Galatians 2:13 (KJV)

What does Galatians 2:13 mean?

Galatians 2:13 describes how other Jewish believers, following Peter’s example, acted hypocritically by separating themselves from Gentile Christians, and even Barnabas was influenced by their insincerity. Paul is highlighting how this behavior led others astray and created division within the early Christian community.

Paul is writing to the Galatians about a real event where Peter and other Jewish Christians in Antioch stopped eating with Gentile believers out of fear of criticism from some Jewish groups. Paul points out that not only did the other Jews follow Peter’s lead, but even Barnabas—someone known for his encouragement and partnership with Paul—was swept up in this behavior. The verse shows the powerful influence of leaders’ actions and the challenge of staying true to the gospel’s message of unity.

The Greek behind Galatians 2:13

• ὑπεκρίθησαν (hypekrithēsan, “dissembled”): This word is often understood as “acted hypocritically” or “pretended.” It suggests that the Jewish believers were not being honest about their true beliefs or convictions, but were instead putting on a false front to please others.
• συναπήχθη (synapēchthē, “was carried away”): This word means “was led along with” or “was influenced by.” It shows that Barnabas didn’t act on his own, but was swept up by the group’s behavior.
• ἀνυπόκριτος (anupokritos, “dissimulation”): The Greek word here, ὑπόκρισις (hypokrisis, “dissimulation”), means hypocrisy or pretending. Paul is emphasizing that their actions were not genuine and did not match their beliefs.

Why Galatians 2:13 matters

• Galatians 2:13 clears up that even respected leaders like Barnabas can be influenced by group pressure and act against their convictions, which can have a ripple effect on others.
• The verse highlights the seriousness of hypocrisy within the church, especially when it leads to division and undermines the message of unity in Christ.
• This incident connects to Paul’s larger argument in Galatians about the importance of living consistently with the gospel and not letting fear or social pressure dictate one’s actions.