Galatiansনমুনা

Fourteen years after his calling, Paul travels to Jerusalem again — whether this period refers to his conversion or his first visit there remains unclear. His goal is to coordinate with the leading apostles. He reports to them a revelation (possibly the prophecy of Agabus in Acts 11:28) that predicted a severe famine in Jerusalem.

Whether this visit is the same event as the Apostolic Council described in Acts 15 is debated among scholars. Verse 6 (“they imposed nothing further on me”) seems at first to contradict the recommendations in Acts 15:20. Yet the location, participants, topic, and the fundamental decision (mission to the Gentiles is good) strongly suggest it was the same meeting. It is likely that Paul and Luke simply emphasize different aspects. In the Greek original, verses 6–10 form a single, complex, and often interrupted sentence. One can almost feel Paul’s excitement as he dictates the letter, focusing on the essentials, while Luke’s account is more meticulous.

In any case, it is clear: the mission to the Gentiles happens with the knowledge and approval of the apostles.

Reflection
God’s grace is sufficient. We are not saved by religious deeds or by keeping commandments, but solely by what Jesus has accomplished for us. Yet legalistic thoughts can easily creep back into our faith: “Am I good enough? Am I doing enough?” Where do you risk tying your relationship with God to your performance — instead of resting in Christ’s work?