SCRIPTURE: GALATIANS 6
MEMORY VERSE:
“Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers.” (Galatians 6:9-10)
DOING GOOD TO ALL (vs. 1-10)
Advices of Paul to the Galatian Church:
- If someone is caught in a sin, you who are spiritual should restore him gently. But watch yourself, or you also may be tempted. (v. 1)
- Carry each other’s burdens to fulfill the law of Christ. (v. 2)
- Do not think of yourself as something when you are nothing. (v. 3)
- Do not compare yourself with somebody else. Test your own actions and carry your own load. (vs. 4-5)
- Anyone who receives instruction in the word must share all good things with his instructor. (v. 6)
- A man reaps what he sows. The one who sows to please his sinful nature will reap destruction. The one who sows to please the Spirit from the Spirit will reap eternal life. (v. 8)
- Do not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time you will reap a harvest if you do not give up;. (v. 9)
- If you have the opportunity, do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers. (v. 10)
NOT CIRCUMCISION BUT A NEW CREATION (vs. 11-18)
Paul’s farewell speech:
Those who want to make a good impression outwardly are trying to compel you to be circumcised. The only reason they do this is to avoid being persecuted for the cross of Christ. Those who are circumcised did not even obey the law, yet they want you to be circumcised that they may boast about your flesh. For me, I never boast except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, through which the world has been crucified to me and I to the world. Neither circumcision nor uncircumcision means anything; what counts is a new creation. Peace and mercy to all who follow this rule even to the Israel of God.
Finally, let no one cause me trouble, for I bear on my body the marks of Jesus. The grace of our lord Jesus Christ be with your Spirit, brothers, Amen.
THOUGHTS:
TEACHINGS OF PAUL TO THE GALATIAN BELIEVERS:
- Be humble, help the fallen, encourage those in despair, comfort the broken hearted and bring blessings to fellowmen.
- Assess yourself honestly instead of comparing yourself with others. Follow the example of Jesus Christ and seek to please God alone.
- Take care of the financial and physical needs of the teachers and spiritual leaders with a generous spirit. Show honor and appreciation for all they have done.
- Sow good seeds that will bear fruits and show good testimonies to others.
- Keep on doing good and trust God for the results. For in due time you will reap a harvest of blessings.
- Ask God to get rid of the cultural pressures, destructive influences and worldly prejudices that may affect your faith in Christ.
- Be firm in your belief that Jesus Christ had set us free from the bondage of sins and from some forms of legalism that leads to slavery. Use your freedom to live for Christ and serve Him faithfully.