Freedom in Christ: A Devotional on Galatians 1:1-2:21
November 11
Scripture: Galatians 1:1-2:21 (NIV)
In Galatians 1:1-2:21, the apostle Paul writes to the churches in Galatia to address a serious issue that was threatening the foundation of the Gospel message. False teachers had infiltrated the churches and were promoting a distorted version of the Gospel, teaching that salvation comes through adherence to the Jewish law and circumcision. Paul passionately defends the true Gospel of grace and freedom in Christ, emphasizing that salvation is by faith alone, apart from works of the law.
One important verse from this passage is:
Galatians 2:20 (NIV):
"I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I now live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me."
This verse encapsulates the heart of Paul's message in Galatians: the believer's identification with Christ's death and resurrection and the transformative power of faith in Him. Paul emphasizes that our old self, with its sinful nature and bondage to the law, has been crucified with Christ, and we are now new creations in Him. Our lives are to be lived in complete dependence on Christ, who lives in us through the indwelling of the Holy Spirit.
In the context of Galatians 1:1-2:21, Paul rebukes the false teachers who were leading the Galatian believers astray with their legalistic and works-based theology. He affirms that salvation is a gift of God's grace, received through faith in Jesus Christ alone.
Paul recounts his own testimony of encountering Christ and receiving the revelation of the Gospel directly from Him, apart from human influence or tradition.
Furthermore, Paul confronts Peter for his hypocrisy in separating himself from Gentile believers out of fear of the circumcision group. He challenges Peter to live in accordance with the truth of the Gospel, which declares that all believers, regardless of their background, are united in Christ and are heirs of the promise of salvation.
As we reflect on Galatians 1:1-2:21, let us consider how this passage applies to our lives today. Let us recognize the freedom and grace that we have received through faith in Christ and the call to live lives that reflect His love and truth. May we reject any form of legalism or works-based righteousness and instead embrace the gift of salvation by grace through faith.
Prayer:
Heavenly Father, we thank You for the gift of salvation through faith in Your Son, Jesus Christ.
Help us to live in the freedom and grace that You have provided, not by our own efforts or works, but by Your unmerited favor. Give us the courage to stand firm in the truth of the Gospel and to reject any form of legalism or false teaching.
May we live our lives crucified with Christ, and may His love and grace be evident in all that we do.
In Jesus' name, Amen.
