◄ Galatians 2 ►
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The Council at Jerusalem (Acts 15:5–21) 1Fourteen years later I went up again to Jerusalem, accompanied by Barnabas. I took Titus along also. 2I went in response to a revelation and set before them the gospel that I preach among the Gentiles. But I spoke privately to those recognized as leaders, for fear that I was running or had already run in vain. 3Yet not even Titus, who was with me, was compelled to be circumcised, even though he was a Greek. 4This issue arose because some false brothers had come in under false pretenses to spy on our freedom in Christ Jesus, in order to enslave us. 5We did not give in to them for a moment, so that the truth of the gospel would remain with you. 6But as for the highly esteemed—whatever they were makes no difference to me; God does not show favoritisma—those leaders added nothing to me. 7On the contrary, they saw that I had been entrusted to preach the gospel to the uncircumcised, just as Peter had been to the circumcised. 8For the One who was at work in Peter’s apostleship to the circumcised was also at work in my apostleship to the Gentiles. 9And recognizing the grace that I had been given, James, Cephas,b and John—those reputed to be pillars—gave me and Barnabas the right hand of fellowship, so that we should go to the Gentiles, and they to the circumcised. 10They only asked us to remember the poor, the very thing I was eager to do. Paul Confronts Cephas 11When Cephas came to Antioch, however, I opposed him to his face, because he stood condemned. 12For before certain men came from James, he used to eat with the Gentiles. But when they arrived, he began to draw back and separate himself, for fear of those in the circumcision group. 13The other Jews joined him in his hypocrisy, so that by their hypocrisy even Barnabas was led astray. 14When I saw that they were not walking in line with the truth of the gospel, I said to Cephas in front of them all, “If you, who are a Jew, live like a Gentile and not like a Jew, how can you compel the Gentiles to live like Jews?”c 15We who are Jews by birth and not Gentile “sinners” 16know that a man is not justified by works of the law, but by faith in Jesus Christ. So we, too, have believed in Christ Jesus, that we may be justified by faith in Christ and not by works of the law, because by works of the law no one will be justified. 17But if, while we seek to be justified in Christ, we ourselves are found to be sinners, does that make Christ a minister of sin? Certainly not! 18If I rebuild what I have already torn down, I prove myself to be a lawbreaker. 19For through the law I died to the law so that I might live to God. 20I have been crucified with Christ, and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself up for me. 21I do not set aside the grace of God. For if righteousness comes through the law, then Christ died for nothing. Footnotes: 6 a Literally God does not accept the face of man 9 b That is, Peter; also in verses 11 and 14 14 c Some translators close this quotation after verse 16 or 21. Berean Standard Bible (BSB) printed 2016, 2020, 2022, 2025 by Bible Hub and Berean.Bible. Produced in cooperation with Bible Hub, Discovery Bible, unfoldingWord, Bible Aquifer, OpenBible.com, and the Berean Bible Translation Committee. This text of God's Word has been dedicated to the public domain. Free downloads and unlimited usage available. See also the Berean Literal Bible and Berean Interlinear Bible. Bible Hub Galatians 2 Summary Paul Confronts Cephas Verses 1–5 – Paul’s Second Jerusalem Visit and Defense of Freedom Fourteen years after his first post-conversion visit, Paul returns to Jerusalem with Barnabas and Titus. He presents the gospel he preaches among the Gentiles to the recognized leaders. Despite pressure from false brothers, the apostles refuse to force Titus—a Greek—to be circumcised, confirming the freedom of Gentile believers. Verses 6–10 – Pillars Affirm Paul’s Ministry to Gentiles The leaders add nothing to Paul’s message. Instead, James, Cephas (Peter), and John extend “the right hand of fellowship,” recognizing God’s grace in Paul and assigning him to the Gentiles while they focus on the Jews. They only ask that he remember the poor, a request Paul is already