Gospel Message

​Galatians 1:1-5 Paul, an apostle – sent not from men nor by man, but by Jesus Christ and God the Father, who raised him from the dead – 2 and all the brothers with me, to the churches in Galatia: 3 Grace and peace to you from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ, 4 who gave himself for our sins to rescue us from the present evil age, according to the will of our God and Father, 5 to whom be glory for ever and ever. Amen.
 
GALATIA is a region of Asia Minor where Paul established churches at Antioch, Derbe, Lystra and Iconium on his first missionary journey. This is a circular letter addressed to these churches and likely others that were formed.
    Paul begins with an affirmation of his ministry credentials. He needs to affirm he is God’s messenger to the church. After all, there were many who attacked Paul’s gospel message by criticizing the messenger. This is one tactic to defeat the truth. The Pharisees continually attempted to oppose Jesus’ message by denying his authority as the Son of God. Paul confirmed he is one sent by Jesus Christ and God the Father, who raised him from the dead.
    Paul apostolic authority could be verified. Acts 9 records the details of Jesus’ call on Paul’s life. The Scriptures – the Old Testament – also testify Jesus of Nazareth is God’s Son. Jesus’ work on earth, the empty tomb and the hundreds of witnesses who saw the resurrected Lord add to the clear evidence that Jesus has come to earth. He is risen to sit at God’s right hand. Paul’s apostleship is based an historical fact.
    With this affirmation, Paul begins to return the Galatian churches to the gospel. Reminded they are hearing from God’s messenger, the churches would begin to focus on his teachings. This should alert them to listen closely to the rest of the letter.
    The first thing they will read is a blessing: Grace and peace to you from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. Grace from God is his magnificent gift to forgive sins and welcome us into his Kingdom. God’s peace soothes our souls to comfort us in all circumstances. Jesus is God’s gracious gift of peace to us. The Son of God gave himself for our sins. Jesus is Savior, who has rescued us from the present evil age. Jesus did this according to the will of our God and Father. Because of his eternal gift, God the Father will receive glory for ever and ever.  “Amen” emphasizes this is the truth.
          Emphasizing the truth is always essential, isn’t it? External and internal influences can quickly affect our faith if we lack true teaching. Be deaf to those who attempt to discredit him. Listen to the Truth. His name is Jesus. History records he has come in the Father’s will and the Spirit’s power to extend God’s grace and peace to the world. Are you prepared to listen to Jesus’ message?