I did not go up to Jerusalem to those who had become apostles before me; instead I went to Arabia and came back to Damascus.

I went up according to a revelation and presented to them the gospel I preach among the Gentiles—but privately to those recognized as leaders—so that I might not be running, or have run the race, in vain.

Now from those recognized as important (what they really were makes no difference to me; God does not show favoritism)—they added nothing to me.

For he regularly ate with the Gentiles before certain men came from James. However, when they came, he withdrew and separated himself, because he feared those from the circumcision party.

If I rebuild the system I tore down, I show myself to be a lawbreaker.

then understand that those who have faith are Abraham’s sons.

So those who have faith are blessed with Abraham, who had faith.

But the Scripture has imprisoned everything under sin’s power, so that the promise by faith in Jesus Christ might be given to those who believe.

to redeem those under the law, so that we might receive adoption as sons.

For it is written:

Rejoice, childless woman,
who does not give birth.
Burst into song and shout,
you who are not in labor,
for the children of the desolate are many,
more numerous than those
of the woman who has a husband.

I wish those who are disturbing you might also get themselves castrated!

envy, drunkenness, carousing, and anything similar. I tell you about these things in advance—as I told you before—that those who practice such things will not inherit the kingdom of God.

Now those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires.

Therefore, as we have opportunity, we must work for the good of all, especially for those who belong to the household of faith.

Those who want to make a good impression in the flesh are the ones who would compel you to be circumcised—but only to avoid being persecuted for the cross of Christ.

May peace come to all those who follow this standard, and mercy to the Israel of God!