eager to fulfill. Verses 11–14 – Paul Rebukes Peter for Hypocrisy In Antioch, Peter freely eats with Gentile believers until men from James arrive. Fearing their opinion, Peter withdraws, and even Barnabas follows. Paul publicly confronts Peter, exposing the inconsistency of compelling Gentiles to adopt Jewish customs when even Jews are saved apart from those customs. Verses 15–21 – Justification by Faith, Not by Works of Law Paul reminds Peter—and all readers—that Jews and Gentiles alike are “justified by faith in Jesus Christ” (v. 16). He declares, “I have been crucified with Christ” (v. 20); the believer’s old life has ended, replaced by Christ living within. If righteousness could come through the law, Christ’s death would have been pointless (v. 21). Galatians 2 continues Paul's defense of the Gospel's freedom, focusing on justification by faith, not the law. Paul recounts his return to Jerusalem, affirming the Gospel he preaches to the Gentiles. He narrates his confrontation with Peter over hypocrisy in Antioch, underlining that Christians live by faith in Christ, not by the works of the law. Historical Setting: The Apostolic Council • Acts 15 records the broader council in Jerusalem where leaders settled the matter of Gentile salvation without circumcision. Galatians 2 likely overlaps this meeting or its private discussions. • The “false brothers” (v. 4) mirror those described in Acts 15:1 who taught, “Unless you are circumcised...you cannot be saved.” Paul treats their claim as bondage threatening the gospel’s freedom. Key People and Places • Paul: An apostle appointed directly by Christ (Galatians 1:1). His insistence on freedom safeguards the gospel for future generations. • Barnabas: “Son of Encouragement” (Acts 4:36), a Jewish Levite who validates Paul’s ministry. • Titus: A Gentile believer, living proof that faith—not circumcision—makes one part of God’s family (cf. Titus 1:4). • Peter (Cephas): Leader among the Twelve, personally shown Gentile inclusion in Acts 10–11, yet momentarily swayed by peer pressure in Antioch. • Antioch: A thriving mixed church (Acts 11:19–30). Archaeological digs show Roman-period streets and synagogues, illustrating a place where cultures met—perfect soil for tension over dietary laws. • Jerusalem: Spiritual center for Jewish believers; excavations of ritual baths and first-century streets help picture the environment where questions of purity and law swirled. Titus: A Living Exhibit of Grace Paul refuses to let the circumcision party have Titus outwardly marked, underscoring inward faith’s sufficiency. Compare Romans 2:28–29 where true circumcision is “of the heart, by the Spirit.” The Circumcision Controversy • Root Issue: Must Gentiles adopt Mosaic markers to be fully accepted? • Paul’s Answer: “Not for one moment did we yield” (Galatians 2:5). The gospel would be gutted if any human work were attached. • Old Testament Echo: Genesis 17 institutes circumcision, but Genesis 15:6 already states that Abraham “believed the LORD, and it was credited to him as righteousness.” Apostolic Unity and Diversity The handshake in verses 9-10 shows unity of message but diversity of mission. Compare 1 Corinthians 12:4-6—“different kinds of service, but the same Lord.” Paul’s Public Confrontation of Peter • Reason for Going Public: Peter’s action affected others; public error demanded public correction (cf. 1 Timothy 5:20). • Lesson: Even respected leaders can drift; the gospel itself is the standard. • Ripple Effect: Barnabas’ temporary compromise (v. 13) warns that hypocrisy spreads fast. Justification by Faith Explained Verse 16 packs the core truth three times: 1. “a man is not justified by works of the law” 2. “but by faith in Jesus Christ” 3. “because by works of the law no one will be justified” Supporting Scriptures: • Romans 3:28—“a man is justified by faith apart from works of the law.” • Philippians 3:9—Paul counts his own law-keeping “rubbish” to gain Christ. • Isaiah 64:6—human righteousness is “filthy rags.” “I Have Been Crucified with Christ” (v. 20) • Union with Christ: Believers share in His death (Romans 6:6) and life (Colossians 3:3-4). • New Motivation: Life is now “by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself up for me.” Love motivates obedience; law-keeping can never earn it. • Practical Outworking: Self-interest dies; Christ’s interests lead (2 Corinthians 5:14-15). Archaeological Insights • First-century synagogue inscriptions in Antioch reference “God-fearers,” non-Jewish attendees familiar with Jewish customs—precisely the group facing pressure. • Mikva’ot (ritual baths) uncovered near the Temple Mount in Jerusalem highlight the cultural weight of purity laws confronting Gentile believers. • Roman roads linking Antioch to southern Galatia (via Pisidian Antioch, Iconium, Lystra, Derbe) facilitated the spread of Paul’s uncircumcised gospel across Asia Minor. Practical Application for Today’s Believer • Guard the Gospel: Add nothing—no ritual, heritage, or rule—to simple faith in Christ. • Stand Firm in Freedom: Refuse modern “false brothers” who tie acceptance to externals like dietary choices, dress codes, or cultural traditions. • Resist Peer Pressure: Peter’s lapse shows the danger of valuing reputation over truth. Seek accountability that points back to Scripture. • Live the Exchanged Life: Recognize the old self as crucified; allow Christ to guide daily decisions, ambitions, and relationships. Connections to the Old Testament • Habakkuk 2:4—“the righteous will live by faith,” quoted in Galatians 3:11. Paul’s argument in chapter 2 sets the stage. • David’s reliance on mercy over law in Psalm 32:1-2 supports righteousness credited apart from works (Romans 4). • Jeremiah 31:31-34 foretells a new covenant written on hearts, aligning with Spirit-based justification. Links to Other New Testament Passages • Acts 10–11: God shows Peter that no food—or person—is unclean in Christ. • 2 Peter 3:15–16: Peter later endorses Paul’s letters, indicating reconciliation and shared gospel. • Ephesians 2:8-9: Salvation “by grace through faith…not by works.” • Hebrews 13:9: “It is good for the heart to be strengthened by grace, not by foods,” echoing the dietary tension behind Peter’s withdrawal. Conclusion Galatians 2 stands as a watershed in church history, preserving the gospel’s purity and establishing that every believer, Jew or Gentile, lives by faith in the Son of God who loved us and gave Himself for us. Connections to Additional Scriptures Romans 3:28 For we maintain that a man is justified by faith apart from works of the law. Ephesians 2:8-9 For it is by grace you have been saved through faith, and this not from yourselves; it is the gift of God, not by works, so that no one can boast. Philippians 3:9 And be found in Him, not having my own righteousness from the law, but that which is through faith in Christ—the righteousness from God on the basis of faith. Teaching Points Paul's Defense of the Gospel Paul recounts his journey to Jerusalem to ensure that the gospel he preached was not in vain (Galatians 2:2). He emphasizes that the gospel he received was directly from Christ and not from human sources. The Issue of Circumcision Paul addresses the controversy over circumcision, stating that Titus, a Greek, was not compelled to be circumcised (Galatians 2:3). This highlights the freedom from the law that believers have in Christ. Confrontation with Peter Paul recounts his confrontation with Peter in Antioch, where Peter's actions contradicted the truth of the gospel (Galatians 2:11-14). This incident underscores the importance of living consistently with the gospel message. Justification by Faith Paul declares that a person is not justified by works of the law but through faith in Jesus Christ (Galatians 2:16). This is a foundational truth of the Christian faith, emphasizing grace over legalism. Crucified with Christ Paul shares his personal testimony of being crucified with Christ, stating, I no longer live, but Christ lives in me (Galatians 2:20). This illustrates the transformative power of faith in Christ. Practical Applications Embrace Freedom in Christ Recognize that salvation is a gift of grace, not something earned by following the law. Live in the freedom that Christ provides. Stand Firm in the Gospel Be vigilant against any teachings or practices that add to the gospel of grace. Uphold the truth of justification by faith alone. Live Consistently with Your Faith Ensure that your actions align with the gospel message. Avoid hypocrisy and be a true reflection of Christ in your daily life. Identify with Christ's Sacrifice Reflect on what it means to be crucified with Christ and allow His life to be evident in yours. People 1. Paul Paul is the apostle writing the letter to the Galatians. In Galatians 2, he recounts his visit to Jerusalem and his confrontation with Peter. The Greek name "Παῦλος" (Paulos) is used, which is a Roman name meaning "small" or "humble." 