Galatians 1
OGCBIBLE STUDY TEXTBOOK SERIES GUIDANCE FROM GALATIANS
DON EARL BOATMAN
Paraphrase by James MacKnight Word Studies by Kenny Boles College Press, Joplin, Missouri
Copyright © 1961 Don Earl Boatman
Revised 1976 Copyright © College Press Publishing Company
To my mother and father who gave to us children the priceless gift of a knowledge of God’s Word, pure, simple, and without denominational names, creeds or customs. With deep affection, I dedicate this book of my faith and conviction, to my parents, with the hope that I can give to others a portion of what these have given to me.
FOREWORD
This new edition contains the best features of the original book with several additions which we know will prove helpful. Professor Kenny Boles has developed a section on Greek word studies. These strengthen the previous work. I have also added some special English studies and outlines to make the book more useful than before. The Book of Galatians is a very important doctrinal book in the New Testament and Christians should study it in depth. This edition will help to clarify New Testament truth for the readers, as we refer to the original language in many places.
Don Earl Boatman
Study of the Scriptures in the original Greek can often sharpen our focus on the meaning. The Greek word studies are added here to help make the message of Galatians more vivid and more precise. A Special Study on the Works of the Flesh and the Fruit of the Spirit can be found at the end of this book. To assist the English reader, the Greek words are first transliterated into English, and then written phonetically. The accented syllable is written with capital letters. It is my fervent hope that these word studies will lead you to understand God’s Word more clearly, and to follow God’s Will more completely.
Kenny Boles
PREFACE
The Book of Galatians is an inspiring book to read and to study. It is a doctrinal book with logic to challenge the thinking person, and with truth to edify those who are confused on the subject of the Christian’s relationship to the old covenant. I have not spent time on the North Galatian Theory. The truths of the book are applicable to all men. The works of the flesh are to be avoided by all men east, west, north and south while the fruits of the Spirit are to be enjoyed by men everywhere. The notes of this book were first developed in my early years of teaching in Minnesota Bible College. I appreciate the inquiring minds who helped me to search for the profound truth of the Gospel. Mrs. Donald Fream, Professor in Ozark Bible College, worked laboriously to make the manuscript worthy of a typist’s labors. Mrs. Russell Watts, the wife of a minister, and mother of two small sons, worked sacrificially as the typist. If this book is valuable, Don DeWelt who urged and prodded me to write it should receive credit beyond the comprehension of all who have never published a book. I pray earnestly that the readers may find this book to be practical, and that through the study of it they will come to a greater appreciation of the one great book which alone is inspired.
GENERAL INTRODUCTION TO THE EPISTLE TO THE GALATIANS
I.
TO WHOM WRITTEN. This is a unique epistle in that it is written to a group of churches. It is not to a single congregation, nor to a city people, but to the churches of a district: Galatia.
A.
The Location.
It was in central Asia Minor.
The province was one part of the district.
B.
The History Before Paul.
The Territory.
a.
It originally belonged to the Phrygians.
b.
Certain tribes of Gauls (French) in their restless conquest-loving spirit invaded the land. These tribes tried to overrun Greece, but were repulsed and settled in this area, which bore their name eventually.
The Dates of Important Events.
a.
They originally settled about 279 B.C.
b.
In 189 B.C., they were conquered by the Romans, but allowed to keep their own king.
c.
In 25 B.C. their self-government was taken away.
The Division of the Galatians.
a.
They were divided into three tribes, each occupying sub-districts.
b.
The cities of Tavium Persinus and Anarya (now Ankara) were their capitals.
C.
The People.
The Race.
a.
The majority were of the Celtic race, ancestors of the modern French, Welch, Irish, and Scotch.
b.
Phrygians, Greeks, Jews and Romans also settled there.
Language.
a.
The main language was Greek, the universal language.
b.
They also retained the Gallic tongue until the fourth century, when, according to Jerome, they could converse with the French.
Character.
a.
Julius Caesar says, The infirmity of the Gauls is that they are fickle in their resolves and fond of change, and not to be trusted.
b.
