Entrusted with the Gospel

If you were to go to many colleges and seminaries to study theology, the professors would claim that Paul's theology contradicted that of Peter and James. These professors would say that these early apostles clashed over the fundamental Christian message.

Galatians 2:1-10 records a great summit meeting between Paul, who was called to preach the gospel to the Gentiles, and Peter (with James and John) who brought the gospel to the Jews. The outcome is that they agreed both on their message and on the division of labor as they sought to evangelize the world. They also agreed upon the importance of ministering to the poor in the churches.

The cooperation and respect among the apostles has application to us today.

• How should we look upon the men whom God uses to do great things for His kingdom?

• Who is authorized to preach the gospel and to do church planting?

• How should Christians from different churches work together to advance the gospel?

• Why does God allow poor people among his churches?

• What are our responsibilities to the poor?