Convictions & Conversations
Last night, I dove into a Bible study centered on Galatians 2:11-21, and it really opened my eyes to some important lessons on hypocrisy, pride, and how we’re justified through faith in Christ rather than by the law. It was an enriching experience, so I thought I’d share some of what I learned.
It all starts with Paul confronting Peter (who he calls Cephas). After Paul had just confirmed his preaching with James, Peter, and John—who welcomed him and Barnabas with open arms—Peter made a visit to Antioch, where Paul was. Initially, Peter ate and hung out with the Gentile believers, no problem. But when some of his Jewish friends from Jerusalem came to visit, Peter stopped associating with the Gentiles because he was worried about being judged. This created a rift between the Jewish and Gentile believers, and Paul's frustration with Peter’s hypocrisy led him to confront Peter publicly. It’s easy to see how this behavior could have caused tension in the church. Imagine being one of those Gentile believers who felt abandoned by Peter’s sudden change in attitude—what kind of message would that send?
This public confrontation really bothered Paul because it threatened all the hard work they had done to unite Jews and Gentiles under Christ. Paul understood that Peter’s actions weren’t just about food or customs, but about undermining the true gospel message that everyone—Jew or Gentile—is equal in Christ. Paul’s frustration was justified, and it served as a reminder that hypocrisy, especially from leaders, can do significant damage to the community.
As I studied further, I reflected on how Paul emphasizes that justification comes through faith in Christ, not through observing the law. While following the law is important, it’s not what saves us. Paul’s point is clear: if we could be justified by the law alone, then Christ’s death would have been pointless. That really made me stop and think—sometimes we are tempted to believe that by checking all the boxes and following all the rules, we’re more righteous. But that’s not how it works. Salvation comes through faith and living a life that reflects Christ working in us.
Peter’s mistake—rebuilding the separation between Jews and Gentiles—was a huge step backward. By creating that division again, Peter was rebuilding what he had once helped tear down, which made him a transgressor in Paul’s eyes. It’s a sobering reminder that our actions and attitudes can either build up or tear down the unity in the body of Christ.
Paul’s words about being “crucified with Christ” resonated with me deeply. He talks about dying to his old self, to his flesh, so that he could live fully for God. This isn’t just about following the law or performing good deeds—it’s about surrendering everything to Christ and allowing Him to live through us. Paul’s transformation wasn’t just an external change; it was a complete internal shift from self-reliance to faith in Christ.
I couldn’t help but think about how pride can sneak into our lives, even if we don’t realize it. Whether it’s how we dress or the things we choose to do (or not do), we can sometimes fall into the trap of feeling superior to others. But this passage in Galatians reminds us that we’re all sinners, and no one is better than anyone else. Christ died for all of us, and none of us can achieve righteousness on our own.
Ultimately, this Bible study reminded me that we are justified by faith, not by our own efforts or status. We’re called to live in unity, without divisions based on pride, hypocrisy, or any outward symbols of status. Peter’s misstep, while human, serves as a lesson for all of us to stay in step with the truth of the gospel. We’re all one in Christ, and that’s something we should never forget.
Thanks for reading! I’m so thankful for the clarity this study brought and am excited to continue learning and growing in faith. I hope it encourages you as much as it did me!
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