Galatians 6:11-18
Reflect
There is a constant temptation for us, and perhaps the church at large, to naturally turn the gospel into the cross plus something else. As we approach the end of Galatians, we see that the Judaizers were persistent in convincing the need for circumcision, but what was their motive? They didn’t want to get persecuted (v12). It wasn’t just the Romans, but also the Jews who were known for stoning and persecution (eg. Stephen).
At the core root of it, the comprised gospel stems from their fear. They were afraid of the other Jews and what they would say and do to them if they found out they were worshiping along with the Gentiles.
Following Christ is a cost that needs to be counted. It was a cost that needed to be counted by the Galatians, and a cost that we need to count. At times we may fear judgement from others, being uncomfortable, and facing challenges. Nonetheless, we are to live in true abandonment so that the gospel may rest powerfully in and through us. To contrast the Judaizers, we need to live by faith, not fear.
Apply
God changes us from the inside out. Is the Lord inviting you to count the cost by surrendering something that is holding you back from following Him more closely?
Pastor Nathanael
Pray
- Pray for our childcare team, the children and their families this week. Pray for the Director, Angie.
- Pray for our Lead Team Pastor, Terry Okken and his family.
- Pray for our Missions Ministry Assistant, Oleksandr Lushchyk.
- Pray for our Evening Event Hosts, Ethan Okken and Noah Okken