Galatians 2:6

Seemed to be somewhat. That is, probably, the apostles themselves, the recognized leaders of the church. These persons are also described in v. 2 as men “of reputation.” Verse 6 continues the line of thought interrupted by vs. 3-5. Paul does not here speak deprecatingly of these men “of reputation,” as might at first appear, for their acceptance of him and approval of his gospel (chs. 1:24; 2:9) constitute important evidence confirming his authority as an apostle. See v. 9.

Whatsoever they were. The purpose of this parenthesis is to remind the Galatians that the question under discussion is not the excellence of the apostles but the validity of Paul’s gospel. Personality, and even high office, is of less consequence than truth. Unquestionably the Twelve had had great privileges. They had been associated personally with Jesus for three years. They had heard Him preach. They had witnessed His miracles. Paul is not detracting from the importance of the apostles, but he endeavors to make clear that their position and office could have no bearing whatever on the problem under consideration. God did not consult man with respect to what is truth, but commissions him to declare truth. To this important duty Paul has been called, even as had the Twelve.

Person. Literally, “face,” that is, outward appearance in contrast with inward character (see on 1 Sam. 16:7). This being God’s method of evaluation, why should position or rank be considered more highly than character? Truth is of paramount importance, while the position or rank of those proclaiming it is of little consequence. Nevertheless, Paul ever loyally supported those who had been appointed to positions of responsibility in the church. He held in highest esteem those who, like himself, had been commissioned by God to preach the gospel. He considered his own call a high honor and believed it carried authority which he was under obligation to exercise when the occasion demanded (see Rom. 11:13; 2 Cor. 13:2). Compare Acts 10:34.

Added nothing. Paul’s gospel had come from the same source as that of the apostles, and was a complete gospel. To add to or subtract from it would mar its perfection. The strength of his argument is that, although Paul had not conferred with, or been instructed by, the Twelve, his gospel was nevertheless the same as theirs. Examining the demand of the Judaizers that Titus and all Gentile converts to Christianity be required to submit to circumcision, the apostles found themselves in complete agreement with Paul. They did not propose that Paul either alter or modify his stand.