James’ response

At last, it was time for James, the presiding leader, to speak. “After they stopped speaking, James responded, saying, ‘Brothers, listen to me.’” (1) James was the half-brother of Jesus. The fact that his name appears without explanation indicates that everyone knew him well. (2) Though he was an unbeliever during Jesus’ public ministry, he became a believer after encountering the resurrected Jesus (1 Cor. 15:7). (3) Afterward, he served as the overseer of the Jerusalem church for 18 years (44–62 AD). As the apostles dispersed to various mission fields, James bore the heavy responsibility of leading the Jerusalem church. According to church tradition, he was called “James the Just.” It is also said that his knees became as calloused as those of a camel (from spending so much time in prayer). He was a highly respected leader who faithfully fulfilled his duties. (4) He is the author of the Epistle of James. (a) He valued the Torah. (b) He emphasized that faith is accompanied by action. (c) The Epistle of James reminds readers of Jesus’ “Sermon on the Mount” (Matt. 5–7). (d) The Greek used by James is sophisticated, suggesting a level of education beyond that of the typical Galilean laborer. There has been a reassessment of the influence of Greco-Roman culture in the Galilean region. (5) James requested that the audience listen attentively to what he had to say.

Referencing Peter’s explanation

“Simeon has described how God first concerned Himself about taking a people for His name from among the Gentiles.” (1) James referred to Peter by the Aramaic name “Simeon” (Hebrew name Simon). This was to emphasize Peter’s Jewish identity and to express affection. (2) The phrase “first concerned” is significant. Barnabas and Paul were not the first to engage in Gentile missions. It was God who initiated the salvation of the Gentiles, and He used Peter for this purpose. In other words, the issue of Gentile salvation had been resolved even before the first missionary journey。(3) God has called out a remnant, not only from the Jews but also from among the Gentiles. The church is a mystery (a truth not revealed in the Old Testament). Jewish believers and Gentile believers are “one new person” in Christ, and they stand on equal ground (Eph. 2:11–22, 3:6). We, as Gentiles, have been called out from the world by God‘s grace. Let us remember this and praise His name.