Galatians 2

Literal Translation and Commentary: Galatians 2:1 ~ 2

2:1 "Then after fourteen years I went up again to Jerusalem with Barnabas, taking Titus along with me.
2:2 I went up because of a revelation (ἀποκάλυψις, apokalypsis) and set before them (though privately before those who seemed influential) the gospel that I proclaim among the Gentiles, in order to make sure I was not running or had not run in vain."

Commentary

1. Understanding "Apokalypsis" (ἀποκάλυψις)

The Greek word ἀποκάλυψις means "revelation," "unveiling," or "disclosure."

• Etymology: Derived from ἀπο- (apo-, "away from") and καλύπτω (kalypto, "to cover or conceal"), the term conveys the idea of removing a covering to reveal what was previously hidden.

Usage in the New Testament

• Revelation of God’s Truth:

  • Galatians 1:12, 2:2 – Paul emphasizes that his gospel was received through divine revelation, not human instruction.

• Jesus Christ’s Appearing:

  • 1 Corinthians 1:7; 1 Peter 1:7 – Refers to the future manifestation of Jesus Christ.

• God’s Redemptive Plan:

  • Romans 16:25 – The unveiling of God’s mystery regarding salvation.

• Title of the Book of Revelation:

  • Revelation 1:1 (Yeshua Literal Translation):
    "The revelation (ἀποκάλυψις) of Jesus Christ, which God gave Him to show His servants the things that must soon take place."

Paul’s phrase "I went up because of a revelation" underscores his divine commissioning, reinforcing his apostleship and the authenticity of his mission.

2. Private Presentation of the Gospel

Paul chose to present the gospel privately to the influential leaders in Jerusalem (κατ᾽ ἰδίαν, kat’ idian, "privately"). This approach demonstrates:

• Wisdom in Conflict Resolution: By avoiding public disputes, Paul sought to prevent unnecessary division and uphold unity within the church.

• Humility and Strategy: Paul prioritized clarity and agreement on the gospel message with key leaders to ensure his ministry efforts were not undermined.

Proverbs 11:14

"Where there is no counsel, the people fall; but in the multitude of counselors there is safety."
This reflects the importance of strategic and collaborative decision-making.

3. Historical Context: The Jerusalem Council

Paul’s private meeting with church leaders aligns with the events of Acts 15:2, where he and Barnabas discussed the inclusion of Gentiles in the faith:
"When Paul and Barnabas had no small dissension and debate with them... they decided to go up to Jerusalem to discuss this question with the apostles and the elders."

Paul’s actions ensured:

• Validation of His Ministry: His gospel to the Gentiles was consistent with the message of the apostles.

• Avoidance of Division: He sought to bridge understanding between Jewish and Gentile believers.

4. Theological Significance

Paul’s visit highlights the interplay between divine revelation and communal discernment:

• His reliance on apokalypsis underscores the divine origin of his mission.

• His private discussions with leaders demonstrate the importance of unity and accountability within the church.

This balance between divine guidance and collective discernment serves as a model for church leadership today.

Conclusion

Paul’s decision to go to Jerusalem "because of a revelation" underscores his divine calling and his commitment to the gospel. His private presentation of the gospel reflects wisdom, humility, and a desire for unity within the church. These actions exemplify how divine direction and human collaboration work together to advance God’s mission.

Literal Translation and Commentary: Galatians 2:3 ~ 4

2:3 "But not even Titus, who was with me, was compelled to be circumcised, though he was a Greek.
2:4 Yet because of false brothers secretly brought in—who came in secretly to spy out our freedom that we have in Christ Jesus, so that they might bring us into slavery—"

Commentary

1. Claiming to preach the gospel based on God's Word, yet demanding that Gentiles be circumcised, is completely false and contrary to the Scriptures.
   Distorting the true meaning of the Bible while proclaiming the gospel is clear evidence that such individuals have not received the Holy Spirit from God. We must be vigilant against those who spread such false doctrines.
   
   

2. Titus and Circumcision
   Paul emphasizes that Titus, a Greek companion, was not forced to undergo circumcision. This decision underscores that salvation is by grace through faith, not through observing Jewish customs or laws.
   
   

3. False Brothers
   The "false brothers" infiltrated the Christian community to observe and undermine the freedom believers have in Christ. Their ultimate goal was to impose legalistic practices and enslave believers to a system of bondage.
   
   

4. Related Scriptures
   
   

   • Psalm 1:1-2
     "Blessed is the one who does not walk in step with the wicked or stand in the way that sinners take or sit in the company of mockers, but whose delight is in the law of the LORD, and who meditates on His law day and night."

   • Leviticus 19:37
     "Keep all My decrees and all My laws and follow them. I am the LORD."

   • Acts 15:10
     "Now then, why do you try to test God by putting on the necks of Gentiles a yoke that neither we nor our ancestors have been able to bear?"

Summary

Paul’s defense of Titus not being circumcised affirms the truth of the gospel: salvation is by faith alone, without the need for additional rituals or customs. Believers must discern false teachings and remain steadfast in the freedom Christ has provided. Adherence to God’s Word and vigilance against legalistic distortions are essential responsibilities of every believer.

Literal Translation and Commentary: Galatians 2:5 ~ 6

2:5 "To them we did not yield in submission even for a moment, so that the truth of the gospel might be preserved for you.
2:6 And from those who seemed to be influential (what they were makes no difference to me; God shows no partiality)—those, I say, who seemed influential added nothing to me."

Commentary

1. Paul’s Firm Stand for the Gospel
   Paul asserts that he did not submit to the false brothers, even temporarily, to ensure the truth of the gospel remained unaltered and accessible to all believers. His refusal to compromise underscores his unwavering commitment to the Word of God and the purity of the gospel.
   
   

2. God’s Impartiality and Paul’s Independence
   Paul notes that even the prominent leaders in the Jerusalem church added nothing to his gospel. This reflects the divine origin of his teachings and God’s impartiality, as He does not regard human status or external appearances.
   
   

3. Paul’s Deep Understanding of the Scriptures
   Paul, as a Pharisee educated under Gamaliel, was already well-versed in the Hebrew Scriptures. After his encounter with Jesus, the veil was lifted, enabling him to understand the gospel’s fulfillment in the Torah and the Prophets.
   
   

   • 2 Corinthians 3:14-16 (Yeshua Literal Translation):
     "But their minds were hardened. For to this day, when the old covenant is read, the same veil remains, unlifted, because only in Christ is it taken away. Yet when anyone turns to the Lord, the veil is removed."

Paul’s Scriptural Expertise

Paul’s mastery of the Torah is evident in the following passages:

• Acts 22:3 (Yeshua Literal Translation):
  "I am a Jew, born in Tarsus of Cilicia, but brought up in this city, educated at the feet of Gamaliel according to the strictness of the Torah of our ancestors, being zealous for God, just as all of you are today."

• Philippians 3:5-6 (Yeshua Literal Translation):
  "Circumcised on the eighth day, of the people of Israel, of the tribe of Benjamin, a Hebrew of Hebrews; as to the Torah, a Pharisee; as to zeal, a persecutor of the church; as to righteousness under the Torah, blameless."

Summary

Paul’s refusal to compromise with false teachings reflects his dedication to preserving the gospel in its purest form. His extensive knowledge of the Torah and the Prophets, combined with the unveiling of truth through Christ, equipped him to faithfully proclaim the Word of God. The gospel Paul preached does not negate the Torah but reveals its fulfillment and purpose in the Messiah, Yeshua.

Literal Translation and Commentary: Galatians 2:7 ~ 8

2:7 "On the contrary, they recognized that I had been entrusted with the task of preaching the gospel to the uncircumcised, just as Peter had been to the circumcised.
2:8 For God, who was at work in Peter as an apostle to the circumcised, was also at work in me as an apostle to the Gentiles."

Commentary

1. Different Targets, Unified Purpose
   Paul was called to preach to the Gentiles (the uncircumcised), while Peter was called to the Jews (the circumcised). However, this division was not for separation but for uniting all nations under God’s redemptive plan.
   
   

2. Peter’s Mission to the Gentiles
   Peter, in Acts 10, saw a vision of a sheet descending from heaven containing animals that Jews considered unclean. However, the Bible clearly testifies that this vision was not merely about food.
   
   

   • Peter interprets the vision in Acts 10:28 as follows:
     "God has shown me that I should not call anyone impure or unclean."

   • Thus, this vision was a command from God to preach the gospel to the Gentiles, whom the Jews had considered unclean.

Caution Regarding the Interpretation of the Vision

1. The Danger of Misinterpreting the Vision as About Food
   Interpreting the vision as a change in dietary laws conflicts with the biblical text. Nowhere in the Bible does it state that God changed or abolished the dietary laws in the Torah.
   
   

   • The Torah is God’s unchangeable word, which humans cannot alter or abolish.

   • Ignoring or attempting to modify the Torah’s commands contradicts God’s given law and is not biblically justified.

2. The Fulfillment of the Torah in Jesus
   Jesus did not abolish or dismiss the Torah but fulfilled it completely.
   
   

   • Matthew 5:17 (Yeshuah Literal Translation):
     "Do not think that I have come to abolish the Law or the Prophets; I have not come to abolish them but to fulfill them."

   • The Torah remains God’s unchanging truth, demonstrating His holiness and redemptive plan.

3. Attempts to Modify the Torah Are Contrary to Scripture
   All attempts to alter or dismiss the Torah’s commands are unbiblical and against God’s redemptive purpose.
   
   

   • God’s laws are perfect and complete, and humanity is not permitted to weaken or change them.

The Work of the Holy Spirit and Peter’s Conviction

When Peter preached to the Gentiles in Cornelius’s household, he witnessed the Holy Spirit descending upon them.

• Acts 10:44-46 (Yeshuah Literal Translation):
  "While Peter was still speaking these words, the Holy Spirit came on all who heard the message. The circumcised believers who had come with Peter were astonished that the gift of the Holy Spirit had been poured out even on the Gentiles. For they heard them speaking in tongues and praising God."
  
  

• The Meaning of Tongues and Peter’s Conviction
  
  

  • Peter was convinced of the Holy Spirit’s work because he clearly heard the Gentiles speaking in tongues and proclaiming the gospel while praising God.

