The implication of Paul’s words is that Peter enjoyed table fellowship for a period of time with believers from a Gentile background.1 That is to say, he sat with them at the same table and he partook of the same food that they ate, most probably some of the foods that were designated unclean by old covenant law (Leviticus 11:1–47; Deuteronomy 14:1–29).2 In doing this, his behaviour was consistent with that which God had revealed to him (Acts 11:1–18).
12 For before certain men came from James, he was eating with the Gentiles; but when they came he drew back and separated himself, fearing the circumcision party.