Dit was egter nie my eie besluit nie. Nee, God het in ’n openbaring vir my kom wys dat ek Jerusalem toe moes gaan. Daar het ek die boodskap wat ek oral onder nie-Jode preek, aan die gelowiges in die stad voorgelê. Ek het ook privaat met die leiers van die kerk in Jerusalem gepraat, met al daardie mans wat so ’n groot naam in die kerk het. Ek het dit gedoen omdat ek doodseker wou maak dat my sendingwerk nie verniet was nie. Dink net wat sou gebeur het as Jerusalem se kerkleiers ernstige kritiek op my boodskap gehad het. Dan was al my harde werk daarmee heen.
What Does This Mean?
Paul explains that he went up to Jerusalem by divine revelation and shared the gospel message privately with those of reputation, ensuring his efforts among the Gentiles were not in vain. Paul is speaking here, emphasizing the importance of communicating the gospel effectively.
Explained for Children
Imagine you have a secret recipe for the best cookie ever. You want to share it only with your closest friends so they can make sure it's perfect before telling everyone else about it. That's what Paul did with his message about Jesus!
Historical Background
The letter to the Galatians was written by Apostle Paul around AD 49-57. It was directed at churches in Galatia, addressing issues of legalism and the true nature of faith. The cultural setting involved a mix of Jewish and Gentile believers struggling with how to practice their faith.
Living It Out Today
Today, when you have an important message or idea that could benefit others, it's wise to test it out first in smaller, trusted circles before sharing broadly. This ensures your efforts are meaningful and impactful.
Why did Paul communicate privately with the leaders?
Paul communicated privately to ensure that his message aligned with what other church leaders were teaching, avoiding conflicts and ensuring unity in the faith.
What does 'lest by any means I should run, or had run, in vain' mean?
This phrase indicates Paul's concern about not wanting all his efforts to spread the gospel among Gentiles to be wasted if he was teaching something inconsistent with other apostles.
How does this verse relate to modern ministry?
It highlights the importance of seeking guidance and unity when spreading the message, ensuring that what is taught aligns with established truths and isn't in vain.
What can we learn about sharing faith from Galatians 2:2?
We should share our faith thoughtfully, considering who needs to hear it first and how to present it effectively without causing division or misunderstanding.