How does Paul's approach in Galatians 2:2 relate to Acts 15:1-2? Setting the Scene in Antioch and Jerusalem • Acts 15:1-2: “Then some men came down from Judea and began to teach the brothers, ‘Unless you are circumcised according to the custom of Moses, you cannot be saved.’ And after Paul and Barnabas had engaged them in no small debate and dispute, the brothers appointed Paul and Barnabas, along with some of their own, to go up to the apostles and elders in Jerusalem concerning this question.” • Galatians 2:2: “I went up in response to a revelation and set before them the gospel that I preach among the Gentiles. I did so privately to those esteemed as leaders, for fear that I might be running or had run my race in vain.” What Prompted Paul’s Trip? • Acts 15 emphasizes an external conflict—Judaizers troubling the church. • Galatians 2 reveals an internal prompting—“a revelation.” • Together they show God guiding Paul through both practical church needs (Acts) and direct divine insight (Gal). Public Dispute, Private Clarification • Acts 15:1-2 portrays open, heated debate in Antioch—truth must be defended publicly. • Galatians 2:2 highlights a private presentation in Jerusalem—truth must also be clarified respectfully with trusted leaders. • Paul balances bold confrontation with humble consultation. Key Parallels between the Passages • Same travelers: Paul, Barnabas, and certain others (Acts 15:2; Galatians 2:1). • Same location: Jerusalem, center of apostolic authority. • Same issue: Is circumcision required for salvation? • Same goal: Preserve the “truth of the gospel” (Galatians 2:5) and the unity of the church (Acts 15:6-11). Why the Private Meeting Matters • Protects weaker believers from confusion (Romans 14:19). • Honors leadership without compromising truth (1 Timothy 5:17). • Ensures the gospel message remains consistent everywhere (1 Corinthians 15:11). Paul’s Method in Broader Scriptural Context • Spirit-led obedience: Acts 13:2-4; Galatians 5:16. • Willingness to defend doctrine: Philippians 1:16-17; Jude 3. • Desire for unity, not uniformity: Ephesians 4:3-6. • Accountability to the wider body: Proverbs 11:14; Hebrews 13:17. Lessons We Can Apply • Seek God’s direction first, then address problems directly. • Pair public defense of truth with private, respectful dialogue. • Hold fast to salvation by grace through faith alone (Ephesians 2:8-9). • Value both the mission field and the counsel of trusted leaders. |
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