Galations 3 - 2.18.26
Scripture
You foolish Galatians! Who has bewitched you? Before your very eyes Jesus Christ was clearly portrayed as crucified. I would like to learn just one thing from you: Did you receive the Spirit by the works of the law, or by believing what you heard? Are you so foolish? After beginning by means of the Spirit, are you now trying to finish by means of the flesh? (Galatians 3:1-3)
Observation
Generally Paul uses a gentle fatherly tone in his epistles, lovingly correcting the church. Galatians is an exception, where Paul uses a harsh tone, calling the Galatians “foolish” and asking them, who “bewitched” them. We might wonder what was the big sin that Galatians committed to deserve such treatment. The Galatian Christians were trying to “earn” salvation by adopting Jewish legalistic rituals like circumcision, observing special days (Sabbaths, months, seasons), and following dietary restrictions.
Paul reminds them that salvation is obtained only by faith in the finished work of Jesus on the cross. Abraham’s faith was credited to him as righteousness (Gal 3:6).
Application
The Bible must be studied in context and as a whole. The reference to faith for salvation and righteousness does not take away our individual responsibility to live a holy life, or to have the right works after salvation. Faith without works is dead (James 2:26). If the faith in our hearts is not reflected in the way we live, it is not a true faith.
James quotes the same verse about Abraham quoted in Galatians 3:6 and says Abraham’s faith was demonstrated in his obedience. Abraham was considered righteous for what he did when he offered his son Isaac on the altar, and his faith and his actions were working together, and his faith was made complete by what he did (James 2:21,22). James continues to say that a person is considered righteous by what they do and not by faith alone (James 2:24).
Let us check our hearts to see if our trust in our salvation is because of our faith in being washed by the blood of Jesus alone. Our good works are not going to save us. Only faith in Jesus can save us. Let us check our lives to see if we are living a holy life, as He has commanded us “be holy as I am holy” (1 Peter 1:16). When we stray in sin, by thought, word or deed, let us be quick to repent and come back to the Lord.
Prayer
Dear Father, thank you for sending Jesus to die in my place for my sins. Thank you Jesus, for washing me with your blood,, and making me your child. My confidence is in you alone (Prov 3:26). Help me to live a life that pleases you. If there is sin in my life, please help me to hear the gentle convicting voice of your Spirit, so that I can repent and get right with You. May my life be a living sacrifice holy and acceptable to You (Rom 12:1). In Jesus’ name. Amen.
Asha Chacko George
