Galatians 2:11-14
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS
Why is Galatians 2:11-14 so surprising?
What was Peter doing that led to this conflict between him and Paul?
What did Peter’s separation from the Gentile believers communicate to them, and how does it undermine the gospel message?
Why are Peter’s actions so surprising, given Mark 7:14-19, Acts 10 (especially vs 34-35), and 11:1-18?
Although Peter knew the truth, what were his heart-level motivating reasons for what he did (Acts 2:12), and what does that reveal about the power and influence of our idols?
Can you relate to knowing what you’re supposed to do, but struggling to do it? Explain?
What does Paul call the actions of Peter, Barnabas, and the others (Gal 2:13)?
When Paul is tempted to act in similar ways, with what he loves waging war against what he knows, what does Paul look to for hope and help (cf. Rom 7:21-25, especially 25 and Rom 8:1-5)?
What does it mean that Peter was not "in step with the truth of the gospel" (Galatians 2:14), and what does it teach us about the believer’s daily need for remembering and rehearsing the gospel?
How do walking in step with the gospel (Gal 2:14) and the Spirit (Gal 5:25) complement each other and help us overcome sin?
How does this moment between Paul and Peter visually demonstrate Galatians 6:1-3 and help us walk with our brothers and sisters in Christ?
What does this episode between Paul and Peter reveal about the honesty and truthfulness of the Bible, the Christian life, Christian community, conflict, and confrontation?
How did Peter and Barnabas respond to Paul's confrontation, according to Acts 15:7-12 and 2 Peter 3:15-18, and what do we learn from this?
What did you find most encouraging and most challenging in studying Galatians 2:11-14?
What practical steps can we take this week to ensure our actions consistently align with the truth of the gospel, and what are some ways we can help one another in doing so?
