The Purity of the Gospel

Galatians 2:11–14 ESV

11 But when Cephas came to Antioch, I opposed him to his face, because he stood condemned. 12 For before certain men came from James, he was eating with the Gentiles; but when they came he drew back and separated himself, fearing the circumcision party. 13 And the rest of the Jews acted hypocritically along with him, so that even Barnabas was led astray by their hypocrisy. 14 But when I saw that their conduct was not in step with the truth of the gospel, I said to Cephas before them all, “If you, though a Jew, live like a Gentile and not like a Jew, how can you force the Gentiles to live like Jews?”

Introduction:

Last year, Florida teenager Malachi Love-Robinson opened his own medical practice, complete with paid staff, and performed physical exams on patients. He had only just graduated from high school, but took advantage of a legal loophole that frankly seems like it should not exist: for the bargain price of $29.95, you can buy a degree in "divinity" from the Universal Life Church Seminary that entitles you to place the title "Dr" in front of your name.

The gospel deserves a robust defense.

The word “opposed”.

anthistēmi - oppose, to stand against - This word gives us our word antihistamine.

Gospel corruption must be confronted.

Galatians 2:12 ESV

12 For before certain men came from James, he was eating with the Gentiles; but when they came he drew back and separated himself, fearing the circumcision party.

When we live in such a way as to misrepresent the gospel it inevitably misleads others.

Gospel compromise is contagious.

Galatians 2:13 ESV

13 And the rest of the Jews acted hypocritically along with him, so that even Barnabas was led astray by their hypocrisy.

Gospel clarity is critical.

Galatians 2:14 ESV

14 But when I saw that their conduct was not in step with the truth of the gospel, I said to Cephas before them all, “If you, though a Jew, live like a Gentile and not like a Jew, how can you force the Gentiles to live like Jews?”

Question

Does my conduct contradict the gospel?

Paul knew when to stand down and when to stand up.

example Paul says

Romans 14:1 ESV

1 As for the one who is weak in faith, welcome him, but not to quarrel over opinions.

How do I discern when I should stand up or stand down?

Is this issue a biblical matter?

If this isn’t a biblical matter then the issue might matter but it isn’t a matter of fellowship.

Does this issue compromise the clear teaching of the Scriptures?

Does this issue manipulate the gospel?

If it doesn’t compromise the scriptures then we are freed to make concessions.