  • If the tongues were incomprehensible sounds, Peter could not have discerned that they were proclaiming the gospel.

Related Scriptures

1. The Scope of God’s Salvation Plan
   
   

   • Acts 13:47 (Yeshuah Literal Translation):
     "For this is what the Lord has commanded us: 'I have made you a light for the Gentiles, that you may bring salvation to the ends of the earth.'”

   • John 10:16 (Yeshuah Literal Translation):
     "I have other sheep that are not of this sheepfold. I must bring them also. They too will listen to My voice, and there shall be one flock and one shepherd."

2. The Unchanging Truth of the Torah
   
   

   • Isaiah 56:7 (Yeshuah Literal Translation):
     "For My house will be called a house of prayer for all nations."

   • Matthew 5:18 (Yeshuah Literal Translation):
     "Truly I tell you, until heaven and earth disappear, not the smallest letter, not the least stroke of a pen, will by any means disappear from the Law until everything is accomplished."

Summary

Peter and Paul were called to preach to Jews and Gentiles, respectively, but this was not for division but for unity under God’s redemptive plan. The vision given to Peter was not about changing dietary laws but about God’s command to preach to the Gentiles, whom Jews had considered unclean.
The Torah remains God’s eternal truth, and all attempts to modify or dismiss it are unbiblical. In Christ, the Torah is fulfilled, opening the way for all nations to receive salvation through the gospel.

Literal Translation and Commentary: Galatians 2:9 ~ 10

2:9 "And when James, Cephas (Peter), and John, who were esteemed as pillars, recognized the grace that had been given to me, they gave the right hand of fellowship to me and Barnabas, agreeing that we should go to the Gentiles, and they to the circumcised.
2:10 They asked only that we should continue to remember the poor, the very thing I had been eager to do all along."

Commentary

1. Mission and Cooperation
   The apostles confirmed their respective missions and cooperated with one another. James, Peter, and John extended the right hand of fellowship to Paul and Barnabas, respecting their missions to the Gentiles and the Jews while fostering unity.
   
   

2. Emphasis on Almsgiving
   They requested that Paul and Barnabas remember the poor in their work. This highlights the completeness of the gospel, which is not only about preaching but also about practicing love and unity through charitable acts.
   
   

Related Scriptures

1. James, Cephas, and John Regarded as Pillars

1. The Daughter of Jairus Raised

• Mark 5:37 (Yeshuah Literal Translation):
  "He did not let anyone follow Him except Peter, James, and John, the brother of James."

• Jesus allowed only these three disciples to witness the miracle of Jairus’s daughter being raised from the dead.

2. The Transfiguration on the Mountain

• Matthew 17:1–2 (Yeshuah Literal Translation):
  "After six days, Jesus took with Him Peter, James, and John the brother of James, and led them up a high mountain by themselves. There He was transfigured before them; His face shone like the sun, and His clothes became as white as the light."

• This moment revealed Jesus’s divine glory to these three disciples.

3. Prayer at Gethsemane

• Mark 14:33–34 (Yeshuah Literal Translation):
  "He took Peter, James, and John along with Him, and He began to be deeply distressed and troubled. 'My soul is overwhelmed with sorrow to the point of death,' He said to them. 'Stay here and keep watch.'"

4. Jesus’s Call to Peter

• Matthew 16:18 (Yeshuah Literal Translation):
  "And I tell you that you are Peter, and on this rock I will build My church, and the gates of Hades will not overcome it."

• John 21:15–17 (Yeshuah Literal Translation):
  "When they had finished eating, Jesus said to Simon Peter, 'Simon son of John, do you love Me more than these?' He said, 'Yes, Lord, You know that I love You.' Jesus said, 'Feed My lambs.'"

2. The Gospel to the Poor

• Isaiah 61:1 (Yeshuah Literal Translation):
  "The Spirit of the Sovereign Lord is on me, because the Lord has anointed me to proclaim good news to the poor. He has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim freedom for the captives, and release from darkness for the prisoners."

• Matthew 11:4–5 (Yeshuah Literal Translation):
  "Jesus replied, 'Go back and report to John what you hear and see: The blind receive sight, the lame walk, those who have leprosy are cleansed, the deaf hear, the dead are raised, and the good news is proclaimed to the poor.'"

3. Request to Remember the Poor

• Romans 15:26 (Yeshuah Literal Translation):
  "For Macedonia and Achaia were pleased to make a contribution for the poor among the Lord’s people in Jerusalem."

• Deuteronomy 15:11 (Yeshuah Literal Translation):
  "There will always be poor people in the land. Therefore I command you to be openhanded toward your fellow Israelites who are poor and needy in your land."

Summary

James, Peter, and John acknowledged Paul and Barnabas’s mission and showed their support by extending the right hand of fellowship. At the same time, they emphasized the importance of remembering the poor, which Paul was already eager to do.
Isaiah 61 and Matthew 11 underscore the significance of proclaiming the gospel to the poor as part of God’s redemptive plan. The apostles worked within their respective missions while united in their shared goal of spreading the gospel and demonstrating God’s love through action.

Literal Translation and Commentary: Galatians 2:11 ~ 14

2:11 "But when Cephas (Peter) came to Antioch, I opposed him to his face, because he stood condemned.
2:12 For before certain men came from James, he used to eat with the Gentiles. But when they arrived, he began to draw back and separate himself, because he was afraid of those who belonged to the circumcision group.
2:13 The other Jews joined him in his hypocrisy, so that by their hypocrisy even Barnabas was led astray.
2:14 When I saw that they were not acting in line with the truth of the gospel, I said to Cephas in front of them all, 'You are a Jew, yet you live like a Gentile and not like a Jew. How is it, then, that you force Gentiles to follow Jewish customs?'"

Commentary

1. This Incident Is Not About Violating Torah
   This event does not suggest that Peter broke the Torah. It pertains to traditions created by Jewish religious leaders, not the Torah itself.
   
   

   • Peter’s withdrawal from eating with Gentiles stemmed from fear that Jewish believers might reject the gospel because of his association with Gentiles.

   • Paul rebuked Peter because his actions compromised the truth of the gospel and submitted to human traditions, which were not based on the Torah.

2. Confronting False Teachings and Traditions
   Paul strongly opposed the idea of avoiding meals with Gentiles, as it was a human-made tradition, not a biblical command.
   
   

   • This tradition, propagated by false brothers, sought to divide believers based on ethnic and religious practices.

   • Paul emphasized that such traditions distort the gospel, which is meant to unite all people under God’s redemptive plan.

3. The Gospel’s Universality
   The event highlights the purity and universality of the gospel, which transcends ethnic and cultural barriers. The gospel applies equally to Jews and Gentiles, demonstrating that salvation is for all humanity.
   
   

4. Biblical Examples of Sharing Meals with Gentiles
   The Bible contains accounts of patriarchs eating with Gentiles, reflecting God’s intention for peace and covenant relationships that include all nations.
   
   

Related Scriptures and Interpretation

1. Isaac and Abimelech

• Genesis 26:30 (Yeshuah Literal Translation):
  "Isaac made a feast for them, and they ate and drank."

• Interpretation:

  • Isaac shared a meal with Abimelech, the king of the Philistines, as a sign of their covenant.

  • This event symbolizes peace and demonstrates God’s blessing extending to Gentile nations.

2. Joseph and His Brothers in Egypt

• Genesis 43:25–34 (Yeshuah Literal Translation):
  "They served him by himself, the brothers by themselves, and the Egyptians who ate with him by themselves, because Egyptians could not eat with Hebrews."

• Interpretation:

  • Joseph shared a meal with his brothers in Egypt, revealing God’s providence even in a foreign land.

  • This account underscores God’s sovereignty and care across cultural and national boundaries.

3. Abraham and Abimelech’s Covenant

• Genesis 21:27 (Yeshuah Literal Translation):
  "Abraham brought sheep and cattle and gave them to Abimelech, and the two of them made a covenant."

• Interpretation:

  • Abraham shared a meal as part of a covenant with Abimelech.

  • This act signifies God’s intention for harmony and peace between His people and Gentile nations.

Summary

Paul’s confrontation with Peter in Antioch was not about Torah but about opposing human traditions that contradicted the gospel.

• Peter’s withdrawal from eating with Gentiles reflected fear of Jewish criticism, not faithfulness to God’s commands.

• The gospel transcends cultural and religious boundaries, emphasizing unity in Christ for all people.

Biblical accounts of patriarchs sharing meals with Gentiles reinforce God’s intention for peace and unity among all nations, foreshadowing the universal reach of the gospel. This event serves as a reminder that the gospel’s purity must be preserved against human-made traditions that distort its truth.

Literal Translation and Commentary: Galatians 2:15

2:15 "We are Jews by birth and not Gentile sinners."

Commentary

Jewish Identity and God's Torah

The apostles were born as Jews and faithfully followed God's commandments, including dietary laws, Moedim (appointed feasts), and other instructions in the Torah. They did not adopt the customs or practices of Gentiles.

Example of Peter in Acts

In the book of Acts, Peter saw a vision of unclean animals descending from heaven and strongly reaffirmed his commitment to God's laws:
Acts 10:14 (Yeshua Literal Translation):
"But Peter said, 'Lord, never! I have never eaten anything impure or unclean.'"

This demonstrates that Peter and the apostles strictly adhered to Torah commandments, such as the prohibition of eating pork (Leviticus 11), as well as other dietary laws and purity regulations.

Dietary Laws and Purity Regulations

• Leviticus 11: Specifies clean and unclean foods.

• Leviticus 15: Includes regulations regarding purity after sexual relations and during a woman’s menstrual cycle.

Rejection of Gentile Customs

The apostles avoided the practices and traditions of Gentiles that disregarded or contradicted God's commandments. This was not merely about religious traditions but a way of life rooted in God's holiness and order.

Modern Application: Torah Principles and Faith

1. The Risk of Misinterpreted Freedom
   Many Christians today misinterpret "freedom in Christ" as a license to disregard biblical principles. However, maintaining purity of body and mind remains essential. This will be further elaborated upon in subsequent sections with scriptural evidence.

2. Application of Purity Laws

   • Leviticus 15: Provides clear guidelines regarding purity during a woman’s menstrual period (Lev. 15:19–24).

   • Exodus 19: Emphasizes the necessity of being in a state of purity before worshiping God after sexual relations.
     These guidelines are not about legalism but are intended to promote holiness and reverence before God.

3. Observance of God's Appointed Times (Moedim)

   • Leviticus 23: Observing God's feasts acknowledges His authority and reflects a life set apart from the world.

Conclusion

Galatians 2:15 emphasizes that the apostles, as Jews, faithfully adhered to God's Torah and lived lives distinct from Gentile customs. Peter's commitment to dietary and purity laws serves as an example of honoring God’s commandments.

Living a disciplined life according to the Scriptures, practicing reverence toward God, and maintaining a daily commitment to His principles form the surest path to spiritual growth. This way of life not only involves personal discipline but also fosters an intimate relationship with God, producing the fruit of the Spirit and establishing a foundation for a holy life aligned with God's will.

Literal Translation and Commentary: Galatians 2:16

2:16 "Yet we know that a person is not justified by works of the law but through faith in Jesus Christ. So we also have believed in Christ Jesus, in order to be justified by faith in Christ and not by works of the law, because by works of the law no one will be justified."

Commentary: Works of the Law and Faith

1. The Only Means of Justification Under the Law: Blood Sacrifices
   
   

   • In the Old Testament, the only way to be justified under the law was through blood sacrifices for atonement.

   • These sacrifices involved offering spotless animals to God as a means to cover sins, according to the regulations of the Torah.

   • Leviticus 17:11 states, "For the life of the flesh is in the blood, and I have given it to you upon the altar to make atonement for your souls." This verse highlights the central role of atonement through blood in the law.

2. Jesus’ Sacrifice on the Cross: Fulfillment of the Law
   
   

   • The sacrificial system of the law was a shadow pointing to Jesus’ ultimate atonement (Hebrews 10:1).

   • Jesus, the spotless Lamb, came to fulfill the law by shedding His blood on the cross, completing the requirements of the law.

   • After the cross, sacrifices of animal blood were no longer necessary, as faith in Jesus brings full forgiveness and justification.

3. Paul’s Warning Against Legalism
   
   

   • In Galatia, some argued for justification through works of the law (e.g., sacrifices and circumcision), even after Christ’s atonement.

   • Paul declared, "By works of the law no one will be justified," emphasizing that clinging to the shadows of the law is a denial of Christ’s finished work (Galatians 2:16).

   • Such practices reveal misplaced faith in temporary provisions rather than the ultimate fulfillment in Christ.

4. Conclusion: The Essence of Faith
   
   

   • Faith in Jesus is not merely emotional trust but a recognition of Him as the fulfillment of the law and the sole source of salvation.

   • While the works of the law temporarily covered sin, Jesus’ sacrifice offers complete and eternal redemption.

Jesus’ Perfect Sacrifice and Fulfillment

• Hebrews 9:13-14 (Yeshuah Literal Translation):
  "If the blood of goats and bulls and the ashes of a heifer sprinkled on those who are ceremonially unclean sanctify them outwardly, how much more will the blood of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit offered Himself unblemished to God, cleanse our consciences from acts that lead to death, so that we may serve the living God?"

  • Jesus’ sacrifice cleanses not only the body but also the conscience, enabling us to serve God fully.

The Meaning and Warning of the Lord’s Supper

1. 1 Corinthians 11:26-30 (Yeshuah Literal Translation):

   • Verse 26: "Whenever you eat this bread and drink this cup, you proclaim the Lord’s death until He comes."

     • The Lord’s Supper is a vital spiritual act of remembering and proclaiming Christ’s sacrifice and resurrection.

   • Verse 27: "Whoever eats the bread or drinks the cup of the Lord in an unworthy manner will be guilty of sinning against the body and blood of the Lord."

     • Participating unworthily shows disregard for Christ’s atonement.

   • Verse 28: "Each person should examine themselves before they eat of the bread and drink of the cup."

     • Self-reflection and repentance are essential before partaking in the Lord’s Supper.

   • Verse 29: "Anyone who eats and drinks without discerning the body eats and drinks judgment on themselves."

     • Failing to understand the spiritual significance of the Supper leads to severe consequences.

   • Verse 30: "That is why many among you are weak and sick, and a number of you have fallen asleep."

     • This warning highlights the real and serious outcomes of improper participation.

The Importance of Purity Laws: Continuity Between the Old and New Testaments

1. Purity Laws in the Old Testament
   
   

   • Before approaching God, maintaining purity was mandatory. Examples include:

     • Leviticus 15: Regulations for cleanliness during menstruation (Lev. 15:19-24).

     • Exodus 19: Mandates for purification after sexual relations before worship.

   • These laws express the importance of holiness and reverence before God.

2. New Testament Continuation of Purity and Reverence
   
   

   • After Jesus’ atoning work, believers are still called to live holy lives.

   • The Lord’s Supper is not a mere ritual but a deeply spiritual act that demands introspection and reverence.

Conclusion: The Proper Attitude in the Lord’s Supper

• The Lord’s Supper is a declaration of Christ’s death and resurrection and an acknowledgment of His sacrifice.

• However, participating without proper preparation can lead to spiritual and physical consequences.

• Therefore, before partaking, believers must reflect on their lives, repent of sins, and approach with a pure heart.

• This practice aligns with the Old Testament purity laws and reflects God’s enduring call to holiness.

Further Study: The Passover and Jesus’ Atonement

For more on the connection between the Passover and Christ’s redemptive work, visit:

• Korean website: yeshuah.us

• English website: bible.mba

Final Conclusion

Galatians 2:16 clearly teaches that justification comes not through the works of the law but through faith in Jesus Christ. The sacrificial system of the Old Testament was fulfilled in Jesus’ perfect atonement. Faith in Christ’s finished work is the only path to salvation, and believers are called to remember His sacrifice with reverence and purity, especially in the observance of the Lord’s Supper. This understanding deepens our anticipation of His return and our participation in God’s eternal redemption plan.

Literal Translation and Commentary: Galatians 2:17

2:17 "But if, in our effort to be justified in Christ, we ourselves are found to be sinners, does that mean that Christ promotes sin? Absolutely not!"

Commentary: 

The Grace of the Gospel and the Issue of Sin

1. The Gospel Does Not Promote Sin
   
   

   • The Gospel does not permit or condone sin. On the contrary, the work of Jesus Christ on the cross provides the power to free us from the grip of sin.

2. The Only Path to Freedom from Sin
   
   

   • Living Apart from Sin:
     The fundamental approach to breaking free from sin is to live a life that deliberately avoids it. While this principle may seem universally agreeable, it falls short of providing the ultimate solution. Even without faith, rational and moral individuals in modern society could reach similar conclusions based on ethical reasoning. However, these efforts alone cannot address the root of the problem.

   • Life Without Christ:
     Without faith in Christ, all living beings are under the dominion of sin. Sin exerts its power over life, and its ultimate result is death.

     • Romans 6:23 (Yeshuah Literal Translation):
       "For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord."

3. The Sole Solution: The Atoning Work of Jesus Christ
   
   

   • The only way to overcome the power of sin and claim victory is through the atoning work of Jesus Christ. His sacrifice on the cross shattered the dominion of sin and death, granting justification by God’s grace.

     • 1 Corinthians 1:18 (Yeshuah Literal Translation):
       "For the message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved, it is the power of God."

Evidence of Rebirth Through the Cross

1. Transformation and Separation from Sin

   • Those who lay down their lives at the cross and are born anew demonstrate evidence of their rebirth by separating themselves from sin in their daily lives.

     • John 8:11 (Yeshuah Literal Translation):
       "Neither do I condemn you. Go now and sin no more."

   • Jesus’ words are not mere advice but a concrete command to begin a life free from sin. This reborn life goes beyond avoiding sin; it actively pursues God’s will and strives for holiness.

Victory in the Holy Spirit

1. Help from the Holy Spirit
   
   

   • Without the guidance of the Holy Spirit, it is impossible to overcome sin. The indwelling Spirit empowers believers to resist sin and grow in God’s holiness.

     • 1 John 3:9 (Yeshuah Literal Translation):
       "No one born of God practices sin, because God’s seed remains in them; they cannot go on sinning because they have been born of God."

2. Living a Holy Life Through the Spirit
   
   

   • Life in the Spirit transcends resisting sin, enabling believers to live lives marked by holiness and reflecting God’s glory.

Breaking with Sin and Living a Holy Life

1. Demonstrating Separation from Sin
   
   

   • A reborn believer provides clear evidence of breaking with sin, not merely through repentance but through tangible fruit in their life.

     • Romans 8:13 (Yeshuah Literal Translation):
       "For if you live according to the flesh, you will die, but if by the Spirit you put to death the deeds of the body, you will live."

2. Presenting Your Body as a Living Sacrifice
   
   

   • Romans 12:1-2 (Yeshuah Literal Translation):

     • Verse 1: "Therefore, brothers and sisters, I urge you, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship."

     • Verse 2: "Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—His good, pleasing, and perfect will."

Conclusion

The Gospel’s grace does not allow for sin but liberates believers from its dominion through the power of Jesus Christ’s atonement. Living apart from sin involves not only avoiding wrongdoing but also demonstrating the evidence of a transformed life, striving for active holiness.

Through the guidance of the Holy Spirit, believers are empowered to overcome sin and live lives that glorify God. This journey includes presenting oneself as a living sacrifice, constantly renewing the mind to align with God’s perfect will.

Literal Translation and Commentary: Galatians 2:18

2:18 “For if I rebuild what I have destroyed, I prove that I am a lawbreaker.”

Explanation: “Katalueo” (καταλύω)

The Greek word “katalueo” is pivotal in this passage and carries the following meanings:

1. To destroy: The act of physically tearing down or annihilating.

2. To abolish: Making an institution or law null and void.

3. To dismantle: Taking apart an established structure.

Contextual Interpretation

In Galatians 2:18, “katalueo” is used to mean “abolish.” It signifies the abolishment of the sacrificial system of the Old Testament, where animal sacrifices were offered for atonement. Through Christ’s redemptive work, this system has been fulfilled and rendered unnecessary. To rebuild it would mean undermining the completed work of the Gospel.

Examples from the Old Testament: Foreshadowing the End of the Sacrificial System

1. The Temporary Nature of the Law’s Sacrificial System
   The sacrificial rituals were a shadow pointing to Christ’s ultimate atonement (Hebrews 10:1). The Gospel did not abolish these sacrifices arbitrarily; rather, it fulfilled their purpose, thus rendering them obsolete.
   
   

   • Hebrews 10:9-10 (Yeshuah Literal Translation):
     "Then He said, ‘Behold, I have come to do Your will, O God.’ He takes away the first to establish the second. By this will, we have been sanctified through the offering of the body of Jesus Christ once for all."

     • “He takes away the first” refers to the animal sacrifices under the law, which were fulfilled through the cross.

2. Elements of the Sacrificial System No Longer Required
   Elements such as unblemished animals, altars, priests, and rituals for sprinkling blood were fulfilled by Jesus. Now, all can approach God solely through Jesus Christ.
   
   

   • Romans 6:6-7 (Yeshuah Literal Translation):
     "Knowing this, that our old self was crucified with Him, that the body of sin might be rendered powerless, so that we should no longer be slaves to sin. For he who has died has been freed from sin."

   • The Gospel eliminates the power of sin and provides new life, pointing believers toward complete separation from sin.

Commentary: Rebuilding What the Gospel Has Abolished

1. Undermining the Gospel
   
   

   • Nullifying the Grace of the Cross:
     The Gospel fulfills the Old Testament’s sacrificial system through Jesus’ atonement. To reintroduce these practices is to invalidate the sufficiency of Christ’s sacrifice.
     
     

   • Misinterpreting the Law’s Role:
     The sacrifices were a shadow of the cross. Rebuilding this system distorts the law’s original purpose and denies the essence of the Gospel.
     
     

2. Becoming a Lawbreaker
   
   

   • Returning to legalistic practices after accepting the Gospel demonstrates that one remains under the law’s condemnation and has not fully embraced grace.

The Relationship Between the Gospel and the Law

• The Law Exposes Sin:
  The law served to reveal sin, while the Gospel provides the solution by fully addressing sin.
  
  

• The Gospel Completes the Law:
  
  

  • Matthew 5:17 (Yeshuah Literal Translation):
    "Do not think that I came to destroy the Law or the Prophets. I did not come to destroy but to fulfill."

Supporting Scripture

1. Victory Over Sin Through the Gospel
   
   

   • 1 John 5:18 (Yeshuah Literal Translation):
     "We know that anyone born of God does not continue in sin. The One who was born of God keeps them safe, and the evil one cannot harm them."

2. Warning Against Falling Away
   
   

   • Hebrews 6:4-6 (Yeshuah Literal Translation):
     "For it is impossible for those who have once been enlightened, who have tasted the heavenly gift, who have shared in the Holy Spirit, who have tasted the goodness of the word of God and the powers of the coming age, and who have fallen away, to be brought back to repentance. To their loss, they are crucifying the Son of God all over again and subjecting Him to public disgrace."

   • To reject the Gospel after receiving it is to oppose God’s redemptive plan actively.

Conclusion

In Galatians 2:18, the phrase “rebuilding what has been destroyed” symbolizes the act of nullifying Christ’s work on the cross by reverting to the Old Testament sacrificial system. The word “katalueo” signifies more than simply “tearing down.” It highlights how the Gospel completes and fulfills the sacrificial system, rendering it obsolete.

Attempting to rebuild what Christ has abolished through His death and resurrection is a rejection of grace and a return to legalism. Believers must recognize that the Gospel offers complete redemption, and returning to outdated practices undermines its power. This passage warns against rejecting the transformative work of Christ and the sufficiency of His sacrifice.

Literal Translation and Commentary: Galatians 2:19 ~ 20

2:19 “For through the law, I died to the law so that I might live for God.”

2:20 “I have been crucified with Christ, and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I now live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself for me.”

Commentary: The Law and the Gospel's Fulfillment

The Relationship Between the Cross and the Law

1. Dying to the Law Through the Law
   
   

   • Paul recognizes that the law exposed him as a sinner and condemned him. Yet through Christ’s fulfillment of the law, Paul is no longer bound by its demands for justification.

   • This does not mean the law is nullified; rather, it signifies that the essence of the law has been fulfilled in Christ’s atonement.

2. Crucifixion and Resurrection with Christ
   
   

   • Being crucified with Christ signifies the death of the sinful nature and the birth of a new life in union with Him.

   • True transformation involves the indwelling of Christ through the Holy Spirit, leading to a life aligned with God’s purposes.

   • The sacrificial system of the old law, which required animal blood for atonement, has been rendered obsolete by Christ’s perfect and complete sacrifice.

The Law: A Tool for Liberation, Not Bondage

• Romans 7 clarifies that the law is not inherently burdensome or oppressive but was designed to reveal sin and lead believers to the Gospel’s freedom.

• Romans 7:1-6 (Yeshuah Literal Translation):

  • The law acts as a mirror to expose sin.

  • Its true purpose is to guide believers toward liberation from sin and a life of righteousness in God.

  • Through Christ, the law is no longer a tool of bondage but a means of achieving freedom from sin.

Related Passages: The Context of Romans 7

Romans 7:4-6 (Yeshuah Literal Translation):

“Therefore, my brothers and sisters, you also died to the law through the body of Christ, so that you may belong to another, to Him who was raised from the dead, in order that we might bear fruit for God. For when we were in the realm of the flesh, the sinful passions aroused by the law were at work in us, so that we bore fruit for death. But now, by dying to what once bound us, we have been released from the law so that we serve in the new way of the Spirit and not in the old way of the written code.”

• Being "bound by the law" refers to the condemnation brought about by sin through the law.

• The cross of Christ provides complete liberation from sin and condemnation.

Romans 7:7-25 (Yeshuah Literal Summary):

• The law reveals sin and shows how sin leads to death.

• The law itself is holy, righteous, and good (Romans 7:12).

• Paul acknowledges his sinful nature and praises God for salvation through Jesus Christ (Romans 7:24-25).

The Gospel’s Fulfillment and a New Life in Christ

Victory in the Spirit

• Those who live by the Spirit do not oppose the law but live in accordance with its essence. In Christ, believers are called to live holy lives, turning away from sin to fulfill God’s will.

Romans 8:13-15 (Yeshuah Literal Translation):

“For if you live according to the flesh, you will die; but if by the Spirit you put to death the misdeeds of the body, you will live. For those who are led by the Spirit of God are the children of God. The Spirit you received does not make you slaves, so that you live in fear again; rather, the Spirit you received brought about your adoption to sonship. And by Him, we cry, ‘Abba, Father.’”

• Living by the Spirit ensures victory over sin, enabling believers to fulfill the law’s true purpose: glorifying God through obedience and righteousness.

Conclusion

Galatians 2:19-20 clarifies the relationship between the law and the Gospel. The law exposes sin, and the Gospel addresses and resolves that sin through Christ’s atonement.

• The Gospel does not nullify the law but completes it, leading believers into a new life guided by the Spirit.

• Romans 7 offers insight into the harmonious relationship between the law and the Gospel, emphasizing freedom from sin through Christ while upholding the law’s essence.

• Believers are called to live holy lives through the Spirit, fulfilling God’s will and bearing fruit for His glory.

Key Takeaway

The Relationship Between the Law and the Gospel

Galatians 2:19-20 clearly explains the relationship between the law and the gospel. The law reveals sin, while the gospel resolves that sin and leads believers into a new life. The essence of the gospel is not the abolition of the law but the fulfillment of God’s righteous purposes through it. Romans 7 teaches that while the law exposes sin and brings condemnation, through Jesus Christ, believers are freed from this condemnation and enabled to live a renewed life.

Faith and the Power of the Spirit

Through faith in Christ, believers are liberated from the condemnation of the law and empowered by the Spirit to honor and follow God’s holy and righteous purposes. The Holy Spirit enables believers to understand God’s will and provides the strength to live a holy life. This goes beyond mere adherence to the law, manifesting God’s righteousness and holiness through the lives of His people.

The Fulfillment and Continuity of the Torah

Faith in Christ does not abolish the Torah but reveals its true purpose as God’s instruction for holy living. The gospel harmoniously unites grace and the law, confirming the fulfillment and enduring significance of the Torah through a Spirit-led life. In doing so, believers become witnesses of God’s will, living lives that both reflect His glory and testify to His redemptive work.

Translation and Commentary: Galatians 2:21

2:21 "I do not nullify the grace of God. For if righteousness were through the law, then Christ died for no purpose."

Commentary:

The Relationship Between God’s Grace and the Law

Galatians 2:21 highlights the contrast between God’s grace and the role of the law, emphasizing the core message of the gospel. Paul warns that attempts to achieve righteousness through the works of the law risk nullifying God’s grace.
As explained in Galatians 2:16, the works of the law served only a symbolic role. They provided a temporary means of covering sin but could not offer complete atonement.

The Only Path to Righteousness

Paul asserts, "If righteousness were through the law, then Christ died for no purpose." This statement underscores that, without Christ’s atoning sacrifice, humanity could never achieve perfect righteousness through the law alone.
The death of Jesus completed the symbolic role of the law and fulfilled God’s plan of redemption. Therefore, any attempt to revert to reliance on the law’s works denies the sufficiency of the gospel.

Supporting Scripture (Yeshua Literal Translation):

• Hebrews 9:12
  "He entered once for all into the holy places, not by the blood of goats and calves but by his own blood, thus securing an eternal redemption."
  
  

• Hebrews 10:4
  "For it is impossible for the blood of bulls and goats to take away sins."
  
  

• Hebrews 10:10
  "By that will we have been sanctified through the offering of the body of Jesus Christ once for all."
  
  

• 1 John 1:7
  "If we walk in the light as he is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus his Son cleanses us from all sin."
  
  

• Romans 6:1-2
  "What shall we say then? Are we to continue in sin that grace may abound? By no means! How can we who died to sin still live in it?"
  
  

Summary

Galatians 2:21 emphasizes that righteousness cannot be attained through the works of the law but solely through faith in Christ and His atoning sacrifice. The law’s role was to point toward Christ’s fulfillment of God’s redemptive plan. Reverting to reliance on the law undermines the power and purpose of Christ’s death, making it essential to embrace the gospel as the only means of salvation.