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Galatians: Rescued & Recruited – Week 2
Mike Wilson
Galatians: Rescued & Recruited – Week 2
Despite the trials and tribulations many of us face, it’s crucial to remember that joy is a choice. While it’s okay to grieve and struggle, we mustn’t allow ourselves to remain stuck in negativity. Instead, we must actively choose joy, celebrating the good things that God is doing in our lives.
The Gospel: Good News Indeed
17 But suppose we seek to be made right with God through faith in Christ and then we are found guilty because we have abandoned the law. Would that mean Christ has led us into sin? Absolutely not! 18 Rather, I am a sinner if I rebuild the old system of law I already tore down. 19 For when I tried to keep the law, it condemned me. So I died to the law—I stopped trying to meet all its requirements—so that I might live for God. 20 My old self has been crucified with Christ.[a] It is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me. So I live in this earthly body by trusting in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.
The Christian message is often referred to as the gospel, which simply means “good news.” Unlike other religions that preach a message of works-based salvation, Christianity offers a radically different perspective. In Christ, we find freedom from the burden of trying to earn our way to Heaven. Instead, salvation is a gift bestowed upon us by a gracious and loving God.
Living by Faith, Not by Works
In the past, many of us may have fallen into the trap of trying to earn God’s favor through adherence to religious laws and regulations. However, as the Apostle Paul eloquently explains in Galatians, our righteousness does not come from our own efforts to obey the law. Rather, it comes from placing our faith in Jesus Christ, who lived a perfect life on our behalf.
Understanding the Role of Faith
Faith is more than just acknowledging the existence of God; it’s about trusting in Him for our salvation. Just as believing a doctor’s diagnosis of cancer is only the first step towards healing, so too is believing in Jesus Christ the initial step towards salvation. It’s not our belief that saves us, but rather God’s grace working through our faith.
Contrasting Christianity with Other Belief Systems
Unlike the ladder-climbing mentality prevalent in many other religions, Christianity offers a unique message of grace and redemption. While other belief systems emphasize human effort and merit, Christianity proclaims that salvation is a free gift available to all who place their trust in Jesus Christ.
Rejecting Legalism and Embracing Grace
Oh, foolish Galatians! Who has cast an evil spell on you? For the meaning of Jesus Christ’s death was made as clear to you as if you had seen a picture of his death on the cross. 2 Let me ask you this one question: Did you receive the Holy Spirit by obeying the law of Moses? Of course not! You received the Spirit because you believed the message you heard about Christ. 3 How foolish can you be? After starting your new lives in the Spirit, why are you now trying to become perfect by your own human effort? 4 Have you experienced[a] so much for nothing? Surely it was not in vain, was it?
The temptation to rely on our own efforts for salvation is ever-present, even within the church. However, Paul’s admonition to the Galatians serves as a powerful reminder that our righteousness is not dependent on our adherence to the law. Instead, it comes through faith in the finished work of Jesus Christ on the cross.
Invitation to Accept God’s Grace
For those who may feel unworthy or undeserving of God’s grace, know that there is no sin too great to be forgiven. Regardless of past mistakes or shortcomings, all are invited to experience the transformative power of God’s love and grace. Salvation is not earned; it is received through faith in Jesus Christ.
As we reflect on the profound truth of salvation by faith, may we be reminded of the incredible privilege we have as children of God. Let us embrace this good news with joy and gratitude, knowing that we are saved not by our own efforts, but by the unmerited favor of our loving Heavenly Father.
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