For before certain men came from James, he would eat with the Gentiles; but when they came, he withdrew and separated himself, fearing those who were of the circumcision – Galatians 2:12.

Is it possible to stand up with steadfast determination for what we believe without changing our behavior according to our environment?

As opinion leaders, wherever we are, it is crucial to understand that we bring people along whatever we do. Predictability as leaders and mentors warms the hearts of those among whom we minister. Being who we are, everywhere and in everything, is Christlike and appreciated.

In this matter, we can hold up Peter’s behavior in Antioch before the entourage from James arrived from Jerusalem as an example (Gal. 2:13). The great apostle had good fellowship over meals with the Gentile believers until the delegates arrived. Peter switched behavior by drawing back and separating “himself from [eating with] the Gentiles because he was afraid of those who belong to the circumcision group” (12). How hypocritical could he be! The damning thing was the negative influence his action had on Barnabas (13).

How dangerous the fear of man can be! Grounding our decisions on the approval of men has an uncanny way of invoking fear in us because of their expected reaction. Such situations make us wishy-washy and ruin our integrity. Paul could not allow that poisonous hypocrisy to permeate the young church in Antioch, hence, his rebuke of Peter.

We thank God for men like Paul. They model convictions and strong integrity. They boldly confront our hypocrisy and save us from ourselves and others. Is it not such believers we want around us at all times?

As we worship together this morning, let us determine to develop strong convictions in our faith that will fortify our integrity. Our walk with Jesus will then be purposeful, firm, and glorifying to God, our Father, and our Lord Jesus Christ, in whose name we have gathered. It is the only way to shield ourselves from spiritual hypocrisy and be willing to confront the waywardness of others for mutual edification.

May you live imbued by your Christian convictions in everything beyond these walls, that you may be a positive influence on the surrounding people, rather than leading them astray by hypocritical living.

Shalom.