Fear Of What Others Think | Galatians 2:12

For before certain men came from James, he was eating with the Gentiles; but when they came he drew back and separated himself, fearing the circumcision party. — Galatians 2:12

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For the sake of context, we need to remember that leaders in the church were still figuring out how Jewish believers and Gentile (non-Jewish) believers worshipped together. Even Paul, who was critical in spreading the message, had yet to fully grasp all the challenges. The one we see here is indicative of that.

Here's the situation.

Peter shows up to survey the Gospel work in Antioch and is eating with Gentile believers. But when Jewish believers show up, he then backs off. Conscious or not, Paul is confronting Peter about this behavior because it is double-minded and is having an unintended effect on Gentile believers who have witnessed it and think that Peter thinks differently about them as believers.

Social and psychological fears can lead believers to spiritual hesitations. For example, fears about what we think about ourselves or what we think others believe can instigate uncertainty within us. This fear can be fueled by past experiences or traditions, making the belief and behavior hard to change. And I am sure that is what is at play here for Peter. Peter knows the vision he was given. Peter also knows the ruling they made at the Jerusalem Council. But now Peter needs to live it out in a new community, which causes a hesitation that could adversely affect the understanding of Gentile believers and wrongly direct the behavior of Jewish believers.

At some point, we are all challenged by this. We will be called to bear witness to our faith with people who are not exactly like us. Leaning into the fear and sharing your faith in your marketplace, school, neighborhood, and beyond is key. If you back down from acting in faith and embracing fear, the unintended consequences are both for you and others regarding the freedom of the Gospel message.

So get out there and break through the fear. Share your faith, and share the stories of what God does.

#FaithOverFear #UnityInChrist #CourageousChristianity #BreakingBarriers #LivingOutTheGospel

ASK THIS:

How can we identify and confront our own fears and hesitations when it comes to sharing our faith with others who may be different from us?
In what ways can we actively demonstrate unity and inclusivity in our communities, schools, workplaces, or churches, even when faced with social or cultural pressures to do otherwise?
DO THIS: Push through your fear of sharing your faith.

PRAY THIS: Father, grant me the courage to overcome my fears and boldly share Your love with those around me, regardless of differences or social pressures. Help me to live out the unity and inclusivity of Your Gospel in all aspects of my life, reflecting Your grace and truth to the world. Amen.

PLAY THIS: Fountains.