Eventually this was agreed and a letter was sent to the believers confirming that circumcision was not necessary. Shortly after the council, Paul had to confront Peter on this very same issue for he had become fearful of this legalistic doctrine that was still being taught. Barnabas also was carried away with this hypocrisy. Paul had to reaffirm that justification came by believing in Jesus Christ and not by works of the Law. Overall, there was clear indication by the events of the council that there was not full agreement among the apostles and elders concerning this doctrine.