Why did some Jewish Christians object to St. Peter’s acceptance of Gentiles?

Some Jewish Christians objected to St. Peter’s acceptance of Gentiles because it challenged established religious traditions regarding conversion and social interaction.1

According to Jewish requirements of the time, a Gentile convert was expected to first become a Jew through the rite of circumcision and be accepted as a proselyte. When Peter baptized the centurion Cornelius and his household without requiring them to undergo circumcision, he introduced an innovation that drew significant opposition from within the early church.1

Furthermore, Jewish Christians viewed the sharing of meals with Gentiles as alien to their traditions. This tension was notably highlighted in Antioch, where Jewish Christians—influenced by individuals associated with St. James—objected to the practice of eating with Gentile converts. Peter initially participated in these meals but later withdrew in deference to those who insisted on maintaining traditional boundaries, an action that led to a confrontation with St. Paul. These disputes were eventually addressed at the Council of Jerusalem, which sought to resolve the conflict and maintain unity within the church.12