Scripture: Galatians 1:18-20
Then after three years I did go up to Jerusalem to visit Cephas and stayed with him fifteen days; but I did not see any other apostle except James the Lord’s brother. In what I am writing to you, before God, I do not lie! 
Thought for the Day: What did Paul and Peter (Cephas) talk about during Paul’s visit to Jerusalem? It has often been assumed that Peter brought Paul up to speed on the life and teachings of Jesus since Paul did not have firsthand knowledge like Peter. Yet that assumption is nothing more than an assumption, and Paul seems eager in these verses to emphasize the limited time he spent with Peter and the other Disciples. It’s almost as if Paul is bending over backwards to make this clear to his readers. Paul’s concluding words on this topic, “I do not lie!” seem to indicate that he is responding to specific allegations that have been lost in history. This is one of the frustrating parts within any religion that is based upon a book…especially a book that does not come with an instruction manual. Many powerful statements have been made throughout Christian history based upon assumptions, yet that’s pretty dangerous. I would suggest that at times it is okay for Christians to say, “I’m not too sure if we can fully understand what Paul intended here, and for that reason, I’m not going to make any presumptuous statement based upon speculation.”
Prayer: Give me both wisdom and prudence, Lord God, so I know when to speak, when to engage in lively debate, and when to remain silent. Amen.
NOTICE!
COMING SOON…
1 thought on “Ecclesiological Etchings: 07-07-13”
Awesome message Bruce – thanks for leading us through this study of Galations !! I am just trying to be more in the word so I can develop a better understanding of what is meant. Yet having stated that I can go back and read a seemingly straight forward passage I have read multiple times over the years and suddenly at this point in my life it has a entirely new meaning for me. Your daily devotionals certainly help motivate me to start my day and stay in the word as much as possible.