Internal Opposition Allowed

Scott Beyer
06/13/23 - Bulletin

“But when Cephas came to Antioch I opposed him to his face, because he stood condemned.” (Galatians 2:11)

            A unique aspect of Christianity is its history of speaking truth to power.  Apostles were unafraid of opposing other apostles when they were in the wrong.  That’s what the apostle Paul did when the apostle Peter showed favoritism to Jews over Gentiles.  Peter’s behavior was hypocritical, and Paul called him on it.  Why?

            Because the truth is more important than any one individual.  In Jesus’ church, we are all sinners working on drawing closer to Him who is the Truth (see John 14:6).  Christianity, as a movement created by God, values what is right above all else.  We have no leader other than Christ.  Truth reigns in His kingdom, and any leader, whether it be elder, preacher, teacher, or pillar in the church can (and should) be questioned when their behavior or words don’t match how the Bible reads.

Matthew 4:4 #Biblebites

Today’s Reading: Galatians 2:11-21

Questions to ask:

1. How is Paul feeling as he writes today’s passage? What is his mood?
2. What are the central themes in Paul’s preaching and teaching which are being emphasized, or how are the central themes in this epistle being emphasized in today’s reading?
3. How does our reading show Paul’s people skills, especially how he handles conflict?
4. What in this passage would change the lives of the believer(s) being addressed? How does it make me a better disciple?
5. How does this show the “good news” of the gospel? How can I share that with someone else?

This year, #Biblebites are following the life and writings of Paul.  If you would like a copy of the reading schedule, you can view it here: https://eastlandchristians.org/news-events/2023-vision

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