Meaning: The quote "In arriving at a decision in a question of doubt, the apostles in the Acts were guided solely by their sense of the Spirit behind the action, not by any speculations as to consequences which might ensue. And so they found the truth" by Roland Allen, a clergyman, speaks to the idea of making decisions based on faith and spiritual guidance rather than being solely driven by the potential outcomes or consequences. This quote is a reflection on the approach taken by the apostles in the Acts of the Apostles, a book in the New Testament of the Christian Bible, when they were faced with uncertainties and dilemmas.

The Acts of the Apostles, often referred to simply as Acts, chronicles the early history of the Christian church, particularly the actions and teachings of the apostles after the death and resurrection of Jesus. In this context, the apostles were individuals who had been chosen by Jesus and were seen as authoritative figures within the early Christian community. The decisions and actions of the apostles were considered significant and influential in shaping the direction of the Christian movement.

The quote suggests that the apostles relied on their spiritual discernment, or their "sense of the Spirit behind the action," when faced with difficult decisions or uncertainties. Instead of being swayed by concerns about potential consequences or outcomes, they trusted in the guidance of the Holy Spirit to lead them to the truth. This approach emphasizes the importance of faith and spiritual intuition in navigating complex situations, particularly within the context of religious leadership and decision-making.

Roland Allen, the author of the quote, was a prominent Anglican missionary and priest who lived in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. He was known for his writings on missionary work and the nature of the early Christian church. Allen's perspective on the apostles' decision-making process reflects his broader emphasis on the role of the Holy Spirit and spiritual discernment in the life of the church.

The quote can be interpreted as a reminder of the value of spiritual guidance and faith-based decision-making, particularly in situations where the potential outcomes are uncertain or difficult to predict. It suggests that by being attuned to the leading of the Spirit, individuals and communities can arrive at truth and make decisions that are aligned with their spiritual convictions.

Moreover, the quote also highlights the contrast between a faith-centered approach to decision-making and one driven primarily by pragmatic considerations. By emphasizing that the apostles were not guided by "speculations as to consequences which might ensue," the quote underscores the idea that spiritual discernment transcends mere calculation of potential results. This perspective may resonate with individuals who prioritize faith and trust in divine guidance over a purely rational or strategic approach to decision-making.

In summary, Roland Allen's quote reflects on the decision-making approach of the apostles in the Acts of the Apostles, emphasizing their reliance on spiritual discernment rather than speculation about potential consequences. It underscores the value of faith-based decision-making and the guidance of the Holy Spirit in navigating uncertainties and arriving at truth within the context of religious leadership and community life.