Vv. 28-31 God made us - who believe in Christ - the children of promise like Isaac, the child by the free woman, and the citizen of Jerusalem above. God unilaterally proclaimed the promise and gave her faith to realize, and believe, in this promise. Through this faith, she was able to look to God alone. He saw the faith and accepted us as the children of promise. All this was possible only by his grace, not by our deeds. Therefore, what we can do now is thank him and praise the wonderful love of God, who has set us free.
What lesson is God teaching me?
V. 12 Paul pleads with the people in Galatia to become like him. He also lived under the slavery of the law in the past, but he became a free man after he experienced the gospel. Therefore, he pleads with the believers in Galatia to be free from the law and to worship God with love. Who do you wish to share with the glory of the gospel that you have experienced? Pray for him/her and earnestly share with him/her the grace of the word.
Vv. 12-15 Paul’s physical illness was critical enough to disrupt his ministry of the gospel. But the people in Galatia did not look down on him or place blame on him. Instead they accepted him as an angel of God or Christ Jesus himself. They also loved him enough that, if they could, they would have torn out their eyes and given it to him. What is the weakness of the leaders in our community? Can you embrace their weakness, accept them as gifts from God, and welcome them?
Vv. 16-18 Paul proclaimed the truth of the gospel with sincere passion for their salvation, even when the Galatians did not like his lessons of truth and treated him like an enemy. The false teachers had very strong support from people in Galatia and worked hard to be popular. What is the passion of my ministry for? Is it to make one more follower of Christ or is it to gain and keep my own followers? Have passion in bringing glory to Christ, and Christ alone.
Let me have a good relationship with the leaders who teach the word. Help us grow together in you.