2. Barnabas Barnabas is a fellow worker and companion of Paul. He is mentioned as accompanying Paul to Jerusalem. His name in Greek, "Βαρνάβας" (Barnabas), means "son of encouragement." 3. Titus Titus is a Greek believer who accompanied Paul and Barnabas to Jerusalem. He is significant in the discussion about circumcision, as he was not compelled to be circumcised. The Greek name "Τίτος" (Titos) is used. 4. James James is referred to as one of the pillars of the church in Jerusalem. He is likely James, the brother of Jesus, who played a leading role in the early church. The Greek name "Ἰάκωβος" (Iakobos) is used, which is equivalent to the Hebrew name "Ya'akov." 5. Cephas (Peter) Cephas, also known as Peter, is another apostle and a key figure in the early church. Paul recounts a confrontation with him over his behavior towards Gentile believers. "Κηφᾶς" (Kephas) is the Aramaic name meaning "rock," while "Πέτρος" (Petros) is the Greek equivalent. 6. John John is mentioned alongside James and Cephas as a pillar of the church. He is traditionally understood to be John the Apostle, one of the original twelve disciples. The Greek name "Ἰωάννης" (Ioannes) is used, derived from the Hebrew "Yochanan," meaning "Yahweh is gracious." 7. False Brothers These are individuals who infiltrated the early Christian community to spy on the freedom that believers had in Christ and to bring them into bondage. The Greek term "ψευδάδελφοι" (pseudadelphoi) is used, meaning "false brothers." 8. Gentiles While not a specific person, the term refers to non-Jewish people who were part of the early Christian community. The Greek word "ἔθνη" (ethne) is used, which is often translated as "nations" or "Gentiles." Places 1. Jerusalem In Galatians 2:1, Paul refers to his journey to Jerusalem: "Fourteen years later I went up again to Jerusalem, accompanied by Barnabas. I took Titus along also." This visit is significant as it relates to the early church's discussions on Gentile inclusion and the gospel's authenticity. The Greek term for Jerusalem is Ἰερουσαλήμ (Ierousalēm), which is consistent with its usage throughout the New Testament. 2. Antioch In Galatians 2:11, Paul recounts an incident in Antioch: "When Cephas came to Antioch, however, I opposed him to his face, because he stood to be condemned." Antioch was an important center for early Christianity and a place where Jewish and Gentile believers interacted. The Greek name for Antioch is Ἀντιόχεια (Antiocheia), reflecting its historical and cultural significance as a hub of early Christian activity. Events 1. Paul's Visit to Jerusalem (Galatians 2:1-2) Paul describes his journey to Jerusalem after fourteen years, accompanied by Barnabas and Titus. He went in response to a revelation and presented the gospel he preached among the Gentiles to the leaders privately, to ensure his efforts were not in vain. The Greek word for "revelation" (ἀποκάλυψις, apokalypsis) indicates a divine disclosure. 2. Titus Not Compelled to be Circumcised (Galatians 2:3) Despite being a Greek, Titus was not compelled to undergo circumcision. This event underscores the early church's struggle with the Judaizers, who insisted on adherence to Jewish law for salvation. 3. False Brothers and the Preservation of the Gospel (Galatians 2:4-5) Paul mentions "false brothers" who infiltrated the church to spy on their freedom in Christ and bring them into bondage. Paul and his companions did not yield to them, preserving the truth of the gospel. The term "bondage" (δουλεία, douleia) refers to the legalistic adherence to the Mosaic Law. 4. Recognition of Paul's Apostleship (Galatians 2:6-9) The leaders in Jerusalem, including James, Cephas (Peter), and John, recognized Paul's apostleship to the Gentiles. They extended the right hand of fellowship to Paul and Barnabas, affirming their mission. The Greek term for "recognized" (γινώσκω, ginōskō) implies a deep understanding or acknowledgment. 