Features Pricing Bible Library Churches About Sign in Begin

Galatians 2:7

But contrariwise, when they saw that the gospel of the uncircumcision was committed unto me, as the gospel of the circumcision was unto Peter;

Galatians 2:7 · King James Version

Meaning

In this verse, the Apostle Paul is reflecting on the distribution of responsibilities among the early Christian leaders. He is emphasizing that just as Peter was entrusted with spreading the gospel among the Jewish people (the circumcision), he himself was entrusted with spreading the gospel among the Gentiles (the uncircumcision). This decision highlights the inclusivity of the Christian message, as it was meant to reach all people, regardless of their backgrounds or previous beliefs. Paul's mission to the Gentiles was crucial in the early expansion of Christianity beyond its Jewish roots, making the faith accessible to a wider audience. This verse serves as a reminder that the message of Jesus Christ is meant for everyone, breaking down barriers and uniting believers from diverse backgrounds under one faith.

Theological Overview

Paul's statement in Galatians 2:7 sheds light on the theological implications of the gospel message in the early church. By emphasizing the distinction between the gospel of the uncircumcision entrusted to Paul and the gospel of the circumcision entrusted to Peter, Paul highlights the universal nature of the gospel message. The term "uncircumcision" refers to the Gentiles, while "circumcision" refers to the Jews. This verse underscores the idea that salvation is available to all people, regardless of their background or ethnicity. Through careful word study, we can see that Paul's ministry was specifically focused on bringing the good news to the Gentiles, while Peter's ministry was primarily directed towards the Jews. Ultimately, this verse underscores the inclusive nature of the gospel and the role that both Paul and Peter played in spreading the message of salvation to all people.

Galatians 2:7 in other translations

American Standard Version

but contrariwise, when they saw that I had been intrusted with the gospel of the uncircumcision, even as Peter with [the gospel] of the circumcision

World English Bible

but to the contrary, when they saw that I had been entrusted with the Good News for the uncircumcision, even as Peter with the Good News for the circumcision

Douay-Rheims

But contrariwise, when they had seen that to me was committed the gospel of the uncircumcision, as to Peter was that of the circumcision.

Geneva Bible (1599)

But contrariwise, when they saw that ye Gospel ouer ye vncircumcision was comitted vnto me, as the Gospel ouer ye circumcision was vnto Peter: