Day 272 – Galatians: Authenticity of the Gospel

“Dear brothers and sisters, I want you to understand that the gospel message I preach is not based on mere human reasoning. I received my message from no human source, and no one taught me. Instead, I received it by direct revelation from Jesus Christ.” Galatians 1:11-12 NLT

Read Galatians 1:1 to Galatians 2:21

In response to attacks from false teachers, Paul wrote to defend the authority and authenticity of the Gospel. The Galatians were beginning to turn from faith to legalism under the influence of religion. The struggle between these two topics is still a very relevant issue. Many today would have us return to trying to earn God’s favour by following rituals or obeying certain rules. Doing this, we are boxing ourselves in as slaves to the world, but we are set free. To preserve our freedom, we need to stay close to Jesus Christ in relation and resist those who promote subtle ways for us to “earn” our salvation. It’s a gift that was freely given.

We become Christians through the work of the Holy Spirit. He brings new life; even our faith to believe is a gift from him. He instructs us, guides us, leads us, and gives us power, ensuring that we operate in our divine freedom through Jesus Christ. He ends our bondage to evil desires and creates in us love, joy, peace, and many gifts, resulting in the fruits we bear. Just as we are saved by faith, not deeds, we also grow by faith. By believing the Good News, we have the Holy Spirit residing within us, helping us live for Christ. Obey Jesus by following the Helper he sent.

The truth, authority, and authenticity of the Gospel lie in the foundation that we are saved from God’s judgment and the penalty for sin by God’s gift of Grace to us. We receive salvation by faith – trusting in Him – and not by anything else. Since our acceptance by God comes by believing in Jesus Christ alone, we must never add to or twist this truth. Our God is alive. Jesus rose for us. That’s authority. That’s authenticity. And that’s the truth.

Prayer: Father, thank You that the Bible proves the identity, authenticity, and truth of who Jesus is and what He has done for us multiple times over. Thank You, that we know Your Word is truth and that You are a promise keeper and not of Your words will return to You void but will accomplish what You have sent it forth to do. Even in us. Amen.