5. Agreement to Remember the Poor (Galatians 2:10) The only request from the Jerusalem leaders was that Paul and Barnabas remember the poor, which Paul was eager to do. This reflects the early church's commitment to social justice and care for the needy. 6. Paul Confronts Peter in Antioch (Galatians 2:11-14) Paul recounts confronting Peter in Antioch for withdrawing from eating with Gentiles due to fear of the circumcision group. Paul accused Peter of hypocrisy, as his actions contradicted the gospel's truth. The Greek word for "hypocrisy" (ὑπόκρισις, hypokrisis) denotes acting under a false pretense. 7. Justification by Faith (Galatians 2:15-16) Paul emphasizes that a person is not justified by works of the law but through faith in Jesus Christ. This foundational doctrine highlights the Greek term "δικαιόω" (dikaioō), meaning to declare righteous. 8. Living by Faith in the Son of God (Galatians 2:17-21) Paul explains that through the law, he died to the law so that he might live for God. He declares, "I have been crucified with Christ," emphasizing a life lived by faith in the Son of God. The Greek phrase "συνεσταύρωμαι" (synestaurōmai) means "I have been crucified with," indicating a profound union with Christ in His death and resurrection. Lessons from Galatians 2 1. Justification by Faith, Not Works In Galatians 2, Paul emphasizes that we are justified by faith in Jesus Christ, not by the works of the law. As he states, "a man is not justified by works of the law, but by faith in Jesus Christ" (Galatians 2:16). This is a liberating truth that reminds us that our salvation is a gift from God, not something we can earn. Embrace this freedom and let it guide your daily walk with Christ. 2. Unity in the Gospel Paul's confrontation with Peter in Galatians 2 highlights the importance of unity in the Gospel. Despite their differences, Paul and Peter were united in their mission to spread the good news. "For God, who was at work in Peter’s apostleship to the circumcised, was also at work in my apostleship to the Gentiles" (Galatians 2:8). Let this be a reminder to work together with fellow believers, focusing on what unites us rather than what divides us. 3. Stand Firm in Your Convictions Paul's boldness in addressing Peter's hypocrisy teaches us to stand firm in our convictions. He did not shy away from speaking the truth, even when it was uncomfortable. "When I saw that they were not walking in line with the truth of the gospel, I said to Cephas in front of them all" (Galatians 2:14). Be courageous in standing up for what is right, guided by the truth of Scripture. 4. The Danger of Hypocrisy Peter's actions in Galatians 2 serve as a cautionary tale about the danger of hypocrisy. By withdrawing from the Gentiles, he contradicted the Gospel message. "But when Cephas came to Antioch, I opposed him to his face, because he stood condemned" (Galatians 2:11). Let us strive to live authentically, ensuring our actions align with our beliefs. 5. Living by Faith in the Son of God Paul's declaration in Galatians 2:20 is a powerful reminder of our identity in Christ: "I have been crucified with Christ, and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me." This verse calls us to live by faith, allowing Christ to work through us. Embrace this new life and let it transform your daily actions and decisions. 6. The Grace of God is Sufficient Paul underscores the sufficiency of God's grace, stating, "I do not set aside the grace of God, for if righteousness comes through the law, Christ died for nothing" (Galatians 2:21). This is a profound reminder that God's grace is all we need. Trust in His grace to sustain you, rather than relying on your own efforts. 7. The Importance of Accountability Paul's interaction with Peter highlights the importance of accountability among believers. By holding each other accountable, we can help one another stay true to the Gospel. "But when I saw that they were not walking in line with the truth of the gospel" (Galatians 2:14). Seek out relationships that encourage growth and accountability in your faith journey. 8. Freedom from the Law Galatians 2 teaches us about the freedom we have in Christ, free from the constraints of the law. "We know that a man is not justified by works of the law" (Galatians 2:16). This freedom allows us to live joyfully and confidently, knowing that our salvation is secure in Christ. 