After his first missionary trip in about 47, Paul came to realize the importance of bringing the Gospel message to Gentiles as well as Jews. He decided it was wise to first get the endorsement of the Jerusalem community of Christians. He could have gone his own way for the Jerusalem Church had no jurisdiction over other Christians, but it enjoyed a prestige greater than other groups and Paul felt it was best to preserve harmony. He went to Jerusalem after his return from Asia Minor, told his story of Gentile conversions to the leaders there, and urged their support. The Jerusalem believers were naturally more conservative than Paul, but after an extended discussion, a compromise was reached. Later in a public conference, the Jerusalem Christians agreed that Paul should be free to preach to the Gentiles and that nothing more should be required of the converts than certain abstinences. It was decided, though, that Palestinian Christians must keep the rules of Jewish law.
Impact: This conference, held in about the year 50, not only set the course for the future of missionary outreach it also signaled Paul’s supremacy over Peter in the leadership of the early church.