Les Feldick Bible Study

Why wasn't Titus forced to be circumcised at the Jerusalem council meeting?

Titus, a Greek Gentile convert traveling with Paul and Barnabas, was not compelled to be circumcised because the Gospel Paul preached among the Gentiles left out circumcision and law-keeping. The matter was held at bay, and they would not bring Titus under circumcision to be part of the council meeting.

Les explains that the Jerusalem meeting arose because these Jews could not comprehend a Gospel that was not based on law-keeping. Paul was brought to Jerusalem, and the Lord instructed him. He communicated privately to those of reputation the Gospel he preached among the Gentiles—the leadership, likely including Peter, the eleven, and other Jewish elders. That Gospel left out circumcision and law-keeping, which they could not see. Titus was evidently with Paul and Barnabas, a Greek Gentile and one of Paul's converts from his missionary journeys. The text states that neither Titus, being a Greek, was compelled to be circumcised. Les points out that they held them at bay long enough: they were not going to try to bring Titus under circumcision in order for him to be part and parcel of the great council meeting.

Galatians 2:3

But neither Titus, who was with me, being a Greek, was compelled to be circumcised: