Paul’s Conviction

“Paul’s Conviction”
Galatians 2:1-10

 I. Historical Background
After the conversion, Paul received a call to preach the Gospel to the Gentiles (Acts 9:15-19)
When he went to Jerusalem, the disciples avoided him (v. 26)
God uses the death of Stephen to spread the Gospel to the Gentiles (Acts 11:19 and following)
Barnabas was selected to visit and inspect the church
Barnabas goes to Tarsus and brings Paul into the picture
They embark on their first missionary journey (Acts 13:1-14:28)
Then something alarming happens at the church in Antioch (Acts 15:1 and following)

 II. The Case
Demanded circumcision
Heated argument ensued
Dispatched a delegation

 III. The Confrontation
Met with the leaders in private
Presented the evidence
Summarized their decision
Validated and proclaimed their final decision

 IV. Paul’s Insistence (He Was Called by God)
I received it by revelation
God set me apart from birth
So that I might preach the Gospel to the Gentiles
I did not consult any man
I did not seek to validate my calling from Jerusalem
I went to Jerusalem to get acquainted with Peter
Then finally I received the right hand of fellowship

 V. Lessons
When you live with conviction, you don’t have the need to explain or defend your position all the time. Leave it up to God!
When you need to defend yourself, go directly to the people who have the responsibility as well as the authority to listen and make the judgment. Don’t be passive!
When you defend yourself, be prepared. Know what you are talking about!
 VI. Application
Paul had clear conviction about his calling. How did this influence his life?
Paul was clear about what he believed. How did this influence his relationship with other people?
What have you learned from this important incident that took place?