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.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.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."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.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.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. 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.

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?