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Paul recalls a visit to Jerusalem where the leaders recognized his gospel and mission. Even with Titus (a Gentile) present, they did not require circumcision, showing that Gentiles are received by grace, not by law (vv. 1–5). James, Peter (Cephas), and John gave Paul and Barnabas the right hand of fellowship, agreeing that Paul would go to the Gentiles while they focused on the Jews—only asking them to remember the poor (vv. 6–10).
Later in Antioch, Paul opposed Peter for withdrawing from table fellowship with Gentile believers under pressure from the “circumcision” group (vv. 11–14). Such behavior denied the truth of the gospel. Paul states the heart of it: a person is not justified by works of the law but through faith in Jesus Christ (vv. 15–16). Believers have died to the law and now live to God—“I have been crucified with Christ… and the life I now live… I live by faith in the Son of God” (vv. 19–20). If righteousness could come by the law, Christ died for no purpose (v. 21).
🌀 Reflection:
Ask the Lord to expose any ways you lean on performance for acceptance with God. Rest in Christ’s finished work, and live by faith in the One who loved you and gave Himself for you (v. 20).
💬 Mission Challenge:
Encourage a believer who feels like a “second-class Christian.” Share Galatians 2:16 or 2:20 and remind them that in Christ, they are fully accepted by grace.
Click here to return to the contents page for Phase 2.2 — The Savior, His Church, and the Mission.
Just Keith Harris 
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