First, preserve the truth of the gospel (1-5). Paul was not under the direct influence of the Jerusalem church. However, false believers used his independent ministry to cause problems. Paul received a revelation to visit the leaders in the Jerusalem church. He took Barnabas and Titus, a Gentile believer, with him. Paul presented the gospel and the gospel truth was evident. Even the leaders did not compel Titus to be circumcised. Only Jesus Christ, not our works, saves us from our sins. Second, God is at work through different people (6-10). Paul respected the church leaders. But more important was how they handled the gospel. The gospel preached by the Jerusalem apostles was, in fact, the same as what Paul preached. The difference was in their mission fields. Peter was sent to minister the gospel to Jews; Paul to the Gentiles. Both were faithful to the gospel and to the people whom God had sent. The Jerusalem leaders offered their right hand of fellowship and recognized God's grace in Paul.
Application: Lord, help me to be faithful to the gospel and to the mission field where you have sent me.
One Word: Preserve and proclaim the truth