Thierry says, Frank, impetuous, impressible, eminently intelligent, but at the same time extremely changeable, inconsistent, fond of show, perpetually quarreling, the fruit of excessive vanity.
c.
Paul says, I marvel that ye are so quickly removing from him that called you in the grace of Christ unto a different gospel. O foolish Galatians, who did bewitch you, before whose eyes Jesus Christ was openly set forth crucified? (Galatians 1:6; Galatians 3:1)
D.
Paul’s Experience With The Galatians.
Paul and company set sail to Perga in Pamphylia. Acts 13:13
a.
Lycaonia, Pisidia, Pamphlia, and a large part of Phrygia were in Galatia.
b.
The letter here may have been to the northern Galatians.
c.
Probably Antioch, Iconium, Lystra and Derbe were the churches, for these were in Paul’s journey on his first visit.
Paul’s visit among them is recorded in detail in Acts 14:1-28.
His journey through Phrygia and Galatia is recounted in Acts 16:6; Acts 18:23.
II.
THE PAULINE AUTHORSHIP.
A.
Stated. Galatians 1:1
B.
Indicated. Galatians 6:11
III.
THE DATE.
A.
The dating is not scientifically accurate as yet.
B.
It was written after his visit of Act 18:23, which occurred about 54-58 A.D.; therefore, 57 A.D. is about right.
IV.
THE PLACE OF WRITING.
A.
Macedonia is a possibility.
B.
Corinth is a possibility.
V.
THE PURPOSE OF WRITING.
A.
To Overcome the Influence of Judaizing Teachers.
B.
To Establish His Apostleship.
The Judaizers felt the necessity of destroying Paul’s influence.
They sought to do this by denying that he was an apostle of Christ.
VI.
THE RELATION OF THE EPISTLES OF GALATIANS AND ROMANS.
A.
The relation of the Law to the Gospel is discussed in both.
B.
Justification by obedience to God by faith in Christ and not by works of the Law is discussed in both.
STUDY QUESTIONS
Why is this a unique epistle?
Where was Galatia located?
What was the nature of the people of Galatia?
What was Paul’s experience with them?
Where in Acts do we read of Paul’s preaching to them?
Did Paul make an effort to prove that the epistle was from his hand?
How many times did Paul visit them?
Tell of the apparent purpose of this letter.
How is Galatians related in subject matter to Romans?
QUESTIONS ON GALATIANS, CHAPTER ONE True - False
Paul was an apostle of men and called by men.
This letter was sent to the people at Corinth from Galatia.
Paul was astonished that the brethren had removed from the faith.
A teacher of false doctrine should be considered as anathema.
Paul boasted to the Galatians that he had always been a minister of Christ.
Paul had been a zealous teacher of the Jewish traditions.
As widely as Paul traveled, it is strange that he never visited Arabia.
Paul says he visited Jerusalem after a three year period. (Galatians 1:18)
Paul’s stay at Jerusalem lasted 15 days.
While is Jerusalem Paul met most of the Apostles and was straightened out doctrinally.
The Galatian letter was directed to one Church in Galatia.
Only an angel from heaven had a right to change Paul’s Gospel.
Paul stated that it was impossible to please all men and still be a servant of Christ.
Paul was chosen from his mother’s womb.
Paul was not known by face to the Churches at Judea as stated in chapter one.
Accursed, means to give over to the judgment of God.
Paul was very liberal with commendations as he begins the Galatian letter.
Paul was not chosen at the time Matthias was selected to take Judas-’ place, hence he was not an apostle.
Paul being reared in Tarsus and having Roman citizenshipwas never very strong in the Jewish faith.
An apostle is one who rules over a large diocese.
Romans and Galatians do not show any resemblance doctrinally although they are from the same author.
Paul denies that he ever persecuted the Church.
The Galatians had their faults, but they never questioned Paul’s apostleship,
Paul was driven from Damascus by persecution.
The Galatians were Gauls who were predominantly Irish.
Paul was advanced in religion beyond many of his own age.
QUESTIONS ON GALATIANS, CHAPTER ONE Completion
The book of Galatians was written to the _______________.
The author of the Book was _______________.
