They Heard Only Galatians 1:23 - Equipped for Battle

Paul the apostle has been sharing his testimony with the churches of Galatia in the first verses of his letter to them. We have been privileged to come along side his words and consider their value. His persuasions toward them have been because false teachers have infiltrated the churches and taught them that they must obey the law as well as believe in Jesus. Paul is declaring the gospel of grace according to Jesus Christ, and as proof of it's accuracy, he has noted that the churches in Judea had never before seen his face but knew of God's work in his life. He continues this thought in chapter one and verse twenty-three where he wrote:

But they had heard only, That he which persecuted us in times past now preaches the faith which once he destroyed.

News travels fast. In a day when there was no telephones, no wires, no radios, and emails, members of the church in Judea, “had heard only.” Imagine the conversations between people for a moment: “Have you heard about the one they call Saul of Tarsus? He's become a believer. No, not him. He was persecuting the church. Yes, him. I suppose Jesus can save anyone then, can't he?...” It must have been quite the dialog. No matter how it was, we know this, Paul's testimony is that they heard about him. But what did they hear?

They heard, “That he which persecuted us in times past now preaches the faith which once he destroyed.” What a marvelous conversion this was! The people must have wondered greatly at the fact that Saul, (Paul as he was now being called) had converted to the very Christianity that he was trying to destroy, and not only that, he was now a preacher who was promoting Christian ways. He persecuted them. He tried to destroy them, but Jesus Christ prevailed in his life to the point that He made him a preacher of the gospel. Such is the marvelous grace of Jesus Christ, and as an example of the extent to which the grace of God may reach, Paul considered himself one of the most far reaching adversaries to the gospel and yet he was changed.

What have others heard about us? Do they know of our wonderful conversion to Jesus Christ? Perhaps we have not been called in a former manner to “preach the gospel” as a preacher, but our testimony has a preaching affect upon others as we live our lives before them. Maybe some are reading these words today who might believe that the grace of Jesus Christ could not extend to the place they are in the world. If so, consider Paul. His vile conduct against the church did not inhibit the gospel of the grace of God from reaching him, and its impact was so great that he became a preacher of the very ideas he was trying to destroy. If God can change Paul, he can change us too. May we all consider having him alter us in such a powerful manner that others will hear about us and know the marvelous work of God that has been done within us.

Next time will look at the people's reaction to Paul after they heard about him, so read ahead, and let us join together then.

Until tomorrow...there is more...

Look for the new devotional book “Equipped for Battle – From Generation to Generation” in all major

bookstore sites, www.amazon.com ; www.barnesandnobles.com ; download to e-books, and find it

locally at www.mrzlc.com/bookstore

Unknown By Face Galatians 1:22 - Equipped for Battle

How many of us have ever seen Paul the apostle face to face? The answer is an easy one, right? None, but as we study the book which he wrote to the church members in Galatia, we find that we are not the only ones who did not see him. As Paul continues his defense of the grace of Jesus Christ verses having a relationship with Jesus that includes keeping the law, we find more about his early days as a Christian. He wrote in chapter one and verse twenty-two:

And was unknown by face unto the churches of Judea which were in Christ:

Paul begins with these words, “And was unknown by face.” In other words, they had never seen him. His reputation was known before his physical appearance, and his lack of physical presence did not prevent what people knew about him.

He continued, “unto the churches of Judea which were in Christ.” It wasn't that Paul did not desire to be with the churches in Judea, no, rather he was in other places. There was no conference or council of churches who had met with him in the early days. If anything most of the church members in Judea feared Paul because of his “threatenings and slaughters.” Though he converted to Christianity, the believers did not trust that he was a true believer except for in Jerusalem where Barnabas helped Paul as recorded in the book of Acts in chapter nine in verses twenty-six through twenty-nine. Paul generally avoided surrounding areas of the city in the beginning of his ministry, lest he be troubled by both the churches and the synagogues.

When we think about it, our testimony of a relationship with Jesus Christ has the ability to travel to faces we are yet to see. Though others may know of us, we may have never seen them. How many radio ministers share the gospel every day with people they have never met face to face? The power of the gospel of Jesus Christ is that it has a way of penetrating hearts even when someone has never met us personally. If we make efforts such as this blog to reach out to the world, there will be an opportunity for others to have a relationship with God although they may never see us physically. God Almighty has an awesome plan of redemption, and He chooses to use us to implement that plan even as He used Paul. Though Paul was not seen by the church members in Judea, it did not affect the ability of the grace of God being shared. Let us ever more share and pray for those who are unknown to us even as Paul did in his day.

Next time will look at Paul's reputation among the early church at first, so read ahead, and let us join together then.

Until tomorrow...there is more...

Look for the new devotional book “Equipped for Battle – From Generation to Generation” in all major

bookstore sites, www.amazon.com ; www.barnesandnobles.com ; download to e-books, and find it

locally at www.mrzlc.com/bookstore

Paul's Early Travels Galatians 1:21 - Equipped for Battle

When we read the words of Paul the apostle, we may be inclined to think about his early days of conversion. What was he like? Where did he go? How did he feel when he knew that he was going one direction so adamantly and now he was going the total opposite direction? As we have considered his persuasions toward the Galatian churches, we have discovered some of these answers, and as we continue to read his words to them, we will know more about Paul's early Christian days. He wrote in chapter one and verse twenty-one:

Afterwards I came into the regions of Syria and Cilicia;

After Paul's visit with Peter and his meeting with James, Paul left Jerusalem and traveled northward to the areas of Syria and Cilicia which border the Mediterranean Sea. Paul didn't stay with the churches in Judea, but went away to others who were in distant places. We shall learn in a couple days “But they had heard only, That he which persecuted us in times past now preaches the faith which once he destroyed.” They only “heard” of Paul's works because he wasn't around them. Tarsus, Paul's home town was located in Cilicia, and it is quite possible that he went there for some time, however, it is interesting to note that Galatia is just north of Cilicia, and it may have been while he was there that the idea of reaching Galatia with the gospel came into Paul's mind. We are not really sure, but it is an interesting thought.

