January 10, 2024
DAILY BIBLE READING – Galatians Chapter 2
1 Then fourteen years after I went up again to Jerusalem with Barnabas, and took Titus with me also.
2 And I went up by revelation, and communicated unto them that gospel which I preach among the Gentiles, but privately to them which were of reputation, lest by any means I should run, or had run, in vain.
3 But neither Titus, who was with me, being a Greek, was compelled to be circumcised:
4 And that because of false brethren unawares brought in, who came in privily to spy out our liberty which we have in Christ Jesus, that they might bring us into bondage:
5 To whom we gave place by subjection, no, not for an hour; that the truth of the gospel might continue with you.
6 But of these who seemed to be somewhat, (whatsoever they were, it maketh no matter to me: God accepteth no man’s person:) for they who seemed to be somewhat in conference added nothing to me:
7 But contrariwise, when they saw that the gospel of the uncircumcision was committed unto me, as the gospel of the circumcision was unto Peter;
8 (For he that wrought effectually in Peter to the apostleship of the circumcision, the same was mighty in me toward the Gentiles:)
9 And when James, Cephas, and John, who seemed to be pillars, perceived the grace that was given unto me, they gave to me and Barnabas the right hands of fellowship; that we should go unto the heathen, and they unto the circumcision.
10 Only they would that we should remember the poor; the same which I also was forward to do.
11 But when Peter was come to Antioch, I withstood him to the face, because he was to be blamed.
12 For before that certain came from James, he did eat with the Gentiles: but when they were come, he withdrew and separated himself, fearing them which were of the circumcision.
13 And the other Jews dissembled likewise with him; insomuch that Barnabas also was carried away with their dissimulation.
14 But when I saw that they walked not uprightly according to the truth of the gospel, I said unto Peter before them all, If thou, being a Jew, livest after the manner of Gentiles, and not as do the Jews, why compellest thou the Gentiles to live as do the Jews?
15 We who are Jews by nature, and not sinners of the Gentiles,
16 Knowing that a man is not justified by the works of the law, but by the faith of Jesus Christ, even we have believed in Jesus Christ, that we might be justified by the faith of Christ, and not by the works of the law: for by the works of the law shall no flesh be justified.
17 But if, while we seek to be justified by Christ, we ourselves also are found sinners, is therefore Christ the minister of sin? God forbid.
18 For if I build again the things which I destroyed, I make myself a transgressor.
19 For I through the law am dead to the law, that I might live unto God.
20 I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me.
21 I do not frustrate the grace of God: for if righteousness come by the law, then Christ is dead in vain.
King James Version. Public Domain
Commentary
Introduction:
Galatians Chapter 2 is a key section in which the Apostle Paul describes his recognition by the other apostles as well as his confrontation with Peter in Antioch. This chapter provides us with a deep insight into the early church’s relationship to the truth of the Gospel and the handling of cultural and legal challenges. It showcases Paul’s determination to defend the freedom in Christ and emphasizes that righteousness comes solely through faith in Jesus Christ. This chapter reminds us of the central message of the Gospel and the importance of steadfastly holding to the truth without compromise.
Commentary:
Paul’s Recognition (Verses 1–10):
Paul describes how, following a revelation, he went to Jerusalem to discuss his Gospel with the leading apostles. He emphasizes that even Titus, a Greek, was not compelled to be circumcised, highlighting the freedom in Christ. Despite the pressure from false brothers, Paul stood firm on the truth of the Gospel, and the leading apostles acknowledged his calling by extending the hand of fellowship to him. This event underscores the unity of the church in the diversity of its callings.
The Confrontation with Peter (Verses 11–14):
In Antioch, Paul publicly challenges Peter because Peter was acting hypocritically out of fear of the Jewish Christian visitors and was distancing himself from the Gentile Christians. Paul makes it clear that such a change in behavior contradicts the truth of the Gospel. This episode highlights the importance of consistency and sincerity in faith.
Justification by Faith (Verses 15–21):
Paul explains that righteousness is not attained through works of the law but through faith in Jesus Christ. He emphasizes that no one is justified by the law, but only through faith. The section culminates in the powerful statement: “I live; yet it is not I who live, but Christ who lives in me” (Verse 20). These words illustrate the new life in Christ that is made possible by God’s grace.
