Galatians 2:3-5

A parenthesis, which however illustrates the main subject, referring to an incident which marked an important stage in the history of his stay at Jerusalem. (Galatians 2:3) Strong representations were made, by a small but energetic section of Jewish Christians, in favour of circumcision. But not even Titus—my companion, brought therefore into close contact with the Jewish Christians—a Gentile, was circumcised in spite of all their compulsion, (Galatians 2:4) But because of the nature of that attempt at compulsion, or rather, I say, because of the activity of the false-brethren who had been brought in secretly—deserving the title for they came in secretly to act the spy on our liberty in Christ Jesus, that they might enslave us to the law—(Galatians 2:5) I say, to these we yielded, as though recognizing their authority—no, not for a moment; in order that the Gospel in its integrity might continue with Gentile Christians, including you yourselves.

3–5. The success of my independent attitude is shown by the case of Titus. Strong representations were made that he should be circumcised. But in vain