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Series: Galatians: Church on the Move
Text: Galatians 2:1–10

Context & Background

• This passage likely connects to the Jerusalem Council (Acts 15)
• Core issue:
  • Must Gentiles follow the Law to be saved?
  • Is Paul’s ministry legitimate?

Key Truth:

• The Law exposes sin—but cannot save
• Salvation is through grace alone

Main Idea: Like Paul, both the content of our message and the freedom we have found in Christ must be matched by our character and reputation.

I. Like Paul, we must ensure that the content of our message is accurate.

Galatians 2:1–2

• Paul presents his gospel to church leaders
• Not because he doubts the message—but to confirm unity

Key Points:

• The gospel came to Paul by revelation of Jesus Christ (Gal. 1:11–12)
• Yet he still seeks accountability and confirmation

Application:

• Where do we go to test our message?
  • Scripture first
  • Church history second
• If it’s “new,” it’s probably not true

Key Quote (Martin Luther):

“The true gospel teaches justification by faith alone… the false gospel adds works to faith.”

II. Like Paul, we preach that we have been made free in Christ

Galatians 2:3–5

• Titus (a Greek) was not forced to be circumcised
• False teachers attempted to enslave believers again

Key Truth:

• The gospel = Christ alone
• Not Christ + works

Supporting Scriptures:

• 2 Corinthians 3:6 — The letter kills, the Spirit gives life
• John 15:5 — Apart from me you can do nothing
• Colossians 2:9–10 — You are complete in Him
• 2 Corinthians 12:9 — My grace is sufficient
• John 1:17 — Grace and truth through Jesus

Application:

• Legalism still threatens today
• We struggle to accept grace without “earning”

But freedom means:

• You are saved by Christ alone
• You are sustained by Christ alone

III. Like Paul, where we go for validation matters

Galatians 2:6–10

• Paul’s message and mission are affirmed by church leaders
• James, Peter (Cephas), and John extend fellowship

Key Insights:

• Character and reputation matter
• God uses community to affirm calling

But ultimately:

• God’s validation matters most

Identity in Christ:

• 2 Corinthians 5:17 — New creation
• Ephesians 2:10 — God’s workmanship
• Galatians 2:20 — Christ lives in me
• Romans 8:14–17 — Children and heirs

Resulting Lifestyle:

Matthew 5:13–16

• Be salt and light
• Let your life reflect the gospel

Conclusion

• Don’t let anyone steal your freedom
• Don’t distort the gospel
• Don’t compromise your character

Final Challenge:

Because of the cross:

• You are free
• Now live like it

Homework

2 Corinthians 5:1–21

• Read
• Reflect
• Respond in prayer
• Rest in Christ