The author marvels that they were so quickly _______________.
The Book says the false teacher is to be _______________.
Paul says the gospel he preached was not received of man, taught by man, but came to him through _______________.
Paul says he did not confer with flesh and blood but went away into _______________.
Paul says when he finally went up to Jerusalem he went up to visit _______________.
Paul says that he persecuted the Church of _______________.
When Paul made his short visit up to Jerusalem he says he saw none of the other apostles save _______________.
The relative of the Lord that Paul saw was _______________.
Galatians 1:1-2
PART ONEANALYSIS PAUL’S DEFENSE OF HIS APOSTLESHIP AND HIS GOSPEL 1:1-2:21
A.
INTRODUCTION. Galatians 1:1-10
Personal Greeting. Galatians 1:1-5
a)
Source and Agency of his Apostleship. Galatians 1:1
b)
His Association in the Gospel. Galatians 1:2
**TEXT 1:1, 2
(1) Paul, an apostle (not from men, neither through man, but through Jesus Christ, and God the Father, who raised him from the dead), (2) and with all the brethren that are with me, unto the churches of Galatia:
PARAPHRASE 1:1, 2**
1 Paul an apostle, not sent forth from any society of men, neither appointed by any particular man, but by Jesus Christ, and by God the Father, who raised him from the dead, and after his resurrection sent him from heaven to make me an apostle; 2 And all the brethren who are with me, to the churches of Galatia. These brethren, by joining me in this letter, attest the truth of the matters I am going to relate.
**COMMENT 1:1
an apostle**
MeaningOne Sent Forth.
a.
They were chosen by Christ and ordained by God.
b.
They had power to work miracles.
c.
They were inspired. Cf. John 16:13
Qualifications.
a.
They were to be a witness of the resurrection. Acts 1:21-22
b.
Their office ceased with their death.
Work.
a.
Their work was pre-eminently that of founding churches.
b.
They were sent to preach and make disciples.
not from men, neither through man
It was urged against Paul that he was just a messenger of other apostles.
Paul claimed he received his apostleship from the Lord. Cf. Acts 20:24; Galatians 1:12; Galatians 1:17; Acts 9:6; 2 Corinthians 11:5.
but through Jesus Christ
It was from Jesus on the Damascus road; hence, there was no human mixture.
He was not to be known as a preacher from Tarsus but an apostle of Christ.
and God the Father
Requests are to be made of God for workers. Matthew 9:37-38
And God hath set some in the church; first apostles, second prophets, thirdly teachers. 1 Corinthians 12:28
who raised him from the dead
The ability to raise the dead identifies the true God.
The God that would raise Jesus would sanction the calling of an apostle from heaven.
The Resurrection won victory over law, sin, flesh, world, devil, death, and hell.
Paul does not say the God who created heaven and earth, but God who raised Jesusthis is His most important work.
WORD STUDY 1:1
An apostle (apostolosah POSS tah loss) is literally one sent forth. Early usage included a wide variety of applications, such as: a ship sent on a mission, a bill of lading, a personal written message. An interesting passage in Herodotus mentions the apostolos as a herald of the king sent to conclude a truce. What these all have in common is that they carry the authority of the sender.
In the New Testament a very special application is made of apostolos. Jesus chose the Twelve and gave them power and authority, sending them out as ambassadors plenipotentiary (with full power to act in behalf of their king) John 20:21-23. These men, including Paul, were chosen and sent forth by Jesus himself. In the early church their authority was accepted as final and their writings as inspired. Paul will spend two full Chapter s of Galatians establishing the fact of his apostleship in this sense.
There was also a general use of apostolos which corresponds to our word missionary. Several men are called apostolos in this general sense: Barnabas in Acts 14:14, Andronicus and Junias in Romans 16:7, Silas and Timothy in 1 Thessalonians 1:1; 1 Thessalonians 2:6. Such men were sent forth by the church, instead of by Jesus himself.
**COMMENT 1:2
all the brethren**
A probable list would include Titus, Timothy, Silas, and Luke.