It is in the times of the mundane and normalcy that God is often preparing us for the work He has in mind. Though Paul traveled from place to place in his early Christian days, it was as if he was in preparation for the missionary journeys he would venture upon during his commissioned work. All along the way God had His hand upon Paul, and now that Paul has discovered error in the doctrine being presented to and believed by the churches in Galatia, he uses his past, even his normal past, to convey to the church members the grace of God. It was never about the works of Paul, but rather about the guiding grace of Jesus Christ that governed Paul's life.

So when is the last time we took a venture of faith? Have we traveled to some distant land without regard to the protection of the securities we are often misled to believe are truly secure? Have we worried over what others might think should we be led by God in some direction that may seem foolish at the time? Have we realized that the Sovereign Almighty God may be using the mundane and normal directions of our lives to prepare us for even greater exploits in His Kingdom? Perhaps the testimony of Paul will inspire all of us to wonder, what will my words be to others “Afterwards”?

Next time will discover that not everyone knew of Paul when he was converted to Jesus, so read ahead, and let us join together then.

Until tomorrow...there is more...

Look for the new devotional book “Equipped for Battle – From Generation to Generation” in all major

bookstore sites, www.amazon.com ; www.barnesandnobles.com ; download to e-books, and find it

locally at www.mrzlc.com/bookstore

I Lie Not Galatians 1:20 - Equipped for Battle

Paul has been giving his background to the churches of Galatia. He does so to provide proof that the doctrine of the gospel of Jesus Christ he presented to them was the true gospel. The impact of the grace of God was shown in Paul's life first before he went out to preach it to others. Now almost as a pleading teacher Paul emphasizes to an even greater level his being truthful with the churches as he wrote in chapter one and verse twenty:

Now the things which I write unto you, behold, before God, I lie not.

In a fashion that appeals to the senses of his readers, Paul wrote, “Now the things which I write unto you, behold...” In other words, take a moment to look at these words and think about them. The very idea that Paul is writing to the church at all should be enough to know the earnestness of his heart toward them, but he desires that they take some time to consider his words. As a defense to the accuracy of his teachings and the truth of the gospel of Jesus Christ, Paul desires that the churches stop their path of belief in false ways and remember that he gave them the true gospel in the first place.

Paul then elevates his comments to an even greater level by saying, “before God, I lie not.” With God in Heaven as his witness, Paul tells the people of Galatia that he is not lying. Why would he lie? Paul risked life and limb to bring the gospel of Jesus Christ to the churches in Galatia. He over and over again endured beatings, shipwrecks, imprisonments, etc. to bring the gospel to the Gentile world of which Galatia was a part. What would ever possess him to tell them a lie about the gospel or his background? The answer is nothing. Paul cared for the membership in Galatia before he even knew who they were, and the fact that these infiltrators would come in and mislead them motivated Paul to have them consider his words to the greatest degree. He would not lie to them, and the evidence is in the sacrifice that he made to bring them the gospel in the first place.

Can we say that we, before God, have not lied about our faith to another person? Would we have occasion to even say so? Have we such a concern for another person or people that we would make the appeal to them to consider our efforts to persuade them that the gospel we presented to them is accurate and true the first time we presented it? Perhaps Paul's greatest message to us today is not only that he would not lie about his background and the gospel that he presented, but also that he went to the efforts to present the gospel to others in the first place. His defense of his position is only relevant because he ventured in faith enough to care that other people know the grace of the Lord Jesus in the manner that he knew it in his own life. Do we care that much for others? May the Lord Jesus keep us from lies and help us to care enough to share his gospel with other people this very day.

Next time Paul will tells of other travels he made after his conversion, so read ahead, and let us join together then.

Until tomorrow...there is more...

Look for the new devotional book “Equipped for Battle – From Generation to Generation” in all major

bookstore sites, www.amazon.com ; www.barnesandnobles.com ; download to e-books, and find it

locally at www.mrzlc.com/bookstore

None But James Galatians 1:19 - Equipped for Battle

We have watched through the first verses of the book of Galatians as Paul the apostle has been giving his background to the members of the churches located there. Because there are those among them in Galatia who are corrupting the gospel of Jesus Christ by adding obedience to the law, Paul is seeking to demonstrate how it was the grace of God that brought forth his salvation. He has shown this to be true thus far by stating that when he was converted he did not confer with flesh and blood, nor with any of the apostles of renown, but went into the deserts of Arabia and was trained by Jesus Himself for three years. It was only after those three years that he sought out Peter in Jerusalem and stayed with him for fifteen days. Paul adds additional comments to his lack of encounters with many of the apostles in chapter one and verse nineteen where we read:

But other of the apostles saw I none, save James the Lord's brother.

Paul desired that the churches in Galatia know that he received the teaching of the gospel of Jesus Christ from the ultimate authority, Jesus Christ Himself, so he states, “But other of the apostles saw I none,”. Paul did not matriculate on the backbones of the ones who walked daily with Jesus while He was on the Earth, but he rather was taught by Jesus Himself. Paul was not a “parrot” apostle who only delivered words that he heard from others. No, Paul the apostle heard the good news of salvation offered by Jesus from Jesus. There was no purer gospel nor better source than Him. Although learning from the disciples might seem like a logical choice for Paul, he was guided by the Spirit of God to be taught by Jesus Himself.

The only exception other than Peter that Paul makes is, “save James the Lord's brother.” Almost as an afterthought in his mind, Paul recalls that he did make one other connection while he was in Jerusalem with the Lord's brother James. James who was one of the heads of the church in Jerusalem possibly met with Paul some time while he stayed with Peter. There is no indication by Paul that he was in Jerusalem to be taught by James or Peter, but rather he was there to visit them. His refutation of the teachings of the Judaizers who infiltrated the churches of Galatia was based upon his receiving the gospel from none other than Jesus, and the only encounters he had with the apostles was for visitation only.

Once again we have seen Paul emphasizing his time with the Lord alone. Rather than receiving all of his teachings from others, Paul saw it necessary to be alone with the Lord Jesus and learn from Him. We must remember that it was Jesus Christ who called Paul in the first place while he was on the road to Damascus. Paul's mission at at that time was to arrest and convict Christians, however Jesus had another idea in mind. Since Jesus called Paul, He was also able to equip him for service.

What about us? Have we taken time to listen to the Lord Jesus as He instructs us in His gospel? Do we tend to echo others in our salvation experience and “parrot” the gospel rather than know it for ourselves? Is there more about His gospel that the Lord Jesus would teach us should we take the time with Him? Perhaps as we reflect upon these strong persuasions of Paul to the church members in Galatia, we will hear the Holy Spirit directing us to “come aside” for a while and learn of Jesus Himself.

Next time Paul will confirm that he isn't lying about his background, so read ahead, and let us join together then.

Until tomorrow...there is more...

Look for the new devotional book “Equipped for Battle – From Generation to Generation” in all major

bookstore sites, www.amazon.com ; www.barnesandnobles.com ; download to e-books, and find it

locally at www.mrzlc.com/bookstore

Three Years Delay, Then Peter Galatians 1:18 - Equipped for Battle

The Judaizers have infiltrated the churches in Galatia and promoted the idea that having Jesus is good, but they must also be keepers of the Law of God. Paul the apostle is addressing this problem by first declaring his authority and then giving them a rehearsal of his background for his authority. We have already read that Paul did not confer with flesh and blood when he first accepted Jesus, nor did he go to the apostles right away. No, Paul went into Arabia where he learned the gospel directly from Jesus Himself. In chapter one and verse eighteen we discover more about Paul's first years in Christianity. He wrote:

Then after three years I went up to Jerusalem to see Peter, and abode with him fifteen days.

Notice first, “Then after three years.” Three years? Yes, three years before Paul made another move. Imagine the first time Paul sat and listened to Jesus explain the true gospel to him. Perhaps it was under the desert stars, or in a revelation or vision. We really are not told, but it must have been a fantastic time together. Then after Paul received his first lesson, there were only more. Jesus was with his disciples for three years before He was crucified, and now He was taking His time teaching Paul. No one knew or knows the gospel better than Jesus, and as Paul received from Jesus, The Professor, there was no better teacher in the world.

After the three years of teaching, Paul wrote, “I went up to Jerusalem to see Peter;” Can we imagine this first meeting? Here is a man who has the reputation of being a slaughterer of Christians meeting the man who was a leader among the disciples. Peter was trained by Jesus, and baptized by His Holy Spirit to the point that thousands were turning their lives over to Jesus. Paul was trained by Jesus in the desert, and though he once was a lost soul with lots of Biblical knowledge externally, Paul now a converted follower of Christ. We have some indication that Barnabas in the Bible brought Paul to the leaders in Jerusalem because they did not trust Paul, and it could be that this was the time for it, however, regardless of the details it would have been fun to be a fly on the wall and watch their first encounter.

Finally, Paul let's us know the amount of time he spent with Peter, “and abode with him fifteen days.” Fifteen days? That's quite a while for company, isn't it? Nevertheless, Peter and Paul were together for fifteen days conversing, working together, having discussions, eating together, and perhaps sharing stories about Jesus and His time with them individually. After that much time, they must have developed some sort of bond of closeness together. It was at least enough time that in a later chapter of this book we will read of Paul withstanding Peter to the face for certain behaviors with the Gentiles.

So, what about us? Do we spend time with Jesus? Do we let Him teach us of His gospel, according to His ways, and without regard to other people? Do we know His word, His fellowship, and His suffering and sacrifice for us well enough that when others ask us about them, we easily answer? How long has it been since we have simply shut down everything and everyone else and just listened to Jesus? Maybe as we ponder these words of Paul today, we shall come to know that sitting under the tutelage of Jesus will give us the greatest instruction of His gospel and give us the most favorable position to share it with others.

Next time Paul will tell us who else he went to see in Jerusalem, so read ahead, and let us join together then.

Until tomorrow...there is more...

Look for the new devotional book “Equipped for Battle – From Generation to Generation” in all major

bookstore sites, www.amazon.com ; www.barnesandnobles.com ; download to e-books, and find it

locally at www.mrzlc.com/bookstore

Paul's Godly Delay Galatians 1:17 - Equipped for Battle

Why does it seem that sometimes there is a delay when we desire to serve the Lord Jesus? Is it because we need training, teaching or experience? Do we need circumstances, situations or trials which must be endured before we fulfill our calling from God? As Paul the apostle addresses the church members in Galatia, we get an idea of the delay which he experienced as he was training in the ways of the gospel. We read previously that he did not go unto flesh and blood to receive his training, and in chapter one and verse seventeen we find more insight into Paul's actions when he first accepted Jesus Christ as his Savior. He wrote:

Neither went I up to Jerusalem to them which were apostles before me; but I went into Arabia, and returned again unto Damascus.

Paul says first, “Neither went I up to Jerusalem to them which were apostles before me;” When Paul was first converted to Jesus Christ, we might think he should immediately go to the apostles to inform them. Let us remember that he was a Pharisee of Pharisees, and he was a zealous advocate for the Jewish religion. Wouldn't it be wise to let them know of such a marvelous conversion? Not according to Paul. He did not confer with “flesh and blood”. So just what did he do?

Paul wrote, “but I went into Arabia, and returned again unto Damascus.” Paul went to the deserts of Saudi Arabia. Perhaps he went to share with distant Gentiles, but more than likely went for further training in the gospel from the Lord Jesus Himself. Paul began right away preaching the gospel in the synagogue in Damascus, however, after only a few days of preaching, the people desired to kill him. (We read the account of this in the book of Acts in chapter nine and verses twenty through twenty-five.) They actually let him down the walls of Damascus by night to escape from the people's fury. So Paul left there for a while till the anger was subsided. But the marvelous tenacity of Paul is demonstrated as he returned to the very place they were trying to kill him, “returned again unto Damascus.” If we read much of Paul's accounts in the book of Acts we will discover that this was a common trait of his.

