Lives of Scripture

Judas, surnamed Barsabbas, was one of the "leading men among the brethren" in the Jerusalem church (Acts 15:22). After the apostles and elders resolved the dispute over whether Gentile converts must be circumcised to keep the law of Moses, they chose Judas and Silas to accompany Paul and Barnabas to Antioch and personally deliver the council's letter, so the Gentile believers would hear the decision confirmed by trusted witnesses rather than by letter alone (15:22-27). Scripture specifically identifies Judas as a prophet: "Judas and Silas, also being prophets themselves, encouraged and strengthened the brethren with a lengthy message" (15:32). After some time, he was sent back to Jerusalem in peace by the believers at Antioch (15:33). Judas's brief but significant role -- entrusted with a delicate diplomatic and pastoral mission at a pivotal moment when the early church was working out what it meant to include Gentiles without requiring the works of the law -- shows the value the Jerusalem church placed on sending respected, gifted men to reinforce unity between the mother church and the growing Gentile mission.