S – “…and when James and Cephas and John, who seemed to be pillars, perceived the grace that was given to me, they gave the right hand of fellowship to Barnabas and me, that we should go to the Gentiles and they to the circumcised.”

Galatians 2:9 ESV

O – Commentary:

This was sealed by James, Peter, and John in their extending to Paul and Barnabas the right hand of fellowship. This was a sign of agreement and trust and an indication to all present that they endorsed the division of labor whereby the Jerusalem apostles were appointed to evangelize the Jews and Paul was entrusted to carry the gospel to the Gentiles.

 Donald K. Campbell, “Galatians,” in The Bible Knowledge Commentary: An Exposition of the Scriptures, ed. J. F. Walvoord and R. B. Zuck, vol. 2 (Wheaton, IL: Victor Books, 1985), 594.

A – As someone who has been a Christian for a long time, the phrase “right hand of fellowship” usually has a negative connotation.  In its proper context, it actually means agreement and and trust.  In this case, the same gospel will be preached but to different people groups – Jews and Gentiles.  It changed the world.  

R – Heavenly Father, we surrender and worship You.  We are grateful that your Word and love for us was conveyed so we could choose you as our Lord and Savior.  Thank you for a gospel that is available to all people with no limitations.