By Sam Nobles
As the Apostle Paul closes out
this letter, he leaves the Galatians some final instructions about the
practical application of grace, specifically that liberty in Christ involves
responsibility inside the lines of two spiritual laws.
The Law of Christ (v.1-5)
Those who are "spiritual"
are to restore or help out those who are struggling with sinfulness. This is to
be done carefully because anyone is capable of committing any sin and ending up
in the same shape. Paul furthered this by calling on the Galatians to bear one
another's burdens. By doing this Paul said they were fulfilling the "law
of Christ" (v.1-2). It is easy to point out the flaws in others,
that is why Paul instructed that each Christian should examine him or herself and
not rely on others to point out your flaws (v.3-5).
The Law of Sowing and Reaping (v.6-10)
The responsibilities of Christian liberty and grace involve sharing
resources with those who were teachers (v.6). Believers are responsible to support
their Christian teachers. In this context, the meaning is to share in
the material things of life, as well as with prayer. Paul reminded the
Galatians of the agricultural principles of "sowing" and "reaping",
particularly as it relates to the flesh and Spirit (v.7-8). The Apostle knew
this was not an easy task; therefore, he encouraged the believers to not become weary in doing good,
especially for the household of faith (v.9-10).
Paul's ending remarks hold
insight into the motivation behind the Judaizers who were pushing circumcision.
These false teachers were seeking to glory in the flesh, but Paul only saw
glory in the cross of Jesus Christ (v.11-14). Paul then recaps his whole letter in one
verse as he states that that circumcision is trivial, and being in Christ Jesus
is what really matters (v.15). The Apostle Paul closes this epistle with a
prayer of peace, mercy, and grace upon those who live according to the true
gospel, and upon Israel (v.16-18).
Scripture to
Claim:
“Do not be deceived: God is
not mocked, for whatever one sows, that will he also reap.” (Galatians 6:7
ESV)
