9. He showed that there is no difference between us and them. He made their hearts pure because of their faith.
10. "Now then, why are you trying to test God? You test him when you put a heavy load on the believers' shoulders. Our people of long ago couldn't carry that load. We can't either.
11. No! We believe we are saved through the grace of our Lord Jesus. Those who aren't Jews are saved in the same way."
12. Everyone became quiet as they listened to Barnabas and Paul. They were telling about the miraculous signs and wonders God had done through them among non-Jews.
13. When they finished, James spoke up. "Brothers," he said, "listen to me.
14. Simon Peter has explained to us how God first showed his concern for those who aren't Jews. He chose some of them to be his very own people.
15. The prophets' words agree with that. They say,
16. " 'After this I will return and rebuild David's fallen tent. I will rebuild what was destroyed. I will make it what it used to be.
17. Then the rest of the people can look to the Lord. This means all the non-Jews who belong to me. The Lord says this. He is the one who does these things.' (Amos 9:11,12)
18. The Lord does things that have been known for a long time.
19. "Now here is my opinion. We should not make it hard for the non-Jews who are turning to God.