Paul is called as the Apostle to the Gentiles. (Romans 11:13) There were zealous Jews who opposed him and his ministry to Gentiles. The point of contention was that the Jews thought the New Covenant in the Lord Jesus Christ was a subtext of the Old Covenant through Moses. Hence, they demanded that the Gentile followers of Christ adhere to Mosaic Law and be circumcised. However, Paul argued that the Gentiles have freedom and need not come under the bondage of Jewish Law, traditions, and customs. Paul got support from James, Cephas (Peter), and John in the ministry.
Pillars: The three were called pillars of the Jerusalem Church. They were considered as foundational and authoritative leaders of the church. God had appointed them to uphold the truth of the gospel, provide guidance, strategic growth, and a spiritually stable atmosphere.
James: James, who supported Paul, was the brother of Jesus. He was a primary leader and also chaired important meetings.
Cephas (Peter): When others were wondering who Jesus was, Peter declared Jesus to be Christ, Son of the Living God. This was not a discovery, but a humble reception of the revelation of Father to Peter. (Matthew 16:16) This is the foundational truth on which the church is built.
John: Along with Peter and James, John was in the inner circle of disciples. The Lord took the three on a few specific occasions to train them as leaders. Only these three names are mentioned in the Acts of the Apostles. When all other disciples disappeared from Jerusalem and later from Golgotha, John was steadfast in his love and loyalty to the Lord.
Unified church and diverse missions: The Church is united, but the ministry God entrusts to His people is diversified. There is one Spirit, and He distributes the gifts to the believers. It is the prerogative of the Spirit. Peter is the Apostle to Jews, while Paul was for Gentiles. One could plant, and another could water, but the Lord gives the increase. (I Corinthians 3:6)
Right hand of fellowship: The three leaders extended their affirmation, partnership, trust, and authenticated the mission to the Gentiles spearheaded by Paul.
Do I function as a pillar of the unified church?