Though the lectionary text jumps over the section about Paul’s confrontation with Peter by choosing Galatians 2:15-21 for this Sunday, the “we are Jews by nature and not sinners . . .” of verse 15 seems to refer directly to Paul and Peter. Despite the situation involving Peter’s improper withdrawal from table fellowship with Gentile believers, Paul is affirming that together both he and Peter recognize that they are “not justified by the works of the Law but through faith in Christ Jesus” (1:16).
For Paul, “seeking to be justified in Christ” means appearing to be a sinner (1:17). Here “sinner” is used as a term for Gentiles who did not have the Law, as in verse 15. By laying aside the Law as something that he depends on to achieve righteousness, he is living like the Gentiles who never had the Law of Moses (see 1:14 for “live like a Gentile” statement he made to Peter). Though a Jew and not a “sinner” like the Gentiles, by laying aside the Law and trusting in Jesus he is putting himself into the position of a those pagan “sinners”.
The gospel-grace of Jesus should absolutely obliterate any possibility for boasting or pride in ourselves because it necessitates that we place ourselves with the pagans/lawless/sinners. How odd that so often those who claim to be saved by faith through grace exhibit a sense of moral superiority! Peter’s withdrawal from sharing fellowship with Gentile sinners is too often what we find ourselves emulating rather than the crucified-self life of Jesus within.
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