Galatians 2

February 11, 2010 Lesson 2 of Galatians 2

V1-10.  Why does Paul consider his Jerusalem visit significant?  What issues were at stake, and what forces were confirmed?  Answer:  Paul is showing what James MacArthur called his apostolic commendation.  That is Paul was showing, in v 1-10, that despite not having anyone teach him the word his teaching and preaching were accurate and blessed by God.  Paul also makes mention of false prophets, those requiring Christians to still follow Mosaic Law. 

V11-21.  What were Paul’s motives for his opposition to Peter?  How does he justify the stand which he took?  Try to express in your own words the truth declared in verses 16 to 20.  Answer:  1 Timothy 5: 19 Do not entertain an accusation against an elder unless it is brought by two or three witnesses. 20 Those who sin are to be rebuked publicly, so that the others may take warning. 21 I charge you, in the sight of God and Christ Jesus and the elect angels, to keep these instructions without partiality, and to do nothing out of favoritism.  Paul wanted to point out the hypocrisy of Peter.  Peter behaved one way (living like a gentile) then another (acting like a legalist) when certain people were around.   

What can we learn from this chapter concerning the principles that should govern Christian fellowship, church unity, and ministerial co-operation?  Answer:  The big thing I see here is Justification by Faith.  It is not by our works, but by our faith in Christ that we are justified, pure, and righteous.