Galatians 2:1-5
Reflect
Paul’s critics had apparently attacked the authority of his gospel, resulting in his need to defend it. He makes it crystal clear that his gospel is God-given; it’s not something he learned from an outside sect or made up. The revelation of Jesus Christ was divinely communicated to him.
The purpose of Paul’s trip to Jerusalem was to clarify his position and the relationship Christians had with the Jewish law. If the leaders in Jerusalem had decided to side with the false teachers who preached the need for Gentile circumcision as a personal validation of faith, then Paul's preaching of a message of grace would have been pointless. Legalism and grace do not mix! However, Paul courageously stood firm in the truth that salvation was by faith alone. The leaders endorsed the gospel Paul preached, yet his authority was still questioned by the Galatians.
The gospel message has been altered by many throughout the centuries. Some have questioned the deity of Jesus, the ontological equality of the Trinity, and much more. Paul sought validation from trustworthy leaders. As God’s people, nothing holds greater importance than staying true to the gospel message that has been affirmed by trustworthy eyewitness accounts and sources.
Apply
How are you currently strengthening and equipping yourself in the truth of God’s Word?
Pastor Nathanael
Pray
- Pray for our childcare team, the children and their families this week. Pray for the interim Director, Angie.
- Pray for our Lead Team Pastor, Terry Okken and his family.
- Pray for our Missions Ministry Assistant, Oleksandr Lushchyk.