Tuesday 25 January 2022
- Bible Book:
- Galatians
For I want you to know, brothers and sisters, that the gospel that was proclaimed by me is not of human origin; for I did not receive it from a human source, nor was I taught it, but I received it through a revelation of Jesus Christ. (vs 11-12)
Background
Paul grew up a devout Jew, and was enthusiastic, wishing to get everyone in line, including the believers (Christians) of his time. He was intolerant of the Jewish believers who did not conform to Judaism, accusing them of spreading a new religion and he was willing to persecute them ((v. 13). As time went on, Paul encountered Jesus and this changed his life, attitude and priorities (v. 16). The Church he sought to destroy had become significant. He then realised that adherence to every rule of Judaism was not sufficient to pay the price of his redemption.
When Paul encountered Jesus, he prioritised this relationship over approval of his peers by focusing on knowing the person of Jesus, through the study of scriptures and spending time in prayer, in worship and in solitude (v. 17). He eventually established his roots in his newly found faith, and discovered his calling as the apostle to the Gentiles. This discernment process took Paul three years, and then he visited Peter and James in Jerusalem. Paul was certainly not a lone ranger, because accountability and fellowship with other believers were important to him.
All the time Paul invested in solitude, in silence, in study and in prayer paid off. His transformation became a subject of discussion among many believers, including those who never met him (v. 22). Paul became an ally and the threat of imprisonment was gone. They heard about the great work of the Holy Spirit in his life and his life reflected that.
To Ponder:
- Do people observe in me a transformed life, attitude and love for my saviour?
- Do I seek to please God or people?
- Do I spend enough time with Jesus to get to know and please him?
- How important is fulfilling God's purpose in my life?