Galatians 1
PASTOR’S NOTES
“I marvel that you are turning away so soon from Him who called you in the grace of Christ, to a different gospel.”
Paul begins his letter to the churches of Galatia in disappointment and confusion on how those that he loves in Christ have so quickly jumped ship to a new teaching and belief on who God and Jesus are. Paul is heart broken to see his friends follow a distorted gospel. As we start our study in this New Testament book of the Bible, note that this book serves as a wonderful guide to growth in the now as well as preparation for the future. This book is a gift in the day we live in, but also such an eye opener for parents and others who are looking towards the future.
The book of Galatians is all about building strength while correcting foolishness. There is so much that we in 2021 can learn from this wonderful book of direction as well as pour into others in hope that they avoid such correction and mistakes. Just like a parent wants so badly for their child to be ready for the future, Paul desires the people of God to be prepared spiritually. The people of Galatia were not completely turning from a belief in God’s existence, but more changing the good news of the gospel by adding and taking away from its beauty.
We don’t have to go very far today to see these issues present just like Paul saw in his life. During this time, false teachers were easily able to persuade the people in false theology which put them and their families at grave risk. When we often think of false teachers or “different gospels,” we think of people teaching that God does not exist or that the Bible is not truth. At times, this does happen. However, most of the time these falls are centered around teachers guiding others into believing that the Gospel is something else other than what scripture tells us. Many during that day and today will teach a works-based salvation which is not of Jesus and will separate the heart from God. Paul sees this and warns his people! Paul knows that the way to God is through Jesus and that the gospel in sufficient. That by grace and faith we are saved and Jesus is the way. Anything added or taken away only hurts us and leads us astray.
SCRIPTURE TO GO ALONG WITH THE MESSAGE
Read 1 Peter 3:15 as well as 2 Timothy 2:25 as defending our faith ties in to Galatians 1.
HIGHLIGHT IN YOUR BIBLES
Highlight verses 6-7 in chapter 1 of Galatians
QUESTIONS TO CONSIDER
1.) What does “contending” for the gospel mean and why is it important to be able to defend faith?
2.) Has there been a time in your life where you were not prepared to contend which led to believing false teaching?
3.) If you have children or loved ones, do you believe they are ready to contend?
