NT Text: Galatians 2:6
OT Source(s):
Source: Treasury of Scripture Knowledge
Reference Type: Echo
Connection Method(s): Analogy
Significance: The phrase is a "loan translation" of the Hebrew expression for showing partiality (literally "lifting the face"). In Leviticus 19:15, the prohibition applies to human judges; in Deuteronomy 10:17, it establishes divine impartiality as foundational theology. Paul's use has crucial implications for the Galatians controversy: the question is not merely procedural but theological. God's consistent character as impartial judge means any gospel creating new distinctions based on ethnic identity (Jew vs. Gentile through circumcision and law-observance) contradicts God's fundamental character revealed in Torah. The Judaizers' position, which gives special status to Jewish Christians and requires Gentiles to become Jews, violates the very principle of divine impartiality established in the law they claim to uphold.