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- Oct 26, 2007
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But when Peter came to Antioch, I had to oppose him to his face, for what he did was very wrong. Galatians 2:11
Most men, if they’re honest with themselves, have to admit that they dislike confronting another person, even when it’s sorely needed. Confrontation of that kind makes most men very uncomfortable, and sometimes they choose the path of least resistance, leaving well enough alone rather than putting themselves through the trauma of speaking needed truth to another.
In today’s verse, Paul recounts a moment of confrontation between himself and the apostle Peter, who because of his own fear of confrontation had behaved and spoken hypocritically concerning a thorny issue the early church faced (see vv. 12-13).
While it’s highly doubtful that Paul took any pleasure in this face-to-face disagreement with Peter, what’s clear is that he had the courage to say what needed to be said. In doing so, he set an example men of God can follow today.
When you find yourself in a situation that requires face-to-face declaration of facts—with a friend, a family member, or a brother in Christ—ask God to give you the courage and wisdom to speak the words that address the problem. And when you speak, do so in a way that fosters love, reconciliation, and trust. Always seek to build up those around you, not tear them down.
Most men, if they’re honest with themselves, have to admit that they dislike confronting another person, even when it’s sorely needed. Confrontation of that kind makes most men very uncomfortable, and sometimes they choose the path of least resistance, leaving well enough alone rather than putting themselves through the trauma of speaking needed truth to another.
In today’s verse, Paul recounts a moment of confrontation between himself and the apostle Peter, who because of his own fear of confrontation had behaved and spoken hypocritically concerning a thorny issue the early church faced (see vv. 12-13).
While it’s highly doubtful that Paul took any pleasure in this face-to-face disagreement with Peter, what’s clear is that he had the courage to say what needed to be said. In doing so, he set an example men of God can follow today.
When you find yourself in a situation that requires face-to-face declaration of facts—with a friend, a family member, or a brother in Christ—ask God to give you the courage and wisdom to speak the words that address the problem. And when you speak, do so in a way that fosters love, reconciliation, and trust. Always seek to build up those around you, not tear them down.
