But Paul did not cower. He openly fought these deceivers and ably defended himself and the gospel in this open forum (2:5).

He was then backed up by the high-ranking apostles Peter and Peter’s assistant in Jerusalem, James the Lord’s brother.

But Paul is not impressed with the persons of men, even his own friends in the Gospel (2:6). He does not show disdain for his fellow apostles, but neither is he in awe of them. He is an equal, made so by Jesus Christ personally.

Luther: “I would honor the Pope, I would love his person, if he would leave my conscience alone, and not compel me to sin against God. But the Pope wants to be adored himself, and that cannot be done without offending God.”

Even the favorable conclusions of the Council added nothing to Paul! His truth was not up for a vote, albeit the vote was decidedly in his favor.

There would be conferences to come in the history of the church or pseudo-church, where truth would be mangled and twisted by men, but continue unabated. As we said, councils are good for confirming truth already revealed, but never for creating new truth.

It was clear to Paul and all at this meeting, that he was to go to the Gentiles just as specifically as Peter was to go to the Jews (2:7-8).

Did Peter and Paul preach the same Gospel?

And no, emphasizes Ironside, there are not two gospels suggested here. Simply two commissions to preach the same Gospel to two different people groups. We see Peter and Paul preaching and writing, and their message, taken as a whole, is the same:

Be aware of your sin.

Repent.

Believe in Jesus.