Contradiction with Romans 13:1
This verse emphasizes submission to authority, which contrasts with Paul's confrontation of Peter in Galatians 2:11.
Romans 13:1: Let every soul be subject unto the higher powers. For there is no power but of God: the powers that be are ordained of God. [ordained: or, ordered]
Contradiction with 1 Chronicles 16:22
This verse instructs not to touch God's anointed, while Paul openly challenges Peter, a leading figure in the early Church.
1 Chronicles 16:22: [Saying], Touch not mine anointed, and do my prophets no harm.
Contradiction with Matthew 18:15
This verse advises private confrontation before public rebuke, contradicting Paul's public opposition to Peter.
Matthew 18:15: Moreover if thy brother shall trespass against thee, go and tell him his fault between thee and him alone: if he shall hear thee, thou hast gained thy brother.
Contradiction with 1 Peter 2:13
Encourages submission to every human institution, whereas Paul does not submit to Peter's actions.
1 Peter 2:13: Submit yourselves to every ordinance of man for the Lord's sake: whether it be to the king, as supreme;
Paradox #1
The potential contradiction in Galatians 2:11 could be seen as the disagreement and confrontation between early Christian leaders, Peter and Paul, which might seem inconsistent with the unity often expected among church leaders. However, this also illustrates that even apostles had differing views and needed to resolve conflicts, reflecting the human aspect of the early church.
Paradox #2
Galatians 2:11 might seem to show a conflict because it describes a disagreement between two important early Christian leaders. One leader criticizes the other for behaving one way with one group and differently with another. This event could seem inconsistent with the idea of church leaders being unified. However, it's often understood as a moment of honest correction to ensure everyone was true to the message they preached.
Paradox #3
Galatians 2:11 describes a disagreement between Paul and Peter (Cephas). The potential contradiction or conflict is that this account shows early Christian leaders having significant disagreements, which seems to contradict the idea of unified leadership in the early church. It suggests that even key figures like Peter and Paul had different views on key issues, such as the inclusion of Gentiles, challenging the notion of early harmony in church teachings.
Paradox #4
The contradiction, inconsistency, or conflict in Galatians 2:11 arises from the tension between adhering to religious laws and embracing the principle of equality and acceptance among all believers. Paul confronts Peter for behaving differently with Gentile believers when Jewish believers were present. This highlights the struggle between maintaining traditional religious practices and fostering unity and equality in the new Christian faith.