And there accompanied him as far as Asia, Sopater of Beroea, the son of Pyrrhus; and of the Thessalonians, Aristarchus and Secundus; and Gaius of Derbe, and Timothy; and of Asia, Tychicus and Trophimus. Acts 20:4 See also Acts 21:16.
a.
In these days we can hardly afford to have even one evangelist for more than two weeks.
b.
Paul took crews with him and stayed until the work was established.
c.
Today, evangelism is done on the basis of How long can we, the church, stand his preaching and what can we afford?
The brethren are not named probably because the Galatians were familiar with Paul’s co-workers, either through personal visits or through correspondence.
unto the churches of Galatia
Some things are conspicuous by their absence.
a.
No single word of praise.
b.
No commendation.
This is unlike the Roman epistle.
WORD STUDY 1:2
A church (ekklesiaek lay SEE ah) is literally a called-out assembly. This word was in common usage to refer to the town council of the Greek city-state. Each citizen had equal vote and full freedom of speech in this earliest form of democracy. See Acts 19:32.
The word was also common in the Greek Old Testament for the total community of Israel, whether they were actually assembled or not. In this context it acquired the special sense of the people of God. In the New Testament ekklesia is used of the church in two different senses. There is the universal church, consisting of every child of God, as in Matthew 16:18, Ephesians 1:22, and Colossians 1:18. Most of the time, however, ekklesia is used of the local congregation. The plural usage in this verse points to all the congregations or assemblies throughout the province of Galatia.
STUDY QUESTIONS 1:1, 2
What did Paul claim for himself?
Define the term apostle.
Was Paul’s call a divine one?
Was Paul merely a preacher from Tarsus?
Tell who sent Paul.
Tell what God did to Christ to establish His authority to send apostles.
Find other scriptures that tell of the Apostle’s call.
Give a probable list of brethren with Paul when he greeted the Galatians in the letter.
How does this compare in size to our modern day evangelistic teams?
How does this salutation differ from other greetings in other epistles?
Galatians 1:3-5
c) Salutation Galatians 1:3-5
**TEXT 1:3-5
(3) Grace to you and peace from God the Father, and our Lord Jesus Christ, (4) who gave himself for our sins, that he might deliver us out of this present evil world, according to the will of our God and Father: (5) to whom be the glory for ever and ever. Amen.
PARAPHRASE 1:3-5**
3 We wish grace to you, and happiness from God the Father, and from our Lord Jesus Christ, by whom the Father dispenses his blessings to men. 4 Because he gave himself to death for our sins, that he might deliver us from the bad principles, and practices, and punishment of this present evil age, agreeably to the will of our God and Father, who determined to save us by the death of his son. 5 To whom, for that unspeakable favour, be ascribed by angels and men, honour and praise, through all eternity. Amen.
**COMMENT 1:3
Grace to you**
Favor to you is a single greeting stating that he was writing a friendly letter.
The grace is from God, or else Paul, a Jew, would not have had favor toward these indifferent Gentiles.
peace from God
Salaam (peace) is a typical oriental greeting, even today.
Real peace comes only through God and Christ.
a.
For he is our peace. Ephesians 2:14
b.
And he came and preached peace to you that were afar off, and peace to them that were nigh. Ephesians 2:17
This peace is not from the Emperor, or from kings, or from governors, but from God the Father.
Peace differs from grace in that:
a.
Grace remits sin; peace quiets the conscience.
b.
Grace involves remission; peace makes a happy conscience.
c.
Grace is God’s favor; peace dispels fear.
and from our Lord Jesus Christ
One can not be of Jewish faith and have the favor of God and Christ.
The grace and peace of Christ is in the picture.
