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In the previous section, Paul wrote about Peter and the apostles affirming his message. Now he takes it a step further and shows that once he had even corrected Peter. It all happened because of Jewish food laws.
The Old Testament had established what was clean and unclean, but Peter had received a vision from God to show that these laws no longer applied (see Acts 10:9–16). Nevertheless, here Paul remembers a visit from Peter (Cephas) during which Peter changed back to law-keeping because of pressure from some folks coming from Jerusalem.
Peter’s altered behaviour probably took place after the events of Acts 12, where we read of Herod wanting to kill Peter, whom he had imprisoned. Miraculously, Peter was released from prison. He headed to the coast and could easily have sailed north for a visit to Antioch.
Why are Paul and Peter in conflict? This was an era when Jewish nationalism was a growing movement. The gospel’s message that Gentiles could come to God as Gentiles was not popular with the nationalists. So these visitors to Antioch applied pressure to Peter, Barnabas, and others, who then returned to following Jewish dietary laws. Peter knew from his vision that he now had freedom to eat all kinds of food, but he started following the food laws anyway (vv. 12–13). Paul saw the division this caused in the mainly Gentile church at Antioch and stepped in to get the issue resolved. He opposed Peter to his face (vv. 11, 14)!
What was the reason for Paul’s opposition to Peter? Because living the Christian life by trusting in your own law-keeping instead of keeping your eyes on Christ is inconsistent with the gospel. The way we live as Christians must be in line with the truth of the gospel.
By Acts 15 the controversy over the role of the law in salvation and the Christian life was fully resolved by a united church. There we read of Peter, Paul, Barnabas and James all being on the same page: Gentiles must not be expected to live like Jews to follow Jesus.
Reflection
What is there in your life, either good or bad, that is not in line with the truth of the gospel?
Scripture
About this Plan
Paul wrote the book of Galatians to Christians who were tempted to add good works to the gospel. Although we might not want to admit it, adding to the gospel is a great temptation for us too. So be encouraged as Peter Mead takes us through these devotions, be reminded that Christ is everything, and that the gospel is all we need for our lives now in Jesus.
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