The Gospel Stands Alone | Galatians 3:4

Did you suffer so many things in vain—if indeed it was in vain?— Galatians 3:4

CALL OUT: Call out to Randy Cook from Mendota Heights, MN, who is taking some big steps of faith by reconciling some issues of the past. This is what men do. This is what we all need to do. Step into something hard today.

Remember, Paul poses several questions in Galatians 3:1-6. With each, he builds a list of logical fallacies against the reasoning of the false teachers. This one points to the fact that living by faith comes with suffering. Contrary to the belief of some, faith does not absolve human suffering even though it does alleviate eternal suffering. Faith in Jesus always assumes we suffer here even though we won't suffer there. Therefore, Paul's point is suffering in faith would be all for nothing if they try to manufacture a Gospel that attempts to alleviate suffering.

In every generation, popular teachings attach trendy ideologies to the Gospel: it could be legalism, scholasticism, colonialism, prosperity, and equity. Each has had its time and was presented as a "better" Gospel that promised to relieve our suffering or the suffering of another. But the Gospel doesn't need our help. It never needs to be made "better." We don't need to make it more relatable, acceptable, or believable. It stands alone. It is accepted by faith alone. It is full of grace alone. It is better left alone. And yes, there is temporary suffering that comes with faith. So we must all accept this, too.

#FaithfulEndurance #GospelTruth #SufferingForFaith #StandAloneGospel #GalatiansReflections

ASK THIS:

How can we ensure that our faith remains steadfast in the face of societal pressures and popular ideologies that seek to distort the Gospel message? Reflect on a time when you were tempted to compromise your faith for the sake of cultural acceptance or personal comfort. How did you overcome this temptation, and what lessons did you learn from the experience?

DO THIS: Accept your salvation. It stands alone.

PRAY THIS: Lord, help me to stand firm in my faith, even in the midst of suffering and temptation to compromise. Grant me the strength and wisdom to uphold the purity of the Gospel message and remain steadfast in Your truth. Amen.

PLAY THIS: Salvation is Your Name.