The Relationship of Jewish and Gentile Believers to the Law Between A.D. 30 and 70 in the Scripture

143 Conclusion Paul's actions in this incident were not inconsistent with his lifestyle at other times . And although his actions were at least expedient (for they apparently pacified the Jewish believers of Jerusalem) they may also have been done out of conviction. Clearly Luke saw no incompatibility between salvation by faith and continued observance of the Law by Jewish believers. The thousands of believers in Jerusalem are not reprimanded for their position and Paul displays his loyalty for them in as public a way as possible. Wilson summarizes some of Luke ' s perspective, particularly as it is found in this chapter : It is made unquestionably clear that living according to the law ultimately has no bearing on the salvation of Jews or Gentiles. At the same time it is always implicit , and on one occasion explicit (Ac. 21) , that there is no conflict for Jews between living according to the law, indeed doing so zealously , and being a Christian. As a means of expressing piety , as distinct from a means of achieving salvation, it is viewed in a wholly positive light. 243 Conclusion Luke ' s story began in the Jewish capital and ended in the Gentile capital. Many hold that before that transition could occur the nation of Israel and/or her Law had to fir t be rejected. We have sought to show however that the Gentile mission was not launched at the expense of Israel but rather in harmony with God 's dealings with the nation. We have urveyed four major incidents in the book and evaluated them in light of thi theme (1) th martyrdom of tephen (6: 1- 8:2), (2) the alvation of orneliu (10 :1- 11 :1 ) , ( ) th Jeru a– lem ouncil (15 : 1- 16:3), and the purification of Paul (21 :19-26) . The martyrdom of teph n clearly r pr ented th r j ti n b mu h f th . ' [P ul] h (1 : ; 1 : 1 ; r br kin th 1 ho I to