Galatians 2: 14 (v2+)  "...I said to Cephas in the presence of all..."

Paul publicly rebuked Peter for his hypocrisy concerning his behavior when brethren came from Jerusalem to Antioch.  When Peter was in Antioch among the Gentile brethren, he ate with them, and this food was probably not kosher foods. After his experience with Cornelius (Acts 10-11), Peter understood that food should not be a barrier, and if someone did not eat according to Jewish dietary law that was okay (Acts 10).  However, when the Jewish brethren came from Jerusalem and they were not eating "unclean" food but kosher only, Peter left the Gentile table to eat with the Jewish brethren.  Peter in a moment of weakness and internal conflict reverted back to his tradition and not to his faith.  Paul was not anxious to publicly rebuke Peter, but this necessitated a public confrontation of his hypocrisy!

Earlier Paul had met with the Jewish brothers in Jerusalem and privately discussed the Gospel that he preached (v. 2).  It was important that such doctrinal things were clear and that they were in agreement and did not make a public spectacle.  If we think we might have a disagreement with someone, it is wise to first try to have a private meeting and not a public one.  This approach lowers the tensions and helps others to keep their emotions out of it and to think clearly about truth.  But in this case when there has been such a public demonstration of hypocrisy, then it must be exposed publicly.  The scope of offense determines the scope of confession and confrontation.  It was not a comfortable moment for Peter or Paul, but it had to be done.  When confrontations are needed they should not be avoided! But, this should be done only if there is no other option or way to properly and comprehensively address the problem.  Apparently it was done correctly, Peter was certainly embarrassed by this but he also humbled himself and repented.  This did not become a rift in the church, and it should not have been.  Peter would continue in his work and eventually went to Rome and would die there (1 Peter 5: 12-14).

There are times when we must rebuke someone, and there are times when we need to be rebuked.  Neither are fun, but if done improperly or even avoided, it perpetuates the problem or may even create a larger problem.  Pray for discernment that you might know the right way and time to rebuke a brother, and pray for courage to follow through.  Spiritual maturity has three very important characteristics:  humility, discernment, and courage, and in this order!

In Christ,
Tommy Middleton

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