We’re taking a short detour from the Book of Acts to pick up one of Paul’s letters to the people in Galatia. Paul used letters as a way of communicating with believers to encourage them and keep them on track. He was well acquainted with how the world offered little support to Christians. Paul also knew how fragile the faith of new believers could be if challenged. Since Paul couldn’t stay in one place for long, he hoped his letters would fill in the gaps.
Paul’s letter starts with a blessing and a reminder of who Jesus is. The tone then shifts to astonishment and correction about the Good News these people have started following. Paul was “shocked.” Was it because of how quickly they turned away or that they didn’t know any better to ignore a contrary message?
This letter can speak volumes for us today. It never ceases to amaze me how preachers on social media get it wrong. For people who trust the words of a pastor, I can see how many can fall prey to false teaching. The only difference for Paul was that there was no social media spreading lies. People then and now are “fooled by those who deliberately twist the truth concerning Christ.” I join Paul in being “shocked” and saddened.
Although I can’t say that I have wished the same calamity on those false teachers as Paul. He was pretty harsh in seeking God’s curse on these false teachers. My prayer is usually that they will be convicted by the Holy Spirit to see the truth and realize they have been spewing lies and distortions to the Gospel message.
Verse 10 has to be one of my favorite verses. “Obviously, I’m not trying to win the approval of people, but of God. If pleasing people were my goal, I would not be Christ’s servant.” I don’t care if I offend someone if they are off base in their theology. Unfortunately, I have not been very vocal in calling out the lies when I stumble upon them. Unlike Paul, I’m not a very confrontational person. But I do choose to live my life setting the example of Biblical truth. It’s not always “popular,” but verse 10 sums up my motivation. It’s God I want to please.
Paul must have believed he would receive criticism for his message or even be ignored. He goes on to remind the people reading his letter about his credentials and how his authority was given to him by Jesus himself. To those who knew of Paul’s reputation before he encountered Jesus, they would surely see the difference and be a witness to God’s powerful transformation.
What we learn about Paul here is that he took his conversion seriously. He didn’t rush off to receive human affirmation but sought God. It wasn’t until years later that Paul met with Peter and James, who knew Jesus intimately. Can you imagine having a conversation with one of them?
We all have a story that God can use to touch someone else. We see how God used Paul and how Paul responded to God’s call on his life. Think about your story. What was your life like before you met Jesus? What is it like now? Pray that God will show you who needs to hear your story.
Let’s pray. Lord Jesus, you have made such a difference in my life for which I am forever grateful. When I think of who I would be without you, my heart is heavy. There are so many people, Lord, that don’t know you as their Savior, Guide, and Friend. I can’t imagine how empty their lives must be. Reveal to me who I can rescue for you and give me the means to do just that. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
