Galatians 2:14
‘But when I saw that they were not straightforward about the truth of the gospel, I said to Cephas in the presence of all, “If you, being a Jew, live like the Gentiles and not like the Jews, how is it that you compel the Gentiles to live like Jews.”‘
The last entry had us focusing on being straightforward with ourselves, God and others. Today, we’ll address being “straightforward with the truth of the gospel”. In the context of the passage, Peter and some others were being partial with their treatment of others. This is contrary to the gospel, as the message that Peter got in the Acts vision was that all people have equal access to the Lord.
I understand that this was a great change, as the Jews were the focus of God’s plan for centuries. They falling back on that model. However, Christ’s death and resurrection was the fountain head that poured the message to everyone. All now had the attention of the Lord.
Paul saw the hypocrisy and pointed it out. He did this publicly, as must have to been a shock to Peter and the rest. We don’t know if he spoke to Peter privatley first. This message was so important that this was necessary to make a public stand.
Peter was being disobedient. We all have our reasons for it. We tend to rationalize things. We tell ourselves that it’s not a problem or if it is, then it’s only temporary.
The Holy Spirit brings issues to our attention that He wants us to address. This is different than our observing all of our lives for areas to improve. This would be endless. We aren’t perfect, nor does God expect us to be. He doesn’t bring up all our issues at once. That would be devastating. That’s the reason some avoid Him, as they think that’s how He works. Not so. He brings up issues every so often.
The Lord offers His grace and patience at these times. He knows we can be too hard on ourselves. He also knows the devil is ready to heap shame upon us when repairs are brought to our attention. That’s not His way. The Lord accompanies these messages with hope and peace. We are encouraged and want to grow.
To further address the manner in which the Lord speaks to us, Romans 8:15,16 gives us some insight; ‘For you have not received a spirit of slavery leading to fear again, but you have received a spirit of adoption as sons by which we cry out, “Abba! Father!” The Spirit Himself testifies with our spirit that we are children of God’. Just as a plant strains upward toward the sun, sour our spirits yearn for Him. Our spirits are unified in purpose. So, His Words to us aren’t condemnation, but hopeful.
Problems arise when we have misunderstandings and predetermined ideas. For example, on Jesus’ last night, He told Peter that he would deny Him. He disagreed. He also knew that Jesus told them to bring swords. In Peter’s mind, he thought he would fight to the death. When the soldiers came, he sprung into action and used the sword to attack. Jesus told him to stop and healed the injured man. Peter’s plan was stopped. He was now in uncharted waters. His idea of allegiance was wrong. He didn’t know what to do.
We also have misunderstandings. Like Peter, they lead to disappointments and mistakes. The longer we walk with the Lord, the more we wait for His lead. He guides and works things out. We don’t put together elaborate plans. These times are supposed to be peaceful. “The mind of the flesh is death, but the mind of the Spirit is life and peace”, (Romans 8:6).
Lord, help us to be straightforward with You and Your ways. When we aren’t, help us be in line with You. Thank You that You patiently guide us.