Gal. 2:11-14 (Hypocrisy, Confrontation, and Christian Freedom)

The pastor at the church I am attending is currently preaching through Galatians. We are currently in the second chapter. This week he preached through a not often quoted section, 2:11-14; nonetheless, there was a lot of insight and conviction to be found in this passage. To listen to his sermons, check out the church's website HERE, and click on the media tab. Here is his basic outline and a few key points:

1. WE MUST OPPOSE HYPOCRISY DIRECTLY (v.11)

• This is a biblical obligation, but must be done carefully and with love

2. SPIRITUAL FREEDOM MUST BE GUIDED BY SCRIPTURE, THE HOLY SPIRIT, AND LOVE (v.12)

• Freedom should always be considered within the context that it is being exercised
• Will it cause a brother to stumble?
• Will it hurt or misrepresent the Gospel?

3. ANYONE CAN FALL INTO HYPOCRISY (v.13)

• Barnabas and Peter both fell into this trap
• Peter (and probably Barnabas too) understood the doctrine of justification far better than us, and he still compromised on this occasion
• We are justified, but are BEING SANCTIFIED (in other words, we still mess up constantly)

4. WE MUST UNDERSTAND AND RECOGNIZE HYPOCRISY - IN OURSELVES AND OTHERS (v.14)

• We must pray for discernment to recognize hypocrisy and a willingness to repent of it
• We all have blind spots, which is why home groups are so crucial to our sanctification (we need to guard ourselves and others)
• One super secret trick for understanding and recognizing hypocrisy is to read and study the Bible (it is our guide to hypocrisy)

Related Passages: 1 Tim. 4:1-2; Acts 15:36-41; Lev. 11; James 5:19-20; Matt. 18; Gal. 6:1-2; Gal. 5:1, 13; 1 Cor. 8:1, 9-13; Matt. 23

What does Jesus think about hypocrisy? Read Matt. 23

• I am a hypocrite everyday whenever I understand what the Bible teaches about a certain thing, but I choose to do something different
• The only right response to hypocrisy is repentance

This sermon (like most gospel-centered, exegetical sermons) was ridiculously convicting. There is no doubt that I am a hypocrite everyday. My professed system of beliefs states that God is completely sovereign, my purpose is to glorify Him, and the Bible is my ultimate authority. Yet, my words and actions regularly communicate something to the contrary. This is the essence of being a hypocritical.