I am astonished that you are so quickly deserting the one who called you to live in the grace of Christ and are turning to a different gospel— which is really no gospel at all. Evidently some people are throwing you into confusion and are trying to pervert the gospel of Christ. But even if we or an angel from heaven should preach a gospel other than the one we preached to you, let them be under God’s curse! As we have already said, so now I say again: If anybody is preaching to you a gospel other than what you accepted, let them be under God’s curse! Am I now trying to win the approval of human beings, or of God? Or am I trying to please people? If I were still trying to please people, I would not be a servant of Christ. Galatians 1:6-10
This week, we are starting a new book in the New Testament, also authored by Paul. In the very first chapter of this letter, after Paul’s signature greeting and introduction, we see the tone is very different from that in the book of Romans. We quickly see that he is going to address the most important issue that he sees in the church, which is the accurate representation of the Gospel message. He stresses the importance of preaching the true gospel by using what seems to be an outrageous example of an angel professing a Gospel that is not true. Which, in thinking of the origin of Satan, the example may not be that inaccurate.
As we consider the idea that Paul set this church up and had to leave them to go and set up other churches around the region. This allowed others to visit and corrupt the message that Paul initially left with the church. Paul seizes the opportunity to lovingly correct the church and the improper aspects that have crept their way into their message. This is a very consistent pattern in Paul’s letters as his most important concern is the truth and consistency of the Gospel of Jesus.
This is an important lesson to modern-day believers as it calls us to be accountable to those that we minister to. We are called to check in with our Brothers and Sisters to ensure that they are being effective in their walks and having maximum Kingdom impact. This should be much more convenient these days, as there are numerous ways that we can effectively communicate. Be a champion for the seeds of evangelism that you have sown but ensure that you are doing it in a caring and loving way.
Have a great week! ~Danny
