In Galatians 4:12–20, Paul steps out from behind the role of apostle and theologian and speaks as a pastor and friend whose heart is breaking for his people. This episode looks at his personal appeal to the Galatians—how he reminds them of their shared history, exposes the motives of the false teachers, and models a kind of leadership that serves, suffers, and tells the truth even when it costs him.
In this week’s episode, we explore:
- How this passage marks a change in tone in the letter, as Paul moves from argument to affection, pleading with the Galatians as people he loves
- What Paul means when he urges them, “become as I am, for I also have become as you are,” and how his willingness to live like a Gentile displays gospel-shaped freedom and humility
- The story behind Paul’s “bodily ailment,” how the Galatians first welcomed him despite his weakness, and why their joyful gratitude for the gospel seems to have faded
- Paul’s piercing question, “Have I then become your enemy by telling you the truth?” and what that reveals about the cost—and necessity—of honest, loving correction
- How the false teachers “make much of” the Galatians in order to shut them out and win them over, and why spiritual flattery and exclusion are such powerful tools of manipulation
- Paul’s contrasting posture as a spiritual parent, “in the anguish of childbirth” until Christ is formed in them, showing leadership that is willing to suffer rather than control
- The way peer pressure and the desire to be “inside the circle” can draw believers toward a distorted gospel that confuses spiritual authenticity with rule-keeping
- Five leadership principles that emerge from Paul’s example:
After listening, you’ll come away with a more personal sense of Paul’s heart for the Galatians and a clearer picture of what Christlike leadership looks like in the church.
Series: Galatians: Living by Faith
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