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Introduction:
The Book of Galatians is a letter written by the Apostle Paul to the churches in Galatia. This letter is one of the most important letters in the New Testament as it presents the core message of the Gospel – salvation by faith in Jesus Christ. Chapter 2 of the book is a continuation of the message of salvation by faith alone. In this article, we will take a closer look at Galatians 2 ESV and understand the message it conveys.
Background:
Before we dive into the chapter, it’s essential to understand the background of the letter. The churches in Galatia were being misled by false teachers who were preaching a gospel that was contrary to what Paul had preached to them. These teachers were Judaizers who believed that salvation was not just by faith, but also by following the Jewish laws and traditions. This message was confusing the believers in Galatia, and Paul had to address this issue urgently.
Paul’s Visit to Jerusalem:
In the first ten verses of chapter 2, Paul talks about his visit to Jerusalem. He says that he went there to present the Gospel he had been preaching to the Gentiles to the apostles. He did this to make sure that the message he had been preaching was in line with what other apostles were preaching. He also talks about how some false brethren came in secretly to spy out their freedom in Christ and bring them back under the law.
Justification by Faith:
In verses 11-21, Paul talks about how he confronted Peter for his hypocrisy. Peter was eating with the Gentiles, but when some Jews came to visit, he withdrew and separated himself from the Gentiles. Paul rebuked Peter for this behavior and reminded him that justification is not by works of the law but by faith in Christ. He says that if righteousness could be obtained by keeping the law, then Christ died in vain.
Crucified with Christ:
In the last few verses of the chapter, Paul talks about how he has been crucified with Christ and that he no longer lives, but Christ lives in him. He says that the life he now lives in the flesh, he lives by faith in the Son of God, who loved him and gave himself for him.
Conclusion:
Galatians 2 ESV is a crucial chapter in the Book of Galatians as it presents the message of salvation by faith alone. Paul emphasizes that justification is not by works of the law but by faith in Christ. He also talks about the freedom we have in Christ and how we should not allow anyone to bring us back under the law. As we read this chapter, we must remember that the message of the Gospel is the same today as it was when Paul wrote this letter. We are saved by grace through faith in Jesus Christ alone.
