Christ in Conflict

Galatians 2 is an amazing chapter. In it, we have been presented the truth that it is only through faith in Christ that we are accepted before God.  There is something else which we learn from the interactions in the text; that is the proper way to handle conflict within the church. 

Conflict was brewing when Peter came to Antioch. Paul, rather than mumbling about it, or griping to Barnabas or his other disciples chooses to deal with the problem directly. Paul opposed Peter to his face in dealing with the hypocrisy which Peter was exhibiting. This picture is one of right belief with wrong behavior. In actuality, this is one of the most dramatic and tense episodes in all of the New Testament. A little context will help to explain. 

For centuries the Jews had kept strict dietary laws and other commandments which were intended to keep the Jews and the Gentiles from intermingling and the Jews becoming corrupted by their idolatry and immorality. This is why the religious establishment was shocked when Jesus ate with the tax collectors and sinners in Mark 2:16. For Peter, however, the change took place in Acts 10. Peter had a vision in Acts 10 in which God revealed to him that "God does not show favoritism, but in every nation, the person who fears him and does righteousness is acceptable to Him." 

Fast forward to Galatians 2, Peter has seemingly forsaken this understanding for the sake of appearances. He isn't teaching a contrary message, but he isn't living out the message he was claiming. His actions and his words weren't matching up. 

Enter Paul into the conversation. Paul deals with the problem by reminding Peter of the Truth He already knows. Paul demonstrated obedience to Scripture and love towards Peter by helping him to see the error in is actions. 

We need to strive to do the same. When we see someone who is not living the life that they claim they are we should address the problem directly with love. 

However, before you jump into a confrontation, study to know the truth, study to understand the truth and not just to construct a good argument from Scripture.

It is said that scripture is sharp as a two-edged sword. However, some who use the knife are surgeons and others are butchers.

We should all seek to be surgeons when it comes to using God's Word. 

See ya Sunday!