Why did Paul take Barnabas and Titus with him to Jerusalem in Galatians 2:1? Setting the Stage: Galatians 2:1 “Then after fourteen years I went up again to Jerusalem, accompanied by Barnabas and also taking Titus along.” Paul’s journey was at the Spirit’s prompting (“I went in response to a revelation,” v. 2). Yet he did not travel alone. Barnabas and Titus each served a distinct, God-ordained purpose. Barnabas — Trusted Brother and Bridge Builder • Well-known in Jerusalem (Acts 4:36-37; 9:26-27). His reputation for generosity and encouragement smoothed Paul’s earlier introduction to the apostles. • Native Jew from a Levitical family, yet missionary to Gentiles (Acts 11:22-26; 13:1-3). He embodied the church’s expanding vision. • Credible witness to Paul’s gospel and to the transforming power at work among Gentiles (Acts 15:12). • Partner in bringing famine relief money to Jerusalem (Acts 11:29-30). Their presence together likely signaled that this trip also carried practical aid. Titus — Living Proof of Gentile Freedom in Christ • A full-blooded Greek convert (Galatians 2:3). • Stayed uncircumcised, yet accepted by the apostles—public confirmation that salvation is by grace through faith, not by keeping the Law (Galatians 2:4-5; Acts 15:11). • Trusted delegate in later ministry (2 Corinthians 8:23). His character underscored the fruit of Paul’s teaching. Why These Two Companions? Key Reasons 1. Confirmation of Paul’s Gospel – Barnabas attested to Paul’s message and calling (Acts 9:27). – Titus stood as tangible evidence that Gentiles are saved apart from circumcision (Galatians 2:3-5). 2. Unity of Jewish and Gentile Believers – A respected Jewish believer (Barnabas) and an uncircumcised Gentile (Titus) traveled together, picturing “one new man” in Christ (Ephesians 2:14-16). 3. Protection Against False Accusations – “Every matter must be established by the testimony of two or three witnesses” (Deuteronomy 19:15). These men could corroborate Paul’s account before the Jerusalem leaders. 4. Stewardship of Practical Ministry – If this visit coincides with the famine relief trip (Acts 11), Barnabas’s connection to Jerusalem and Titus’s administrative gifts (2 Corinthians 8:6) would both be invaluable. 5. Strength and Encouragement – Ecclesiastes 4:9-12 teaches the wisdom of traveling with companions. Their presence fortified Paul for frank discussions with the “pillars” (Galatians 2:9). The Bigger Picture of Gospel Unity • Galatians 2 and Acts 15 together reveal God anchoring His church on grace alone. • Barnabas and Titus underscore that the gospel neither erases Jewish heritage nor imposes it on Gentiles. • Their joint presence helped secure the apostles’ agreement: “We should not trouble the Gentiles who are turning to God” (Acts 15:19). Takeaways for Today • The Lord often uses diverse believers side-by-side to validate truth. • Genuine unity rests on the finished work of Christ, not on external rites or cultural pedigree. • Faithful companions strengthen testimony and protect integrity in ministry. |
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