Why is the word 'that' important in Galatians 2:2?
In Galatians 2:2, the word “that” is important because it points to the specific gospel Paul communicated—the same gospel he preached among the heathen. It was not a different message or a Law-keeping gospel, but the revealed gospel of grace Paul proclaimed to the Gentiles.
Les teaches that Paul went up by revelation and communicated unto them “that” gospel—the specific gospel he preached among the heathen. The word “that” is all-important in this verse because it identifies the exact message Paul proclaimed, not a different gospel. In the context of the Jerusalem Council, about 22 years after Pentecost, they were still debating whether salvation was by faith alone or required keeping the Law of Moses and circumcision. Paul had to confront the Twelve so the issue could be settled and the gospel could move into the Gentile world.
And I went up by revelation, and communicated unto them that gospel which I preach among the Gentiles, but privately to them which were of reputation, lest by any means I should run, or had run, in vain.