SOUTHSIDE CHURCH OF CHRIST

Straightforward About the Truth of the Gospel, 17 September 2000

Dec 03, 2000

Leland R. Ping

The Apostle Paul wrote to the Galatians concerning the need for "the truth of the gospel" in Galatians 2:14. Paul tells us that Peter had been at Antioch teaching things he ought nought. Dealing with the differences that existed between the Jews and Gentiles, Peter was not open about the truth of God's message. And Paul, seeing that this was the case, "withstood him [Peter] to his face" (Galatians 2:11).

Like Paul, we must encourage others to be straightforward about the truth of the gospel. In a world where every other "doctrine" but the gospel is preached, it might seem strange for the Christian to say, "Hey wait just a minute!" and demand the gospel to be preached. When it comes to talking about God, there is no other place to turn but his word. Paul said the God is not the author of confusion (I Corinthians 14:33) and clearly, the many doctrines in today's world are confusing! We must demand Bible preaching, for the Bible is the gospel and God's "power unto salvation" (Romans 1:16).

We must also guard ourselves continually against being led astray and being made weak like Peter. Paul said Peter was to be blamed for what was going on in Antioch (Galatians 2:11). And, if we find ourselves acting in such a way that doesn't support the truth of the gospel, we will also be the ones to blame. It is vital for the Christian to remain faithful and strive to fight against the temptations to lose courage for God so that we can defend ourselves against "the wiles of the devil" (Ephesians 6:11).

Let us look to accounts like this one so that we might learn and be better prepared to serve God. Like Paul, let's be bold for the cause of Christ. And as for Peter, let's make sure we stand fast and proud for the gospel. In doing these things, we can then begin to succeed in being straightforward about the truth of the gospel.