Introduction
Galatians 1-10, “For do I now persuade men or God? or do I seek to please men? for if I yet pleased men, I should not be the servant of Christ.”
Is your faith growing weak? What is causing you to waver in your walk with Christ? I know you might face difficulties right now, but please do not quit. I have been there many times and thank the Lord Jesus Christ for not letting me go. Satan desires to shatter our faith and confidence in God through the things we experience but do not quit.
The apostle Paul understood this conflict, and in his letter to the Galatians, he addresses one of the greatest challenges for believers: holding fast to the gospel of Christ regardless of what you are going through. In a time when it feels easier to adapt and conform, standing firm can feel like an uphill battle. But what if I told you that, just like Paul, you already have what it takes to remain grounded and unshakable in your faith? Let’s dive into Galatians 1, a chapter packed with insight, courage, and unwavering conviction. I’ll unpack Paul’s journey from persecutor to preacher, his revelation from Christ, and how these truths equip us to recognize and reject the “other gospels” that lure us off track.
1. The Authority of Paul’s Message
Paul opens his letter with a powerful assertion: his apostleship is “not of men, neither by man, but by Jesus Christ, and God the Father, who raised him from the dead” (Galatians 1:1). His message is divinely sourced, not filtered through human authority or opinion. Paul’s journey was a direct calling from Christ, who met him on the road to Damascus. This encounter transformed Paul from a zealous persecutor of Christians to one of the most fervent advocates for the gospel.
Why This Matters: Many today wonder if they need to meet the world’s expectations or seek approval to find purpose. Paul reminds us that our ultimate calling is from God, not people. When we anchor our identity in Christ, we’re free from the weight of societal validation and empowered to pursue God’s purpose for us.
2. Unwavering Loyalty to the True Gospel
The Galatians were struggling, “removed from him that called [them] into the grace of Christ unto another gospel” (Galatians 1:6). Paul’s urgency here is palpable. He calls out the “other gospel” as a distortion of Christ’s teachings, meant to trouble and divide. For Paul, the gospel is pure and non-negotiable. Any attempt to alter its message not only misleads but also threatens the foundation of faith. What is it that you are struggling with, write it down and then pray about it, you can also ask your friend to help you pray about it.
Application for Today: In an age of information overload, we’re bombarded with “new truths” and beliefs tailored to suit personal preferences. Paul’s words challenge us to recognize when these ideas stray from the gospel and reaffirm our commitment to the unchanging message of Christ. In doing so, we find peace and confidence in a reliable, unshakeable truth.
3. The Courage to Speak Against Popular Opinion
Paul boldly declares, “If any man preach any other gospel unto you than that which we have preached unto you, let him be accursed” (Galatians 1:9). His conviction to defend the gospel was so strong that he was willing to stand against anyone, even angels, who might preach a different message. For Paul, the gospel is clear and complete, needing no addition or alteration to fit popular opinion. What is the gospel that was first preached by the apostles? Acts 2: 38, Repent and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sin and you shall receive the gift of the holy ghost.
A Lesson in Boldness: We often face pressure to compromise our values to avoid conflict or please others. But Paul shows us that we’re called to stand firm, even when it’s unpopular. There’s a unique confidence that comes with knowing that the truth you stand for is God-given and unchanging. You don’t need anyone else’s permission to live out your faith.
4. God’s Grace in Your Story
Paul’s own life is a testimony to the power of God’s grace. He reflects on his past, openly acknowledging that he “persecuted the church of God, and wasted it” (Galatians 1:13). Yet, it was God’s grace, not his qualifications, that transformed him into a pillar of faith. Paul embraced his past, not as a burden, but as a testament to God’s power to redeem.
Reflect on Your Journey: We all carry parts of our past that we may feel disqualify us from God’s love. Paul’s story reminds us that God’s grace covers every part of our lives, no matter how far we’ve strayed. When we bring our brokenness to Him, He’s able to redeem it, using our past as a powerful part of our testimony.
5. A Call to Resist and Rejoice
Paul concludes by recalling how people were amazed that “he which persecuted us in times past now preacheth the faith which once he destroyed” (Galatians 1:23). His life became a living testimony, glorifying God. He did not conform but remained steadfast, and God used him to inspire believers across generations.
How We Can Glorify God Today: By staying true to the gospel, we offer a powerful testimony to the world around us. In every season, through every challenge, our lives can reflect His glory, just as Paul’s did. Resist the urge to water down your faith and rejoice in the opportunity to be a light that leads others back to the unshakable gospel.
Conclusion
Galatians 1 is a bold declaration for anyone tired of “other gospels” and ready to find peace in the true gospel of Jesus Christ. Paul’s journey and his words remind us that when we know whom we serve, we don’t have to compromise our faith or fit into society’s mold. God’s call for each of us is deeply personal, rooted in love and truth, and powered by grace. Hold on to the gospel, let your life glorify God, and, like Paul, live out your calling with boldness and unwavering conviction.