GALATIANS 2:9

“and recognizing the grace that had been given to me, James and Cephas and John, who were reputed to be pillars, gave to me and Barnabas the right hand of fellowship, so that we might go to the Gentiles, and they to the circumcised.”

A handshake – it used to mean something. Many a deal was made just by a simple handshake between individuals. A man’s word was his bond. That handshake meant each man would follow through on what they had agreed upon. No paperwork was required. No lawyer was needed. My dad had that kind of reputation in my hometown. Jack Willis’ word was enough. That’s the kind of man I strive to be.

When James, Peter and John gave Paul and Barnabas the “right hand of fellowship” they were agreeing to support them in their mission to the Gentiles. They were saying We trust you to carry out the mission we have agreed on. They recognized them as fellow-laborers for Christ. Whether this was done privately or in public, this handshake was a formal agreement between them. Paul believed them and was supported by them.

APPLICATION

Perhaps you have given that “right hand of fellowship” to someone. What does that mean to you? Will you support that individual in their walk with the Lord? We need each other to accomplish God’s kingdom work here on earth. You and I can’t possibly do this all by ourselves.

There is a passage in Hebrews 10 that is often quoted to encourage each other to attend church. Look at verses 24 and 25 and see what you observe there. “24 and let’s consider how to encourage one another in love and good deeds, 25 not abandoning our own meeting together, as is the habit of some people, but encouraging one another; and all the more as you see the day drawing near.”

Do you want to know what I see there? I’m going to tell you anyway. I see “encourage one another in love and good deeds.” I see “encouraging one another.” It’s not just about not missing church. We need to be coming alongside each other. We need to be offering that “right hand of fellowship.” Why? Because the day is “drawing near.”

Paul has been talking a lot about allies, companions and partners in Galatians. I believe he wanted the Galatians to know that he was not a one man operation. He was co-laboring with Titus, Barnabas, Peter, James and John. And just like Paul, we need others to work alongside for the cause of Christ. Who is that person(s) in your life?

Thank You, Lord, for my partners in ministry all over the world.