9. The Role of Faith in Community Paul's letter to the Galatians emphasizes the role of faith in building a strong community. By focusing on faith rather than legalistic practices, we can foster a supportive and loving environment. "We too have believed in Christ Jesus, that we may be justified by faith" (Galatians 2:16). Let your faith be the foundation of your relationships with others. 10. Christ's Sacrifice is Central Finally, Galatians 2 reminds us that Christ's sacrifice is central to our faith. "I do not set aside the grace of God, for if righteousness comes through the law, Christ died for nothing" (Galatians 2:21). Keep the cross at the center of your life, allowing it to guide your thoughts, actions, and interactions with others. Topics 1. Paul’s Visit to Jerusalem (Galatians 2:1-2) Paul describes his journey to Jerusalem after fourteen years, accompanied by Barnabas and Titus. He went in response to a revelation to ensure that his preaching to the Gentiles was not in vain. The Greek word "ἀποκάλυψις" (apokalypsis) is used for "revelation," indicating a divine disclosure. 2. The Issue of Circumcision (Galatians 2:3-5) Titus, a Greek, was not compelled to be circumcised, highlighting the tension between Jewish customs and Gentile believers. Paul emphasizes the importance of preserving the truth of the gospel. The Greek term "ἀλήθεια" (aletheia) means "truth," underscoring the gospel's authenticity. 3. The Recognition of Paul’s Ministry (Galatians 2:6-10) The leaders in Jerusalem, recognizing the grace given to Paul, did not add to his message. They acknowledged his mission to the Gentiles, just as Peter was to the Jews. The Greek word "χάρις" (charis) for "grace" signifies unmerited favor, crucial to Paul's message. 4. Paul Opposes Peter (Galatians 2:11-14) Paul recounts confronting Peter in Antioch for withdrawing from Gentile believers due to pressure from certain Jewish Christians. This incident highlights the struggle between Jewish law and Christian freedom. The Greek "ὑπόκρισις" (hypokrisis) is used for "hypocrisy," indicating insincerity in Peter's actions. 5. Justification by Faith (Galatians 2:15-16) Paul asserts that a person is justified by faith in Jesus Christ, not by works of the law. This foundational Christian doctrine emphasizes faith over legalistic adherence. The Greek "δικαιόω" (dikaioō) means "to justify," reflecting a legal declaration of righteousness. 6. Living by Faith in Christ (Galatians 2:17-21) Paul explains that through the law, he died to the law so that he might live for God. He emphasizes being crucified with Christ and living by faith in the Son of God. The Greek "πίστις" (pistis) for "faith" is central, denoting trust and belief in Christ's redemptive work. Themes 1. Defense of the Gospel Paul emphasizes the importance of preserving the truth of the Gospel. He recounts his journey to Jerusalem to ensure that the message he preached among the Gentiles was not in vain (Galatians 2:2). The Greek word "euangelion" (εὐαγγέλιον) underscores the "good news" that Paul is committed to defending. 2. Unity in the Church The chapter highlights the unity between Jewish and Gentile believers. Paul describes how the leaders in Jerusalem, including James, Cephas (Peter), and John, extended the "right hand of fellowship" to him and Barnabas, recognizing their mission to the Gentiles (Galatians 2:9). The Greek term "koinonia" (κοινωνία) reflects this fellowship and partnership. 3. Justification by Faith A central theme is the doctrine of justification by faith, not by works of the law. Paul states, "a man is not justified by works of the law, but by faith in Jesus Christ" (Galatians 2:16). The Greek word "dikaioō" (δικαιόω) means to declare righteous, emphasizing faith as the means of justification. 4. Confrontation of Hypocrisy Paul recounts his confrontation with Peter in Antioch for withdrawing from Gentile believers out of fear of the circumcision group (Galatians 2:11-14). This incident underscores the theme of living consistently with the truth of the Gospel. The Greek word "hypokrisis" (ὑπόκρισις) is related to acting in a way that contradicts one's beliefs. 