Then I went into the regions of Syria and Cilicia, and I was still unknown by sight to the churches of Judea that are in Christ; they only heard it said, ‘The one who formerly was persecuting us is now proclaiming the faith he once tried to destroy.’ And they glorified God because of me. (Galatians 1: 22-24)

Whatever was said by the mysterious others who brought a different gospel, Paul has perceived an attack. Moreover, this is not just a dispute over the gospel.

Paul perceives the others have attacked his integrity and authority by mischaracterizing his relationship with the churches of Judea and the leaders in Jerusalem.

I am inclined to believe the others accused Paul of departing from accepted teaching established by the Jesusalem leadership.

Paul is responding by minimizing the authority of Jerusalem leaders and - as we will see - also claiming their endorsement.

We are often misunderstood - especially on the most important matters. Others often assume we share the same position as family and friends.

When we take a different position we may be attacked and suspected of bad motives. How do we respond?

How do we keep faith with our deepest understandings and yet not betray existing relationships? Can we remain in relationship even when there is profound disagreement?

Above is an ancient rendering of the Apostles Peter and Paul embracing one another. For many the two Apostles personify two very different understandings of Jesus' teaching.