Galatiansනියැදිය

Despite the clear decision at the Apostolic Council, the false teachers — the so-called Judaizers — do not stop. Apparently, they travel through the churches with the specific goal of pressuring Christians to follow the Jewish law, especially circumcision. They act with such confidence and authority that even Peter, one of the leading apostles, wavers. This was more than a misunderstanding — it was a betrayal of the gospel.

Paul responds decisively. He confronts Peter publicly. For the issue at stake is not a minor point, but the core of the faith: are we made righteous by works of the law, or by faith in Jesus Christ alone?

This episode shows that even the greatest spiritual role models are not infallible. All the more important, then, that we understand and can articulate our own faith. In verse 20, Paul sums up the gospel in a single, powerful sentence: It is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me. Our salvation does not depend on what we do, but on the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus — in us and for us.

Reflection
Where in your life do you feel pressure to conform to the judgment or opinion of others? Where are you at risk of watering down the gospel out of fear of conflict? Christ lives in you — let him guide you, not people.