Beware the Private Interpretation!

“I went in response to a revelation and, meeting privately with those esteemed as leaders, I presented to them the gospel that I preach among the Gentiles. I wanted to be sure I was not running and had not been running my race in vain.”

Galatians 2:2

 

In this verse we find that the visit with other church leaders and even it’s timing for Paul was led by God and not directed by man.

Any delay on Paul’s part was not an act of rebellion but rather it was evidence of his desire to follow the leading of the Holy Spirit even as it pertained to the timing of his visit.

One of the ways that we are led by God is through revelation from His Holy Spirit.

Of course that revelation will never lead us contrary to His word.

Through this visit Pauls’ message to the Gentiles was confirmed by the other leaders of the early church.

Paul had been called by God but through this visit it was confirmed by those whom God had set as leaders in the first century church in Jerusalem.

Paul’s call was not in conflict with the others but it was necessary to confer in order that all the leadership moved forward together.

As God speaks to you, communicate often with those in leadership.

We must trust and respect the advice and counsel of those God has brought us into submission too.

Beware the man or woman who claims a private interpretation that is considered a ‘special’ revelation from God and therefore not requiring the need to submit it to others for judgment.

Not that God won’t sometimes speak to us in ways that seem contrary to our sense of reason and that is precisely why good, godly counsel is essential.

Do not run from it!