The clash between Paul and Peter, the two most influential leaders in the early church, is one of the most dramatic confrontations in the Bible. It took place at the church in Antioch, which was the first predominately Gentile congregation. Peter decided to visit the brethren in Antioch despite the prejudice many Jews felt toward Gentile Christians. Thus, Peter was in Antioch eating and having fellowship with the Gentiles until something took place that resulted in an intense confrontation (Galatians 2:11, 14). Paul described why he rebuked Peter in front of the entire church. Why did this happen?
The Cause of the Clash (v.12)
Peter fellowshipped the Gentiles until some brethren from Jerusalem came to visit. These men were Christians, but prejudiced against Gentiles – even Gentiles who had become Christians. When these men arrived, Peter quit eating and fellowshipping the Gentiles. Note: The word translated “withdrew” means, “a strategic military move.” Peter was more concerned with pleasing the men from Jerusalem, even though he knew how Gentile Christians should be treated. This issue had been settled years earlier, with Peter’s help, at the Jerusalem council, as recorded in Acts 15:5-9. Peter gave in to the pressure of a few narrow-minded Jewish Christians and returned to his old ways. Paul confronted him about it because he saw a biblical principle at stake. Paul wasn’t trying to attack or hurt Peter; he was trying to help his brother.
The Consequences of the Clash (v.13)
Peter’s actions resulted in two negative things happening in the church at Antioch: The Unity of the Church was threatened. Peter knew and believed the principle taught in Galatians 3:28, even though his actions were dividing the church: Jews on one side and Gentiles on the other. Other people being led astray. Barnabas was intimidated into treating the Gentile brethren with a disrespect they did not deserve. Peter was one of the most respected leaders in the early church, but when he got off track, others followed his bad example.
The Conclusion of the Clash (vs. 14, 20)
Paul told Peter, “You don’t find salvation by following Jewish traditions; why are you saying Gentiles should have to?” In verses15-19, Paul repeated and restated this idea several times. In verse 20, Paul summarized it all into one classic verse. Salvation doesn’t come as a result of following traditions. Salvation comes through faith, trust and obedience to Jesus Christ. Thus, Christian living is living-like-Christ. Peter had turned away from this and even led others to do the same. Peter’s influence was negative, while Paul’s was positive and helped resolve a conflict that could have deteriorated into a church split.
In conclusion, it’s easy to criticize Peter for what he did, but we need to examine our own lives. We must live so God can use us as positive influences.
