but that we write to them to abstain from things polluted by idols, from sexual immorality, from things strangled, and from blood.

1. There are some things that pre-date the Law of Moses. Murder is not wrong because of the commandment not to kill. Murder was wrong in Genesis 4:1-26 when Cain killed his brother.

2. There are some principle rules, cardinal teachings that do not belong to any one dispensation. Murder, Idolatry, fornication, and many other things are not just part of the Law of Moses. They are part of the Law of God. They were in force during the time of Noah and Abraham (before the Law of Moses) and they are still in force in the Christian age (after the Law of Moses was taken away and nailed to the cross).

3. James lists four things that must be mentioned.

1. The pollution of idols

2. Sexual Immorality

3. Things strangled (meat with the blood not drained)

4. Drinking blood

Continues after advertising
Continues after advertising

Old Testament