PEACE FROM GOD 1:3
The peace greeting is characteristic of Paul. Peace is from God. There is no other way. Our age is characterized by the invention of innumerable devices to make us feel good without being good, to banish evil without quitting, to get the gifts of God without the need of God. As in the day of Jeremiah we have many false prophets who cry, Peace, peace, when there is no peace. Too many people are trying to get adjusted when they need to get converted. They are going to psychiatrists to have their sins explained when they need to come to God to have them forgiven. Peace is really a by-product of righteous living. Righteousness first; after that, peace. Will we ever learn it? It must be a great burden on the heart of God to listen to prayers for peace prayed by people who will not walk in the ways of peace. God can-’t save us from war except as He saves us from our sins. If you want to find peace get in Christ by grace, through faithpeace then comes as naturally as breathing. It is peace in the midst of storm. The world can not have peace without first living the life for the Prince of Peace. The Bible promises no peace to the transgressor. There is no peace so long as conflict is in the heart. There is no radiance without rightness, no peace of mind until there is peace with God. Don-’t pray for peace, but for rightness of heart. Pray not for peace, but for birth from above. Peace is the fruit of reconciliation. being made right with God.
GOD’S WONDERFUL GRACE 1:3
The subject of God’s grace is introduced early in the book. Men need the mercy and grace of God to escape condemnation. Condemnation is the exact opposite of justification. Since the latter means to declare one guiltless, the other means that one has heard the sentence Guilty. He is amenable to punishment and subject to death. One cannot be esteemed as guilty and guiltless at the same time, so those who are justified by faith and have gained access to grace are not under condemnation. There is no guilt assessed against them. They are free! That is grace beyond human understanding.
God’s act of grace is out of all proportion to Adam’s wrong doing. For if the wrongdoing of that one man brought death upon so many, its effect is vastly exceeded by the grace of God and the gift that came to so many by the grace of one man, Jesus Christ. (Romans 5:15)
The problem in Galatia was the legalism of false teachers. They wanted to place Christians under the law, or the old covenant. A legalist must have a law or he cannot survive. He breathes law like the human body breathes oxygen. If God provides no law, he will take what God has provided and convert it into law. The Galatians were bewitched by law observers. The problem is that legalists always exercise selectivity. They choose some features of the law to which they willingly submit, while ignoring others. But those which they choose then become the criteria of righteousness. To these men must conform even though they utterly neglect other valid and vital provisions of God’s will. Men who live and walk by law seldom have any idea of the restraint of perfect love. There must be a whip to crack. There must be threats issued and intimidation involved. Law is off the throne and Jesus is King. The transfiguration scene settled who was to be heededMoses. or the Law.
WORD STUDY 1:3
Grace (charisKAR iss) is in general usage that which causes pleasure or delight. In the doer of grace, it is the friendly disposition which brings happiness to others. In the receiver of grace, it is the sense of gratitude. The word is surrounded with happiness, warmth, and delight.
This aspect of delight must not be lost when we move to the New Testament, and define grace as unmerited favor. God not only gave salvation when we did not deserve it, but also was smiling when He did it!
Every epistle signed by Paul uses this majestic word in both the opening and the closing words. One additional feature of charis in New Testament usage should be noted. When grace is given, there is always responsibility attached. In fact, Paul could even point to his job assignment as an apostle as to me this grace was given (Ephesians 3:8).
Peace (eireneeye RAY nay) means absence of alienation or estrangement in Greek. It also has a rich background in Hebrew, where it means total well-being. (See further comments on Galatians 5:22)
The customary Hebrew greeting was shalom, peace. The standard Greek greeting was chairein (KY rine) rejoice. Paul modified this slightly into the Christian charis, grace. By combining these terms in the opening of every epistle, Paul was greeting both Greek and Jew in the family of God. The main thrust of his whole ministry was to usher in the Greek along with the Jew into fellowship in Christ (Ephesians 3:4-10).
The full force of Lord (kuriosKUR ee oss) is not appreciated by English-speaking people. Perhaps if we trace the word through its history and development, it will help.
The kurios was originally the owner of a piece of property. Next, the kurios was the owner and master of a slave. When the Greek mystery religions began to develop, kurios was used in reference to the deity they worshipped. To this point, then, the kurios was recognized as owner, obeyed as master, and honored as a god.
What happened next had tremendous impact on the word. When the translators of the Old Testament encountered the divine name YHWH, they faced a problem. No one knew how to pronounce the sacred name, since the vowels were omitted. There was no way to transliterate the name from Hebrew into Greek, letter by letter. The solution was to translate YHWH as kurios!Thus, every time a Jew saw the word kurios, he thought of God Himself.
