What was the result of Paul not giving in to the Jerusalem leaders?
Paul’s refusal to give in to the Jerusalem leaders for even an hour resulted in the truth of the gospel continuing with the Gentiles. His stand ensured the gospel message remained uncorrupted so that Gentile believers could receive it as Paul preached it.
Les explains that Paul was under pressure from the Jerusalem leaders—Peter, James, John, and the rest of the Twelve—who thought they were still head and shoulders above him. But Paul says they did not give in to them, no, not for an hour. The end result was that the truth of the gospel might continue with the Gentiles. Les points out that these Jerusalem leaders seemed to be somewhat, but their authority had slipped through the cracks and Paul’s had ascended. They were Jesus’ chosen vessels, but Israel had rejected it all, and Israel was slipping away. Because of Israel’s unbelief, they lost their position, and the Temple and Jerusalem would soon be destroyed. So when they compared notes of doctrine, not experience, the truth of the gospel was preserved for the Gentiles.
To whom we gave place by subjection, no, not for an hour; that the truth of the gospel might continue with you.
More Questions
Did Paul give in to the Jerusalem leaders who pressured him?
Paul, writing by the Holy Spirit's inspiration, did not yield in subjection to the Jerusalem leaders even for an hour, though he was under pressure to do so.