New Book for May: Mary Baker Eddy - the Years of Discovery

New Book for May: Mary Baker Eddy - Years of Discovery

This is the first of Robert Peel's trilogy about the famous author and religious leader.  I can't wait to get started again on this landmark book.

Editor

Paul's resistance work against the "Judaizers"

Two writers here share their thoughts in response to an assignment given during an online Bible Study course held by Principia College in the US and conducted by Madelon Maupin.

Q. The core of Galatians is Paul's resistance to the Judaizers or Missionaries. Please explain why Paul is so theologically opposed

A Delicate Balance for Paul

What is the delicate balancing act Paul is undertaking on his second trip to Jerusalem? What is at stake for him in meeting with these 'elders'?

It’s been about seventeen years since Paul’s “great light” experience on the road to Damascus.  Paul has been largely on his own during this time, carrying out his God-given mission in Syria and Cilicia.  Except for one brief visit to Jerusalem fourteen years earlier, when he met with Peter (and briefly seeing James) for just over a fortnight, he’s carried out his mission completely separate from those in Jerusalem.

So, when it comes time to actually show up in person, he needs to be aware that the attitude of those “elders” toward him may be one of suspicion, perhaps jealousy, perhaps “who does he think he is” personal offence.  Thus he needs to speak carefully so they are not offended. 

On the other hand, Paul KNOWS he has been divinely commissioned.  His authority to work among the Gentiles has not come about by any personal agenda or human planning.  It is Christ-grounded and impelled.  He needs to let those in Jerusalem know that he knows his place and stands tall in carrying it out.

What was at stake is a peaceful and supportive relationship with fellow Christians.  Would there be animosity, derision, non-acceptance?  Or could they forge a relationship that was exalted above the human and see that the work would be a blessing for humanity if they could accept and appreciate each others’ individual contributions.

Julie Swannell