In light of all this, just think what a momentous confession it was to declare, Jesus Christ is Lord (Philippians 2:11).
**COMMENT 1:4
who gave himself for our sins**
He gave:
a.
Not gold, not a paschal lamb, not an angel, but self.
b.
Not a moral code, nor a new political scheme, but self.
He could have sent twelve legions of angels. Matthew 26:53
He gave Himself humbly. Philippians 2:5-8
He gave Himself by the laws of Sacrifice, Ransom, and Justice.
Note the temptations; observe Gethsemane.
from our sins
He did not give Himself for a crown, a kingdom, or our goodness, but for our sins.
Sin is not maladjustment, but terrible transgression. It means missing the mark.
a.
They are not small and insignificant, but mountainous.
b.
We are not good moral men but sinners.
c.
Hamartia, one of the Greek words for sins, catches all of us.
that he might deliver us
Man is lost; he does need saving; he does need help from God.
a.
He is a slave.
b.
He is a captive.
Too many people are not interested in salvation’s delivery because they do not feel there is anything to be delivered from, but there is.
a.
Creatures without reason. to be taken and destroyed. 2 Peter 2:12
b.
elements shall be dissolved. 2 Peter 3:8-11
c.
… they were judged every man according to their works. Revelation 20:13
… this is the second death, even the lake of fire. Galatians 1:14
… and if any was not found written in the book of life, he was cast into the lake of fire. Galatians 1:15
d.
e.
… the wrath of God. Romans 5:9
f.
… who delivered us from the wrath to come. 1 Thessalonians 1:10
from this present evil world
Even our nation, so-called Christian America, is evil.
a.
Hear the curses on the night air.
b.
Listen to the vileness in the shop.
c.
Check the lists of robberies, murders, and adulteries.
d.
Watch the gambling.
e.
Look at the abused little children.
This evil world will be destroyed and a new heaven and a new earth created. 2 Peter 3:8-13; Revelation 21:1
according to the will of God
Note these scriptures:
a.
1 John 4:10 Herein is love, not that we loved God, but that He loved us, and sent His Son to be the propitiation for our sins.
b.
Philippians 2:5-11 indicates the will of Christ.
c.
Gethsemane indicates the will of Christ.
The will of God is responsible for salvation for the righteous and punishment for the wicked.
our God and Father
The Fatherhood of God is for both Christ and man.
a.
Christ said to Mary Magdalene, Go to my brethren, and say unto them, I ascend unto my Father, and your Father; and unto my God and your God. John 20:17
b.
Pray ye our Father, are the Lord’s words in Matthew 6:9.
A Father loves
A Father provides
A Father protects
A Father gives
The will of God and Christ’s will are in accord.
THE CHURCH IS A HOLY PEOPLE 1:4
Christians are called out of ungodliness to be a separated and sanctified people. Christians in Paul’s day, called out of heathenism, were acquainted with evil, even in their forms of pagan worship. In Galatians 1:4 of this chapter, the Galatians are informed that they are called to be holy and blameless.
The biblical demand for holiness is insistent: You shall be holy for I am holy (Leviticus 11:44-45; Leviticus 19:2; Leviticus 20:7; 1 Peter 1:15-16). Says Paul, Christ sanctifies the Church that it may be without spot or wrinkle or any such thing, that she might be holy and without blemish Ephesians 5:27.
This holiness is a sharing of the divine nature (2 Peter 1:4). It is the fruit of the Spirit’s dwelling and acting, not only within the individual believer, but also within the redeemed community. It is an aspect of the fellowship of the Holy Spirit. Human personality and the Christian community were made to be indwelt by the Spirit of God, and they reach their potential only when they are.
OUR SINS 1:4
Millions of people are indulging in situation ethics rather than repenting from sin.
If a man will really study the Word of God and situation ethics he will find it impossible to ignore Galatians 5:16-21 with its condemnation of specified works of the flesh: adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lasciviousness, idolatry, witchcraft, hatred, variance, emulations, wrath, strife, seditions, heresies, envyings, murders, drunkenness, revellings, and such.