Paul didn't go to the hierarchy or well-known in the Christian religion when he was first saved. Namedropping and people of advantage seems to be a normal course of action when people are seeking advancement in a particular field, and it isn't much different when it comes to spiritual matters. For most people, they enjoy being taught from people who are “in the know”, and well-advanced in order to state that they have done so. We rather should be like Paul who sought the Lord as His teacher primarily. There may be others who are used by the Lord for training, but it is the Lord Himself from whom we should gain our knowledge of the gospel. When we set our eyes and ears upon Him, we shall have no greater training regardless of the credentials our teachers may hold.

Next time we discover more of Paul's delay after he received the grace of God, so read ahead, and let us join together then.

Until tomorrow...there is more...

Look for the new devotional book “Equipped for Battle – From Generation to Generation” in all major

bookstore sites, www.amazon.com ; www.barnesandnobles.com ; download to e-books, and find it

locally at www.mrzlc.com/bookstore

Not With Flesh and Blood Galatians 1:16 - Equipped for Battle

Paul the apostle has been addressing the members of the churches in Galatia because there were false teachers who were persuading them to believe that in order to truly be saved they must have faith in Jesus and obey the law. Paul employed his background as his basis to instruct them in the correct teaching once again. He told them it was God who was pleased to see that he be born, and it was God who called him by His grace. In chapter one and verse sixteen we see the reason and purpose God had for Paul's birth and calling. He wrote:

To reveal his Son in me, that I might preach him among the heathen; immediately I conferred not with flesh and blood:

Paul says God's first reason for him being created and called was, “to reveal his son in me.” If Paul was ever to be effective in the kingdom of God, it would first have to begin within him. Jesus had to be disclosed, made known and manifested to Paul before he would ever preach the gospel. Far too often many people try to preach the gospel of Jesus Christ without ever knowing Him themselves. It was God's pleasure to save Paul by revealing His Son to him, and then he used him as a preacher of the very grace he received.

Paul adds, “that I might preach him among the heathen;” The word “heathen” means, “a multitude, a company, troop or swarm. A tribe, nation, human family or people group”, and it is often used by Paul to describe the Gentiles. Paul's mission given by God was to preach the gospel to the Gentiles. Though Paul attempted to share the gospel of Jesus Christ with his fellow Jews, they often rejected him. However, the Gentiles often received Paul's words and became believers in Jesus Christ.

In addition to Jesus being revealed to Paul and his being called to preach to the Gentiles, Paul tells the members of the churches of Galatia, “immediately I conferred not with flesh and blood:” In other words, Paul did not go to other believers for a discussion about his faith. He did not seek their advice or direction, nor did he receive any instruction from them. Paul went directly to God. When we consider this idea perhaps we should apply it to ourselves. Far too often we seek the counsel of others before we consider God about a subject. Who among us has not heard or used this phrase, “Well, I tried everything else, and then I prayed...” Rather than being our first action, we often go to the Heavenly Father after we have exhausted all other means. Paul's method should inspire us all to receive from the Lord Jesus first, and then employ advice from our friends. By the way, it was over three years before Paul did the same. Maybe we should allow a little waiting time for God to answer us too.

Next time we discover more of what Paul did after he received the grace of God, so read ahead, and let us join together then.

Until tomorrow...there is more...

Look for the new devotional book “Equipped for Battle – From Generation to Generation” in all major

bookstore sites, www.amazon.com ; www.barnesandnobles.com ; download to e-books, and find it

locally at www.mrzlc.com/bookstore

Paul Called by God's Grace Galatians 1:15 - Equipped for Battle

With the background of some people we may wonder if they could ever have a relationship with God. However, when we trace Paul the apostle's background along with his testimony, we will discover that the grace of God is available to everyone. Paul has been called by God and given the task to be the apostle to the Gentiles of whom the churches in Galatia are a part. Because of false doctrine infiltrating the church, he has been addressing those who have begun to believe these false teachers. The credentials he has given us thus far in the first chapter have led us to Paul's real reason for his relationship with God. He tells us in verse fifteen of chapter one:

But when it pleased God, who separated me from my mother's womb, and called [me] by his grace,

First, Paul previously referred to his excellence in Jewish studies, and his zeal for his then known religion. Although he was one of the top in his class, he knew this was not enough for his salvation. He wrote: “But when it pleased God, who separated me from my mother's womb.” Paul knew the origin for his existence. It was God's pleasure that Paul even be born. No one decides on their own whether they shall be born or not. None of us had anything to do with that decision. Paul knew the idea written in the book of Revelation in chapter four and verse eleven:

You are worthy, O Lord, to receive glory and honor and power: for you have created all things, and for your pleasure they are and were created.

God created Paul, and it was His pleasure to “separate” him from his mother's womb.

Secondly, Paul says that God, “called me by his grace.” Not only was it God's pleasure to see that Paul exist, it was also God who called him by His grace. God's “unmerited favor” was shown toward Paul when He gave him the opportunity to have a relationship with Him. Paul did not earn his birth, nor did he earn his salvation. Paul's excellence in his field, his super-abounding zeal, and his dedication to his religion were not enough to save him. He needed more, and God supplied the extra. No amount of work or greatness on Paul's behalf would ever be enough to obtain the call of God upon Paul's life. Paul needed the grace of God as does anyone who comes into a relationship with Jesus Christ.

From where did we obtain our birth? Did we decide it, or did someone else have that responsibility? If we are in a relationship with Jesus Christ, how did we obtain it? Do we think it was by our own efforts and strong will, or did we obtain it by the unmerited favor of God? Do we consider ourselves called by God, and if so, how did we receive that call? Perhaps as we ponder Paul's background and his call from God we will consider our own, and as we reflect, we shall see that an abundance of the grace of God has been flowing and will flow toward us for all of our existence.

Next time we see what Paul did after he received the grace of God, so read ahead, and let us join together then.

Until tomorrow...there is more...