5. Living by Faith in Christ Paul articulates the transformative power of faith in Christ, stating, "I have been crucified with Christ, and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me" (Galatians 2:20). This theme highlights the believer's new identity and life through faith. The Greek term "zōē" (ζωή) refers to the spiritual life that believers have in Christ. 6. Grace versus Law The chapter concludes with a strong affirmation of grace over the law. Paul asserts, "if righteousness comes through the law, Christ died for nothing" (Galatians 2:21). The Greek word "charis" (χάρις) signifies the unmerited favor of God, contrasting with the law's inability to justify. Prayer Points Thanksgiving for Grace Thank God for the gift of salvation through faith in Jesus Christ and the freedom from the law. Strength to Stand Firm Pray for the courage to stand firm in the truth of the gospel and resist any form of legalism. Consistency in Faith Ask God to help you live a life that is consistent with the gospel, reflecting Christ in all you do. Deeper Understanding of Justification Seek a deeper understanding of what it means to be justified by faith and how it impacts your daily life. Answering Tough Questions 1. Galatians 2:2 – How can we verify Paul’s claim of going “by revelation” to meet the apostles when there is no concrete external evidence for such an event? 2. Galatians 2:7 – Why does Paul assert distinct missions for himself and Peter when Acts describes overlapping evangelistic activities, creating a potential contradiction? 3. Galatians 2:11 – What does the lack of a recorded response from Peter after Paul’s public rebuke suggest about possible missing historical details or inconsistencies in the text? 4. Galatians 2:16 – How do we reconcile Paul’s teaching on faith alone for justification with James 2:24, which emphasizes works, without dismissing one or the other? 5. Galatians 2:20 – Does Paul’s claim of being “crucified with Christ” indicate a mystical experience unsupported by historical evidence, or is this purely metaphorical language? Bible Study Discussion Questions 1. What does Paul's return to Jerusalem reveal about his dedication to the Gospel? 2. How does Peter's hypocrisy in Antioch illustrate the struggle between cultural pressures and the truth of the Gospel? 3. How does Paul's confrontation with Peter demonstrate his commitment to Gospel truth? 4. What does Paul's argument for justification by faith mean for our understanding of salvation? 5. How does Paul's description of living "by faith in the Son of God" apply to your personal faith journey? 6. How does this chapter deepen your understanding of the concept of "freedom in Christ"? 7. How does the conflict in Antioch inform our understanding of the early church's struggles? 8. How can we follow Paul's example to confront hypocrisy in our Christian communities today? 9. What is the significance of Paul's statement, "If righteousness could be gained through the law, Christ died for nothing"? 10. How does Paul's insistence on remembering the poor apply to our Christian responsibility towards social justice today? 11. How does the confrontation between Paul and Peter illuminate the tension between Jewish and Gentile Christians? 12. How does this chapter challenge us to align our actions with the truth of the Gospel? 13. How does the acceptance of Paul's ministry by the Jerusalem leaders validate his apostleship? 14. In what ways does the division in Antioch serve as a reminder of the human tendencies that can affect even spiritual leaders? 15. How does the phrase "not I, but Christ lives in me" inspire your understanding of Christian identity? 16. How can we reconcile cultural traditions with the universality of the Gospel message in our context? 17. How does this chapter speak to the importance of addressing and resolving conflicts within the church? 18. In what ways does Paul's defense of the Gospel challenge you to deepen your understanding of faith and works? 19. How does the situation in Antioch relate to present day conflicts within the church over doctrinal issues? 20. How can we ensure that our practices and beliefs align with the principle of justification by faith as opposed to works of the law? Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions