Several years after his first visit, Paul returned to Jerusalem, this time, with Barnabas and Titus. He went in response to a revelation he received to speak with the leaders of the church to set before them the gospel he preached. During their journey, Paul and his companions met false believers who tried to influence Titus, a Gentile believer, to be circumcised. But neither he nor Paul gave into them so that the truth of the gospel might remain. Paul wholeheartedly believed in the power of the gospel and the finished work of the cross to bring salvation to all men.

Paul did not idolize the church leaders in Jerusalem. As pastors, shepherds, and leaders, we must not worry about our appearance, titles, or success. What Paul cared about was that the pure gospel was preached for salvation. James, Peter, and John added nothing to his message, and they accepted Paul and Barnabas as they recognized the grace given them to preach the gospel to the Gentiles. While God was at work in Peter’s ministry to the Jews, God was at work in Paul’s ministry to the Gentiles. What is your call before God? We need not compare ourselves to anyone, but humbly commit ourselves the very responsibility entrusted to us by God in faith.
Application: Father, thank you so much for calling me out of darkness into your marvelous light and entrusting me with the gospel. Raise bold witnesses to preach your word to the nations.
One Word: Preach the gospel!