Unity in the Gospel
Scripture: Galatians 2:9 (ESV)
“And when James and Cephas and John, who seemed to be pillars, perceived the grace that was given to me, they gave me and Barnabas the right hand of fellowship, that we should go to the Gentiles and they to the Jews.”
Reflection:
Paul’s interaction with the apostles—James, Peter, and John—demonstrates the unity of the gospel message. Despite the Judaizers’ attempts to sow division by claiming Paul’s teaching was incomplete, the apostles affirmed Paul’s gospel by extending fellowship. Even when Peter’s actions contradicted the gospel by separating from Gentile believers, Paul confronted him, and Peter repented, showing his commitment to the same truth. This unity reminds us that the gospel transcends personal differences or cultural preferences. This message of salvation through Christ alone that we proclaim today is the same message James, Peter, John, and Paul proclaimed long ago.
Application:
What is the gospel message that James, Peter, and John proclaimed? Think about that message. God the Son took on human flesh for our salvation. He lived so that you could be credited with His righteousness. He died so that you could be forgiven. He rose from the grave for your justification. When you hear someone declare a message contrary to that, reject it wholeheartedly.
Prayer:
Lord Jesus, thank You for uniting Your church through the one true gospel. Forgive me for any ways I’ve contributed to division or failed to uphold Your truth. Give me wisdom to discern false teachings and courage to stand for the gospel. May my words and actions reflect Your love and unity. Amen.