Look for the new devotional book “Equipped for Battle – From Generation to Generation” in all major

bookstore sites, www.amazon.com ; www.barnesandnobles.com ; download to e-books, and find it

locally at www.mrzlc.com/bookstore

Paul More Exceedingly Zealous Galatians 1:14 - Equipped for Battle

In proving his authority and identification with the members of the churches in Galatia, Paul offers his background before he met Jesus Christ. Paul uses where he came from to demonstrate where he was brought to when referring to the gospel of grace which he preached. He already wrote about his persecuting and wasting the church, and today he adds more to his resume' in chapter one and verse fourteen where he wrote:

And profited in the Jews' religion above many my equals in mine own nation, being more exceedingly zealous of the traditions of my fathers.

Paul first wrote: “And profited in the Jews' religion above many my equals in mine own nation”. The word “profited” means, “to go forward, advance, proceed” which means Paul was ahead of his class. Paul was a Pharisee, which meant that he would have memorized the first five books of the Bible - Genesis through Deuteronomy, in order to qualify. Not many can meet such a feat even today, however, Paul excelled in the Jew's religion.

He adds, “being more exceedingly zealous of the traditions of my fathers.” Not only was Paul a great student of the Jew's religion, he was also much more zealous which means, “more abundantly, greater in degree, more earnest, in burning zeal. Ready to defend and vehemently contend for a thing.” Paul not only was ready to defend his faith, but he would take measures beyond those of his peers to be sure it was not altered. We should remember that this is the background for Paul's conversion to Jesus Christ and the gospel which he afterwards promoted.

What about our background? Would we say that we excelled above our class in what we used to believe? If there was a way to measure how adamant we were about our beliefs in the past would people easily identify us as a “zealot” for it? Perhaps some who are reading these words are adamantly defending what they believe or don't believe right now? And it could be that the reason they are reading these words is because Jesus Christ desires that they know Him and the gospel that Jesus came to give. If either of these cases are so, the rest of the teaching within this book is going to be of particular interest because it only gets better from here.

Next time we see the grace of God at work in Paul's life, so read ahead, and let us join together then.

Until tomorrow...there is more...

Look for the new devotional book “Equipped for Battle – From Generation to Generation” in all major

bookstore sites, www.amazon.com ; www.barnesandnobles.com ; download to e-books, and find it

locally at www.mrzlc.com/bookstore

Paul Persecuted the Church? Galatians 1:13 - Equipped for Battle

One of the interesting parts to studying the Bible is to discover the background of people whom God used to write His word. In the case of Paul the apostle, there is a wonderful story to his conversion to Christianity. As he addresses the problem of false teachers who have infiltrated the churches of Galatia, he gives us some insight into his past. He wrote in chapter one and verse thirteen:

For you have heard of my conversation in time past in the Jews' religion, how that beyond measure I persecuted the church of God, and wasted it:

Paul first says, “For you have heard of my conversation in time past”. The idea behind the word “conversation” is not simply an exchange of words between two individuals or groups, but rather his “manner of life, conduct, behavior, deportment.” It was the way Paul lived. Most people who have read some portion of the Bible know of Paul's conversion on the road to Damascus as recorded in the book of Acts in chapter nine, however, it is interesting to study Paul's past life according to his personal testimony. Paul knew the church members in Galatia had heard of his background, so he begins his discourse with what they know.

Paul adds, “in the Jew's religion.” Paul knew the Jewish religion because his origins were there. He told the Philippian church in chapter three and verses four and five of the book of Philippians that he was, “Circumcised the eighth day, of the stock of Israel, [of] the tribe of Benjamin, an Hebrew of the Hebrews; as touching the law, a Pharisee;” Paul knew the ins and outs of the Jewish faith, and those who were bringing their doctrine to the Galatians had no better training than he.

Paul then turns his attention toward his behavior against the church of God. He wrote, “how that beyond measure I persecuted the church of God, and wasted it:”Paul knew his past, and no one had exceeded his efforts to stop the church of Jesus Christ. His word against the church was “beyond measure” or exceedingly strong, determined, and resolute. We read in Acts chapter nine and verse one and two,

“And Saul, yet breathing out threatenings and slaughter against the disciples of the Lord, went unto the high priest, And desired of him letters to Damascus to the synagogues, that if he found any of this way, whether they were men or women, he might bring them bound unto Jerusalem.”

Paul, who was then known by his Hebrew name Saul, was determined to stop the church of Jesus Christ, and he had no problem persecuting anyone who belonged to the church.

Paul adds that he, “wasted it” which means that he desired to “overthrow or destroy” it. He was adamantly opposed to the church because he believed himself to be doing the work of God to get rid of it. Obviously Paul was wrong, and still, he has no problem allowing transparency to be in his life as he instructs the members of the church in Galatia. We might wonder why he would show such vulnerability? We shall have to wait until our next verse to discover it. So,...

Next time we see more of Paul's background in the Jewish religion. Read ahead, and let us join together then.

Until tomorrow...there is more...

Look for the new devotional book “Equipped for Battle – From Generation to Generation” in all major

bookstore sites, www.amazon.com ; www.barnesandnobles.com ; download to e-books, and find it

locally at www.mrzlc.com/bookstore

By the Revelation of Jesus Christ Galatians 1:12 - Equipped for Battle

Paul the apostle has heard that false teachers are promoting another gospel in the churches of Galatia. He marveled that they were so soon removed from the gospel he previously taught them, but from where did Paul receive this gospel he has been speaking of during the beginning of his writing to the Galatians? We really don't have to guess because Paul provides his source in today's verse found in chapter one and verse twelve where he wrote:

For I neither received it of man, neither was I taught [it], but by the revelation of Jesus Christ.

First, Paul addresses where he did not receive his gospel: “For I neither received it of man, neither was I taught it,”. Ideas and thoughts generally transfer from one person to another. Originality does transpire from time to time, but most education has a foundation of “what this one said” or “what that one discovered.” Rarely do people do more than parrot others thoughts. Paul knew this. He knew there were teachers who had contrived ideas about the gospel who passed them one to another. From one man to another, one teacher to a student, the gospel of the Judaizers infiltrated the Galatian countryside, and when it did, the church members ascribed to their thoughts.

