12/29/2025
By Pastor Vinnie Cappetta
Series: Still Speaking: When Old Headlines Echo God’s Truth
"When Zeal Turns to Harm"
Scripture: Galatians 2:11–14
“When Cephas came to Antioch, I opposed him to his face, because he stood condemned.
For before certain men came from James, he used to eat with the Gentiles.
But when they arrived, he began to draw back and separate himself from the Gentiles because he was afraid of those who belonged to the circumcision group.
The other Jews joined him in his hypocrisy, so that by their hypocrisy even Barnabas was led astray.”
— Galatians 2:11–13
Years ago in Boston, a group of animal rights activists launched a campaign meant to protect life. But it turned into something else — threats, vandalism, intimidation. Somewhere along the way, the cause swallowed the compassion. The energy that began in conviction ended in fear and harm.
That pattern isn’t new.
Peter knew what it felt like to be caught in it — to believe one thing, but act another way under pressure. He had eaten freely with Gentile believers until certain men arrived from Jerusalem. Then he pulled back. Not because his theology had changed, but because his fear got louder. And that fear didn’t stay contained — others followed his lead. Even Barnabas the encourager. Even the strong can be swayed by the subtle pull of approval.
Peter wasn’t trying to divide the church. He wasn’t trying to betray the gospel. But in that moment, fear shaped his choices more than love did. And Paul had to speak up.
Not to shame him. But to keep the gospel clear.
I’ve done this too — maybe not in public ways, but in subtle ones. Holding back when I should have spoken. Speaking my mind when I should have listened. Sometimes, it’s not our doctrine that’s wrong, but our delivery. Truth wielded without love becomes harm. And love with no truth becomes hollow. The gospel holds both — clarity and compassion. Courage and kindness.
Reflection
Where have I let fear or pressure reshape how I live out what I believe?
Where do I need to return to the simplicity of the gospel — conviction with compassion?
Who is watching how I carry my faith? What are they learning from me?
Prayer
God, forgive the times I’ve confused fear with faithfulness.
Make me honest. Make me brave.
Help me carry Your truth in a way that is full of grace.
Amen.
Memory Verse
“Let the wise listen and add to their learning, and let the discerning get guidance.”
— Proverbs 1:5
Blessings, Dr. Vinnie
