by Dr. Paul Jehle
“Paul, an apostle (not from men nor through man, but through Jesus Christ and God the Father who raised Him from the dead), and all the brethren who are with me, to the churches in Galatia” – Galatians 1:1-2
The Apostle Paul is the author of this book. His story is one of intrigue, and his testimony of encountering Christ is one that changed history for sure!
The audience to whom this book is written are the Galatians; a variety of distinct congregations scattered over ancient Gaul. Though there are discussions as to whether it was written to the northern (as far away as the Celts in the British Isles) or southern (more local) sections, its message is for all.
Paul (his Greek name meaning “small”) or Saul (Hebrew name meaning “prayed for”) wrote in this book about the meaning of grace. He certainly understood both extremes of legalism and licentiousness.
Legalism is attempting to be approved by performance in one’s own strength. In this case we want to be approved by God based on our works. However, we are not saved by works, but by grace.
Licentiousness is thinking that God does not care how we live or behave, for He approves of us because He made us and is our cheerleader. This is not true either because grace gives us the ability to keep righteous standards, not avoid them.
The book lays the foundation that a direct encounter with God is imperative if we are to walk with God. If we attempt to live the Christian life without God Himself, we are departing from grace.
Though we must individually walk with God, we cannot do so without others as well. We are work in teams.
When we received the Holy Spirit, we were given this gift within our hearts by the grace of God, not because we earned it. If we earn the Spirit, then we are simply built up in pride.
Though we receive the gospel by grace, we need to be discipled in how to live the Christian life by principles. Grace fulfills the Law, it does not oppose it.
Finally, we are to stand fast in the liberty of grace, We are also to learn how to grow through the principle of sowing and reaping. Let us learn these lessons together!