Paul and Peter: Conflict, Theology, and Reconciliation in the Early Church
The bustling city of Antioch was alive with voices from every corner of the empire. Markets overflowed with spices, and synagogues echoed with prayers. Here, believers from every nation gathered, united by the name of Jesus.
Peter stepped into the room where the church met. His gaze swept over the crowd—Jew and Gentile alike—worshipping together. For a moment, he smiled, sharing a meal with the Gentiles, their fellowship unbroken.
But soon, whispers reached him—visitors from Jerusalem, men loyal to James, stirring concerns about the Gentiles’ customs. Peter’s smile faded. He hesitated, then withdrew from the Gentile tables.
Barnabas looked on, conflicted. Following Peter’s lead, he too distanced himself.
At a quiet corner table, Paul observed the scene with growing concern. He approached Peter, voice low but firm.
“Cephas,” Paul said, using the Aramaic name that still resonated deeply, “this behaviour—it is not right.”
Peter looked away. “They are from James. I feared their judgment.”
Paul’s eyes narrowed. “We who are Jews know the Law, yet we live not by it as Gentiles do. Why compel others to live by it?”
Peter’s silence spoke volumes.
Nearby, Barnabas shifted uncomfortably, torn between old customs and the gospel’s freedom.