We began our overview of Galatians 2, understanding this to be Paul's account of Acts 15, and how he defended his apostleship to the Gentile world. The gospel of the uncircumcision (Gentiles) was committed to him by the Lord Jesus Christ, just as much as the gospel of the circumcision (Jews) was committed to Peter by the Lord, during his earthly ministry. We were able to get only through verse 8, but we covered a lot of ground.
Paul's gospel is available to the entire world, Jew and Gentile alike, apart from the Law. The gospel of the circumcision, which phased out by the end of the first century, was one of salvation through the Jews. The counsel of Jerusalem sought to clarify Paul's ministry in contrast to Peter, James, and John. That is why Paul specifically mentions them in Galatians 2. Three great scriptures that help us to see the gospel for this dispensation of grace is for everyone, both Jew & Gentile:
Romans 4:8-10: Blessed is the man to whom the Lord will not impute sin. Cometh this blessedness then upon the circumcision only (Jews), or upon the uncircumcision also (Gentiles)? for we say that faith was reckoned to Abraham for righteousness. How was it then reckoned? when he was in circumcision, or in uncircumcision? Not in circumcision, but in uncircumcision.
Galatians 6:15: For in Christ Jesus neither circumcision availeth any thing, nor uncircumcision, but a new creature. This is the partner scripture to 2 Corinthians 5:17.
Ephesians 2:14-18: For he is our peace, who hath made both one, and hath broken down the middle wall of partition between us; Having abolished in his flesh the enmity, even the law of commandments contained in ordinances; for to make in himself of twain one new man, so making peace; And that he might reconcile both unto God in one body by the cross, having slain the enmity thereby: And came and preached peace to you which were afar off, and to them that were nigh. For through him we both have access by one Spirit unto the Father.
The elevated place of Israel and the Jews, in particular, has been removed during this dispensation of grace. Romans 11:11-17 chronicles how Israel stumbled, fell, was diminished, cast away, and had branches broken off, paving the way for the gospel of the grace of God to all who believe! All is not lost for Israel! By the end of Romans 11, Paul reveals that the Deliverer, Messiah King Jesus, will come out of Zion and save Israel from their sins. She will be reconciled to her husband – God, who made an everlasting covenant with his chosen people. Romans 11:25-27
We will complete chapter 2 this coming Sunday. That is the plan. Please read Galatians 2 – 6 this week, one chapter a day, in preparation for our study.
