Ever Present Opposition Galatians 2:4-6.
Dear Holy Nation,
The discussion on the approval for the version of the gospel Paul preached to the gentiles continues.
Stealth (v. 4). Paul says that the reason he had to explain his position at all was because of false brethren who infiltrated the Christian community by stealth, intending to introduce bondage in place of liberty. As we shall see later, this bondage was to a legalistic way of life.
Do not expect false teachers to announce their intentions and lies. They will always come in the name of Christ.
Stand (v. 5). Paul and his companions did not yield any ground to the false teachers. Instead, they stood their ground and insisted on the truth of the gospel. There are truths that cannot be the subject of negotiation. Paul taught that “by grace, you have been saved through faith, and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God; not because of works, lest any man should boast” (Ephesians 2:8-9). That truth cannot be compromised or watered down because the gospel would lose its uniqueness. We must never pretend that we are with people when they do not teach salvation by grace through faith.
Support (v. 6). But the people who mattered – note that even here, Paul implies that no one matters more than another before God. Truth is the truth even when spoken by a child; Paul will demonstrate this fact in verse 11 and following, but to those who seemed to matter, meaning the leaders, Paul’s gospel was approved as was, without additions. What Paul is saying is that his opponents cannot appeal to the apostles, the highest authority of the church, because they already approved his doctrine.
While the approval of men, even leaders is not the chief thing any of us should be seeking, we should wake up and ask if we are on the right track, should we find all major leaders in opposition to our stand.
Your Loving Pastor Chris.