The Foundation of Our Liberty: Part 1 – Liberated by Faith – Part 4 – Dr. Charles Stanley

In today’s message, we delve into God’s word with Charles Stanley, focusing on Galatians Chapter 2. In this chapter, Paul addresses the Galatian churches, who have been unsettled by Judaizers from Jerusalem. These Judaizers insisted that to be true Christians, believers needed to not only trust in Jesus Christ but also follow the Mosaic law. In Galatians, Paul firmly refutes this idea and provides a clear explanation of why it’s not necessary.

In the first part of Galatians, Paul offers historical background. Starting from verse 11, he addresses a key moment: Peter’s visit to Antioch. Paul describes how he confronted Peter, stating, “I opposed him to his face because he was clearly in the wrong.” Peter had initially eaten with the Gentiles, but when certain men arrived from James, he withdrew, fearing criticism from the Jews who adhered to the law. Paul calls out Peter’s hypocrisy, noting that even Barnabas was influenced by this behavior.

Paul then addresses the broader issue: if Peter, a Jew, was living like a Gentile by embracing the freedom in Christ, why was he compelling Gentiles to live under Jewish customs? Paul underscores the central doctrine of the book: justification by faith, not by works. He emphasizes that no one can be justified by following the law, but only through faith in Jesus Christ.

The conflict in the early church was centered on whether Gentiles could be accepted by faith in Christ alone, or if they needed to follow the Mosaic law. This was a critical issue for the future of the church. Paul uses this moment to clarify that Christians are freed from the bondage of the law. This freedom doesn’t mean we ignore God’s commandments, but rather that we are no longer bound by legalistic regulations. Christ has set us free to live in the liberty of faith, not constantly worrying about fulfilling rules to please God.

Paul recalls Peter’s dilemma: while in Antioch, Peter acted freely like Paul and other Gentile believers. However, when Jews arrived from James, a strict adherent of the law, Peter changed his behavior out of fear, trying to appease both groups. Paul confronted Peter, reminding him that if he knew he was free in Christ, why was he reverting to legalism? Paul’s bold confrontation of Peter highlights the importance of standing firm in the freedom that comes through Christ alone.