Article 7: Paul and Barnabas Versus Judaizers – Theological Conflict over the Law

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1. Introduction
The early Christian church faced significant theological challenges, particularly regarding the relationship between the Mosaic Law and Gentile converts. Paul and Barnabas played central roles in confronting Judaizers who insisted on circumcision and full law observance for Gentile believers.

2. Historical and Biblical Context
The Judaizers were a group of Jewish Christians who taught that Gentiles must adhere to Jewish customs, including circumcision, to be fully accepted into the church (Acts 15; Galatians 5:1–12). This teaching threatened the gospel of grace through faith.

The Council of Jerusalem (circa AD 49) convened to address this controversy. Paul and Barnabas reported on their missionary successes among Gentiles and argued against imposing the full law (Acts 15:1–29).

3. Nature of the Conflict

  • Legalism versus Grace: Judaizers promoted a return to the law, while Paul emphasised salvation by faith alone.
  • Church Unity: The conflict risked division between Jewish and Gentile believers.
  • Apostolic Authority: The council’s decision reflected apostolic leadership’s role in doctrinal clarification.

4. Theological Significance

  • Salvation by Faith: Paul’s epistles stress that righteousness comes through faith, not works of the law (Galatians 2:16).
  • Freedom in Christ: Believers are freed from the law’s bondage (Galatians 5:1).
  • Gentile Inclusion: The church affirmed the full inclusion of Gentiles without imposing Jewish legal requirements.

5. Scholarly Commentary
N.T. Wright (2009) argues that this controversy was foundational for defining Christian identity as distinct from Judaism while rooted in the promises of God to Israel.

6. Conclusion
The conflict involving Paul, Barnabas, and the Judaizers was crucial in shaping early Christian doctrine and maintaining gospel purity. It exemplifies the church’s struggle to balance continuity and discontinuity with Jewish tradition under the guidance of the Holy Spirit.

References
Acts 15; Galatians 5:1–12; Galatians 2:16
Wright, N.T. (2009). Paul and the Faithfulness of God. Fortress Press.

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