Paul was unique. Although he previously was taught by man, as he stated in the book of Acts in chapter twenty-two and verse three:

I am verily a man [which am] a Jew, born in Tarsus, [a city] in Cilicia, yet brought up in this city at the feet of Gamaliel, [and] taught according to the perfect manner of the law of the fathers, and was zealous toward God, as you all are this day.

Paul didn't receive the gospel of Jesus Christ from the formal teaching of men. No, rather, Paul says: “but by the revelation of Jesus Christ.” There is no greater teacher than Jesus. When God is the source of your information, there is no greater pinnacle of education. Ideas received from Jesus about His gospel are clear, unabated, and without flaw. Ideas from men often are. Paul expresses the superiority of his source when he tells of his message coming by revelation of Jesus Himself. There is no greater authority concerning the gospel of Jesus Christ than God, and when Paul perceived this gospel, all who heard and received from him would know they had the truth.

So, from where do we receive our information? Is it only from others? Do others guide our thinking, our plans, our direction? If so, we would be wise to be sure of their source. Many people are misled by well-meaning individuals who desire purpose and position in others lives, however, they are following ideas and thoughts that are derived from sources other than the Bible. We would be advantaged today if we would purpose in our hearts and minds as Paul did not to rely upon any author of ideas who receives their information from people or books who do not make God Almighty and His gospel the background and foundation of their functioning in life. We too, as Paul, will find no greater authority than Jesus and His Holy Spirit to guide us in our lives.

Next time we see the background of Paul with the church, so read ahead, and we shall join together then.

Until tomorrow...there is more...

Look for the new devotional book “Equipped for Battle – From Generation to Generation” in all major

bookstore sites, www.amazon.com ; www.barnesandnobles.com ; download to e-books, and find it

locally at www.mrzlc.com/bookstore

Gospel Not after Man Galatians 1:11 - Equipped for Battle

Over the last few verses in the first chapter of Galatians, we have studied the measures Paul the apostle has taken to be certain that the churches of Galatia know from where he stands concerning the gospel of Jesus Christ. Because Judaizers have infiltrated the church and are preaching a gospel of works and obedience to the law, Paul found it necessary to address their teachings. In verses eight and nine of the first chapter, Paul went so far as to desire that those who promote these other teachings be accursed, and in verse ten he stated his desire to please God rather than men. In verse eleven we see Paul turn to the source of his gospel where we read:

But I certify you, brethren, that the gospel which was preached of me is not after man.

Paul begins with the word, “But”. Whenever we see the word “but” in the Bible we can be assured that the word or words that follow it take precedent over the words before. For example, in the gospel of John in chapter sixteen and verse thirty three Jesus said, “These things I have spoken unto you, that in me you might have peace. In the world you shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world.” In other words, there will be bad things that occur in the world, “but” Jesus has over come them. Jesus' overcoming takes precedent over anything we might face in the world. Paul previously made a statement about pleasing God rather than men, and in comparison to where these false teachers received their doctrine, Paul said, “But I certify you, brethren” which means he wants them to know, recognize, gain knowledge of, and be informed that what he is about to say takes precedent over them.

Paul continued, “that the gospel which was preached of me is not after man.” Paul had the privilege of hearing his gospel directly from God, and he preached no other gospel than the one he heard. Often men will gather together and brainstorm their ideas of how people should or should not follow God, and their ideas are many times off track. However, Paul sat under the tutelage of Jesus Christ, and as one born out of due season, he received the gospel of Jesus Christ directly from Him. We shall read more about this in later verses within this chapter, but suffice it to say that the origin of Paul's doctrine was superior to the ones being promoted by the Judaizers of that day. Paul's words are urgent, and their importance is transcendent if the church members in Galatia are to continue in the true doctrine of grace.

What is the source of our gospel? Is it others and their opinions? Is it from the news, magazines or books? Where do we receive the information that becomes doctrine within our lives? Perhaps as we consider the defense that Paul makes for the origins of his doctrine we will examine the source of ours, and when we do, if it is other than the Holy Spirit of God in agreement with His word, maybe we will alter our minds to be set upon the teachings of God rather than upon the teachings of men.

Next time we see more about where Paul received his gospel, so read ahead, and we shall join together then.

Until tomorrow...there is more...

Look for the new devotional book “Equipped for Battle – From Generation to Generation” in all major

bookstore sites, www.amazon.com ; www.barnesandnobles.com ; download to e-books, and find it

locally at www.mrzlc.com/bookstore

Persuade Men or God? Galatians 1:10 - Equipped for Battle

Paul the apostle has spoken authoritatively in the first few verses of the book of Galatians. He began with an introduction which included a statement about his authority, a blessing of grace and peace, and the gospel message that Jesus gave himself for our sins to deliver us from this present evil world. However, though Paul gave God the Father and Jesus His Son glory for giving this good news, there were those among the churches in Galatia that were perverting his gospel. He emphatically wrote, “Let them be accursed” in the previous two verses of our study, and today he continues his thoughts about this matter in verse ten in chapter one where he wrote:

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.

Paul wrote in a rhetorical manner, “For do I now persuade men, or God?” The idea behind the word “persuade” is to “induce by words to believe, to make friends of, win one's favor or gain one's good will.” Paul presents this argument for the Galatians to consider: Who do you think that I want the favor of - God or men? Paul's answer is hidden within the question. His implication is that there is no comparison between pleasing God and men. This perhaps is the reason that he is so direct in his comments when he accursed those who pervert the gospel. Paul was not necessarily seeking the favor of man, but rather the favor of God.

Paul also includes in this verse, “or do I seek to please men? for if I yet pleased men, I should not be the servant of Christ.” There were teachers among the Judaizers who were known to be pleasers of men. They promoted ideas that elevated men and women in the eyes of others such as “look how holy this one is or that one is because they keep the law” or “this one is more holy than that one because they do this holy thing and the other person doesn't”. Is it not amazing how people measure their holiness against one another? Paul wrote in Second Corinthians in chapter ten and verse twelve:

For we dare not make ourselves of the number, or compare ourselves with some that commend themselves: but they measuring themselves by themselves, and comparing themselves among themselves, are not wise.

Paul says that his attention is upon God. His aim is to please the Heavenly Father. He knows that to try to please men would mean that he was the servant of men. Paul, rather, was a servant of Jesus Christ. He would not void his servant relationship with Christ by substituting it for a lesser role of serving men. Paul's focus and life was upon pleasing the Lord, and it was the Lord Jesus only whom he would serve.

Who do we serve? Are we caught in the trap of seeking other's favor? Do we rely upon our own “self-worth” being established by whether we align with other's admiration or not? Do we conduct our business in such a manner that it will always please others even if it means a compromise to the gospel of Jesus Christ? Perhaps as we meditate upon these thoughts today we will discover areas where we desire that men favor us more than God, and when we do, let us alter our paths to align with the one who has the power to eventually say, “Well done thou good and faithful servant.”

Next time we see the source of Paul's gospel, so read ahead, and we shall join together then.

Until tomorrow...there is more...

Look for the new devotional book “Equipped for Battle – From Generation to Generation” in all major

bookstore sites, www.amazon.com ; www.barnesandnobles.com ; download to e-books, and find it

locally at www.mrzlc.com/bookstore

And Paul Repeats, Let Him be Accursed Galatians 1:9 - Equipped for Battle

The Bible is inspired by God and written by men. We read these words written by the apostle Peter in Second Peter chapter one and verse twenty one:

For the prophecy came not in old time by the will of man: but holy men of God spake [as they were] moved by the Holy Ghost.

So, when the Bible repeats something, we would be wise to pay particular attention to it. Paul the apostle has just expounded a curse upon any man, angel or even he and his brethren should they promote a gospel other than the one he first preached to the churches of Galatia. In chapter one and verse nine, Paul repeats this idea by writing:

As we said before, so say I now again, If any [man] preach any other gospel unto you than that you have received, let him be accursed.

Paul begins, “As we said before, so say I now again.” As though the first time was not sufficient, Paul forewarns his readers that he knows his words have already been written, however, they are important enough to be written again. Like a principled father, Paul informs his children that he know he has already said what he is about to say, but this should not cause his readers to numb their ears or ignore him in any manner. Rather these word should be paid particularly close deliberation, and the fact that they are repeated should cause the churches to know the seriousness of their application.

Paul continued, “If any man preach any other gospel unto you than that you have received, let him be accursed.” Once again the gospel of Jesus Christ is known to be exclusive, one minded, and without compromise. Paul said, “any other gospel”. There is no other gospel, no other way, no other name given among men whereby men and women may be saved. Though people promote their ideas and religions all over the world, Paul says, “let them be accursed.” The implication by Paul is dramatic and strong because he knows the eternal consequences for believing any other way.

The people of Galatia “received” the gospel that Paul first preached to them. They believed in the all sufficient grace of Jesus Christ to pay for their sins. However, those who would pervert the gospel came in and persuaded these new believers that there are additional requirements of God which have been added to the grace given by belief in Jesus Christ. Paul strongly, with authority and principle declares, “let him be accursed” which means “a thing devoted to God without hope of being redeemed...a person or thing doomed to destruction, a curse, a man accursed, devoted to the direst of woes.” Let everyone, everywhere, know that the gospel preached by Paul to the Galatians is still relevant today, and the warnings of Paul continue for anyone who dares to alter the gift of God that lies within it.

Next time we see what Paul says about pleasing men or God, so read ahead, and we shall join together then.

Until tomorrow...there is more...

Look for the new devotional book “Equipped for Battle – From Generation to Generation” in all major

bookstore sites, www.amazon.com ; www.barnesandnobles.com ; download to e-books, and find it

locally at www.mrzlc.com/bookstore

Another Gospel? Let Him be Accursed Galatians 1:8 - Equipped for Battle

Paul the apostle has been given authority by God to address the churches in the region of Galatia for error in doctrinal beliefs. Though Paul initially gave them the gospel of Jesus Christ which meant good news for all who believed, Judaizers had infiltrated the churches with additional requirements regarding the keeping of the law. Paul has marveled that these young believers would be so so removed from the gospel, and he now addresses those who would pervert the doctrine of grace. He wrote in verse eight of chapter one:

But though we, or an angel from heaven, preach any other gospel unto you than that which we have preached unto you, let him be accursed.

The message of the gospel of Jesus Christ is so important that Paul includes himself in those who should be accursed should he change it, “But though we,”. As we read these words we can almost envision the pathos and urgency in his voice as he would implicate himself and those with him should he choose to promote any other gospel. The very idea that Paul would have himself accursed should make us take note of the distinction and exclusivity of the gospel he has preached.

Paul next includes angelic beings, “or an angel from heaven”, in his list of those who should be accursed should they change the gospel of Jesus Christ. In Second Corinthians chapter eleven and verses thirteen and fourteen Paul wrote:

For such [are] false apostles, deceitful workers, transforming themselves into the apostles of Christ. And no marvel; for Satan himself is transformed into an angel of light.

Paul knew the ploys of Satan to alter the only path to a relationship with God. He knew that there are spiritual beings who could transform themselves into agents of doctrine, and unaware people could be deceived by their pernicious words. Paul states that this angel, should there be one, should be among those who are cursed. From heaven and earth no being is to be exempt should he or she pervert the gospel of Jesus Christ.

Finally, as though Paul has not been strong enough in his declaration, he wrote: “preach any other gospel unto you than that which we have preached unto you, let him be accursed.” Public declaration of the good news of Jesus Christ is the greatest proclamation of all. Paul was an apostle, a “sent out and separated” one, for the gospel of Jesus Christ. Everywhere he went he shared the good news of how Jesus Christ came to save people from their sins. His preaching was without compromise, and the message he presented in the beginning of his ministry was no different than the one he proclaimed at the time he wrote to the Galatians. Should anyone alter that message, “let him be accursed”. The word “accursed” in the original Greek language is “anathema” which means: “a thing devoted to God without hope of being redeemed...a person or thing doomed to destruction, a curse, a man accursed, devoted to the direst of woes.” Paul was not playing games with those who dare change the gospel. To be banished and accursed from God would be a fate that no one should or would ever desire, and we might think that by this time Paul's message is clear. However there is more, but we shall wait until next time to discover what Paul continues to say.

