Paul rebukes Peter

The depiction shows Peter and Paul in conversation. Only at second glance does it become clear that they are in disagreement. The direction of their gaze, their gestures, and the contrast between the standing and seated figure indicate this. Paul himself makes it clear in the Letter to the Galatians: the behavior of Peter towards non-Jewish followers of Christ was hypocritical (Gal 2, 13).

The so-called Antioch incident is recounted in the Letter to the Galatians (Gal 2:11–14). It describes a public conflict between Paul and Peter in Antioch.

Initially, Peter ate together with non-Jewish believers in Christ, thereby putting into practice the fellowship between Jewish and Gentile Christians. This was the arrangement agreed upon at the so-called Council of Jerusalem.

However, when believers from the circle of James—the brother of the Lord—arrived, Peter withdrew from these shared meals out of fear of criticism. His behavior influenced other Jewish Christians; even Paul’s companion Barnabas followed suit.

Paul publicly criticized Peter, viewing his actions as contrary to the Gospel: those who believe in Christ should not distinguish between Jews and Gentiles, and Gentiles should not be pressured to adopt a Jewish way of life.

The incident became a pivotal event for early Christianity. It brought to a head the question of whether belonging to the people of God depends on observance of the Jewish Law or solely on faith in Christ.