Summary:
Galatians 2 highlights that the truth of the Gospel must be defended without compromise. Paul demonstrates that righteousness comes through faith, not by works of the law. He describes the recognition of his ministry by the other apostles and his bold confrontation with Peter when Peter endangered the unity of the Gospel. This chapter is a powerful reminder that our new life in Christ is not possible through human effort but solely through God’s grace. It calls us to live sincerely, courageously, and in the freedom of the Gospel.
WEEKLY SPIRIT OF PROPHECY READING – Ellen White | The Desire of Ages
Chapter 85—By the Sea Once More
This chapter is based on John 21:1-22.
Read online here
Commentary
Introduction
Chapter 85, based on John 21, describes the renewed encounter of Jesus with His disciples after His resurrection at the Sea of Galilee. In a time of uncertainty and inner struggles, Jesus strengthens the disciples, reminds them of their calling, and reinstates Peter in his ministry. This meeting is marked by forgiveness, love, and the renewal of the divine mission. It is a message of hope and an invitation to align oneself with Christ in trust and obedience.
Commentary
The Miracle of the Catch – Renewal of the Calling:
The fruitless night on the sea symbolizes the limits of human effort without divine guidance. Only through Jesus’ instruction do the disciples’ nets become full. This miracle recalls the first catch at their calling and confirms that Jesus, despite His death and resurrection, continues to care for their needs. It serves as a picture of how God’s work succeeds through faith and collaboration with Him.
The Restoration of Peter:
Jesus asks Peter three times, “Do you love me?” reflecting Peter’s threefold denial. This examination publicly rehabilitates Peter and renews his apostolic ministry. The repeated command to “Feed my lambs” and “Feed my sheep” highlights Peter’s responsibility as a spiritual shepherd. His repentance and humility prepare him to care for both young believers and the broader congregation.
Following and Trust:
Jesus commands Peter to follow Him, regardless of what happens to others. This teaching emphasizes the personal responsibility of each disciple to serve Christ without being distracted by the tasks of others. Jesus makes it clear that everyone has their own path of discipleship rooted in His divine plan.
Summary
Chapter 85 illustrates Jesus’ faithfulness to His disciples and His willingness to forgive and renew them despite their failures. The miracle of the catch reminds the disciples of their calling, while Peter’s threefold reaffirmation of his devotion reinstates him as a shepherd of the church. The call to “Follow me!” is a universal appeal to all Christians to align themselves with Christ in trust and obedience without comparing themselves to others.
WEEKLY SPIRIT OF PROPHECY READING – Ellen White | The Desire of Ages
Chapter 86—Go Teach All Nations
This chapter is based on Matthew 28:16-20.
Read online here
Commentary
Introduction
Chapter 86, based on Jesus’ final instructions, focuses on the Great Commission: “Go and make disciples of all nations” (Matthew 28:19). This is not only a command to the disciples of that time but also an enduring mission for all Christians. It describes the equipping of the disciples with divine authority, the universal reach of the Gospel message, and the responsibility of every believer to proclaim the Good News. This message calls for dedication, collaboration, and faith in God’s work.
Commentary
The Great Commission – Divine Authority and Universal Mission
Jesus began His words with the assurance: “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me” (Matthew 28:18). This assurance demonstrates that the proclamation of the Gospel does not rely on human strength but on His authority. The command “Go into all the world” emphasizes the universal nature of the message: all nations, peoples, and cultures are to hear the Gospel. This global perspective highlights God’s boundless love and desire for salvation.
The Responsibility of Believers
The commission is not only directed at the apostles but also at all believers. The church is called to actively participate in the salvation of souls. This service can take the form of preaching, personal testimony, or practical help. Such work requires dedication, trust in God, and a willingness to serve with humility and love.
Promises and Challenges
Jesus promised to support His followers: “And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age” (Matthew 28:20). This assurance gives believers courage, even in the face of persecution and challenges. The promise of the Holy Spirit as a source of supernatural strength was essential for the disciples and remains a central support for ministry today. However, the Great Commission is also a test of faith, dedication, and trust.
Summary
Chapter 86 demonstrates that Jesus’ Great Commission is the foundation of the Christian church. This mission is comprehensive, requiring faith, dedication, and the active involvement of every believer. The promise of divine support provides strength and courage, while the universal scope of the message reveals God’s all-encompassing love. The success of the mission depends on how deeply believers trust in and collaborate with Jesus in their dedication.
Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/10-01-2025-galatians-chapter-2-believe-his-prophets/
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