Next time we see Paul repeat his curse upon anyone who brings another gospel, so read ahead, and we shall join together then.

Until tomorrow...there is more...

Look for the new devotional book “Equipped for Battle – From Generation to Generation” in all major

bookstore sites, www.amazon.com ; www.barnesandnobles.com ; download to e-books, and find it

locally at www.mrzlc.com/bookstore

Not Another Gospel Galatians 1:7 - Equipped for Battle

Paul the apostle has begun his discourse to the churches of Galatia. Paul was marveling at the Galatians as his attention is given to the fact that some “other gospel” has been believed by the memberships. Judaizers added to the finished work of Jesus Christ upon the cross as a sacrifice for our sins and were promoting the idea that the law of God must also be kept by them. The absence of people keeping the law was the reason that Jesus came in the first place. People could not keep the law, and only Jesus did. In verse seven of chapter one Paul adds:

Which is not another; but there be some that trouble you, and would pervert the gospel of Christ.

Paul notes first, “which is not another;”. Jesus made it very clear when He was on the Earth that there was only one way to God the Father: “I am the way, the truth and the life. No man comes to the Father but by me.” Peter said in Acts chapter four and verse twelve: “Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved.” These who had come in among the churches of Galatia were promoting another way.

Paul adds, “but there be some that trouble you, and would pervert the gospel of Christ.” We can relate to Paul's statement here. There are those who come around today and present something different than what Paul initially spoke concerning the gospel. They say, “you must join our church, do these tasks, say these things, and not do other things.” This is nothing different than the teachings of the Judaizer's of old. Paul says these “trouble you.” In other words they are troublemakers, and because they add all these burdensome tasks, people are confused and often misled to believe additions to the “Good News” of Jesus Christ. Legalism is promoted even today as people continue to try to “earn” their salvation. This is not “good news”. In fact, it is a “perversion” of the gospel of Christ.

We must be careful to know that our salvation is based upon what Jesus did for us and not what we do for Jesus. We cannot have “Jesus and...” as a basis for our salvation lest we be as the Galatian churches were. It would behoove us today to take an inventory and ask ourselves, “Have we become legalistic about a saying, a task, an action or habit that if were we not to keep it, we would feel “unsaved?” Perhaps as we take inventory we may find “another gospel” within our own lives that needs to be addressed and removed as we align ourselves back to the true basis of our salvation.

Next time we see Paul curse anyone who brings another gospel, so read ahead, and we shall join together then.

Until tomorrow...there is more...

Look for the new devotional book “Equipped for Battle – From Generation to Generation” in all major bookstore sites, www.amazon.com ; www.barnesandnobles.com ; download to e-books, and find it locally at www.mrzlc.com/bookstore

So Soon Removed Galatians 1:6 - Equipped for Battle

 

After such a wonderful introduction to the churches in Galatia which included Paul's authority given by God the Father and our Lord Jesus Christ, acknowledgment of his brethren, a greeting of grace and peace, and a presentation of the gospel of Jesus, we might be waiting with bated breath to see what Paul is going to share with these churches. However when we read his words we quickly realize that Paul is greatly concerned for the doctrine that is being believed by them. He begins his discussion in chapter one and verse six where we read:

I marvel that ye are so soon removed from him that called you into the grace of Christ unto another gospel:

Paul is amazed as he begins his words: “I marvel”. The word “marvel” means to wonder, and as a father looking over his children Paul wonders how these spiritual kids of his could be “so soon removed from him that called.” After Paul had presented the gospel of Jesus Christ, others moved in to change the very doctrine he espoused. People called Judaizer's were prevalent in those days, and their doctrine included obedience to the law in addition to accepting Jesus Christ as Savior. Interestingly enough, those who choose to come against the gospel of Jesus Christ usually prey upon those within the churches to promote their teaching. Rather than go to the world, their efforts are to persuade church members that what they believe is inaccurate, and since most new believers are unfamiliar with the holy scriptures, they are often convinced. Satan himself is known to appear as an “angel of light”, and no doubt he has his hand in these false teacher's efforts.

Paul's marvel is that these within the churches of Galatia have left the very God who called them, “removed from him that called you.” It was God who called these believers in the first place, for no man can come to the Father except the Spirit draw him, and still they left the doctrines of God. How easily people have their beliefs altered when false doctrine comes in. What has been established for years may be changed by one teaching that twists the words of the scriptures to appeal to human reasoning. Often these words are accompanied by heighten emotional charge that seems to bring validity to the doctrine, and when audiences sway with the feelings of the moment, they alter not only their doctrine but also their cognitive powers. Paul gently, yet directly, addresses the demagoguery of this way.

Paul adds, “into the grace of Christ unto another gospel:”. The wonder of Paul's day was much like today. Why is it that people are prone to believe teachings other than “the grace of Christ” so easily? It seems that “unmerited favor” just doesn't sound reasonable, and there seems to be a pressure to somehow earn salvation. Rather than trust in the completed work of Jesus Christ upon the cross for our sin nature, many think their good behavior will get them into heaven. The “gospel” means “good news”. It is good news that Jesus Christ has already paid for our sins. It is good news that there is nothing more that needs to be done to accomplish salvation. “It is finished” was the keynote phrase of Jesus as He died upon the cross, and when He gave His last breath, sin's price was paid. His substitutionary sacrifice for our sins was complete, and nothing can be added to it. This is why Paul marveled at these members of the churches of Galatia. How could they trade the gospel of Christ for “another gospel”? Well, we shall have to wait to our next verse to consider that question ourselves.

Next time we will discover more about these troublemakers to the gospel of Jesus Christ, so read ahead, and we shall join together then.

Until tomorrow...there is more...

Look for the new devotional book “Equipped for Battle – From Generation to Generation” in all major bookstore sites, www.amazon.com ; www.barnesandnobles.com ; download to e-books, and find it locally at www.mrzlc.com/bookstore