Paul continues his narrative account of receiving the gospel, informing the church and apostles in Jerusalem and now the impact of Peter coming to Antioch and withdrawing from the Gentile believers. The implications of this withdrawal by Peter impacted the other Jews in Antioch and even impacted Barnabas, whom those in Antioch would have known well and trusted. This break causes Paul to confront Peter publicaly and explain again, his gospel emphasis, the Gentiles do not need to become Jewish proselytes to become followers of Jesus. The
gospel message is not only for the Jews or a proselyte of Judaism, the
gospel is available for all. Paul warns Peter and these believers not to
deviate from the truth of the gospel. The gospel is not about doing or
your merit, but believing, which will lead to transformation. Faith is
our means of deliverance, not merit.
The major theme of Galatians is the gospel – the message of salvation! What is it? Who is right about the means of salvation? In order to fully address this vital issue, Paul is going to address the subjects of Jesus, the Holy Spirit, faith, justification, freedom, the law and the implications of these in our daily living. Galatians is not a book offering believers the ultimate license to live however they please. Galatians is instead an explanation of all that we possess through the glorious gospel of Jesus and the implications of it for our daily lives. The gospel is given and intended to change us, to shape us more into the image of Jesus. By God’s grace, we can understand the truth of the gospel and be transformed by it.
Graceway Church of Michiana exists in South Bend, IN for the purpose
of Exalting our great God and Savior, Edifying and Encouraging believers
and Engaging our Community. Graceway Church is committed to being a God Exalting, Christ Centered, Spirit Motivated, Word Focused local body of Believers!