The Bible is avoided by those who do not want to avoid sin. Situation ethics declares that there are situations when the works of the flesh are fully acceptable. The new version might read something like this: The works of the flesh are adultery, unless you and your wife are not compatible; fornication, unless you are really in love, uncleanness, unless you just don-’t know any better; witchcraft, unless you were reared in Africa, wrath, unless you have inherited a temper from your parents; drunkenness, unless you are an alcoholic. When we begin making exceptions, we have no definite law or standard at all. Situation doctrine is also practiced. Situation doctrine is not a new game, for it has been played from the beginning of man. The rules are declared to be the same as situation ethics. It says that doctrine may vary according to situations. Jesus took note of this tendency among religious leaders. Sin is sin whether it be in the realm of morals or doctrine.
WORD STUDY 1:4
To deliver (exaireoex i REH oh) is literally to snatch out. It is more than merely to remove; it is to rescue from the power of. The book of Acts provides an excellent commentary on this word, using it in these ways:
The rescue of Joseph from his afflictions, Acts 7:10.
The deliverance of Israel from Egypt, Acts 7:34.
The rescue of Peter from prison, Acts 12:11.
The rescue of Paul from the temple mob, Acts 23:27.
The deliverance of Paul from the Jews, Acts 26:17.
The world (aioni OWN) of this verse should be translated age. The ancient Jews often spoke of two ages: the present age, full of evil and sinfulness, and the future age, full of righteousness and peace. The present age was in the grip of the Evil One, but the age to come was to be ruled by the Messiah.
As Christians, we remain physically a part of the physical world, but spiritually we have become participants of the age to come.
**COMMENT 1:5
to whom be the glory for ever and ever. Amen.**
God is to have all and Paul none, even though he has argued for his apostleship.
Glory means praise, honor, renown, distinction, brilliance and splendor.
If we fail to direct glory to God now, we will not have an opportunity to glorify Him in heaven.
Glory to God(Special exegetical outline)
Because it is commanded.
a.
Ascribe unto Jehovah, ye kindreds of the people, ascribe unto Jehovah glory and strength. 1 Chronicles 16:28.
b.
Ye that fear Jehovah, praise him, all ye the seed of Jacob, glorify him; and stand in awe of him, all ye the seed of Israel. Psalms 22:23.
c.
Let them give glory unto Jehovah, and declare his praise in the islands. Isaiah 42:12
Because it is due Him. 1 Chronicles 16:29; 1 Corinthians 6:20
Because of His holiness. Exalt ye Jehovah our God, and worship at his holy hill; For Jehovah our God is holy. Psalms 99:9
Who shall not fear, O Lord, and glorify thy name? for thou only art holy; for all the nations shall come and worship before thee; for thy righteous acts have been made manifest. Revelation 15:4
Because of His mercy and truth.
a.
Not unto us, O Jehovah, not unto us, but unto thy name give glory for thy loving-kindness, and for thy truth’s sake. Psalms 115:1
b.
And that the Gentiles might glorify God for his mercy. Romans 15:9
Because of His faithfulness and truth.
a.
O Jehovah, thou art my God; I will exalt thee, I will praise thy name; for thou hast done wonderful things, even counsels of old in faithfulness and truth. Isaiah 25:1
Because of His wondrous works.
a.
Insomuch that the multitude wondered, when they saw the dumb speaking, the maimed whole, and the lame walking, and the blind seeing: and they glorified the God of Israel. Matthew 15:31
b.
For all men glorified God for that which was done. Acts 4:21
Because of His judgments.
a.
Therefore shall a strong people glorify thee, a city of terrible nations shall fear thee. Isaiah 25:3
b.
I will be glorified in the midst of thee; and they shall know that I am Jehovah, when I shall have executed judgments in her. Ezekiel 28:22
c.
Fear God, and give him glory; for the hour of his judgment is come. Revelation 14:7
Because of His deliverance. Psalms 50:15
Because of His grace to others.
a.
And when they heard these things, they held their peace, and glorified God, saying, Then to the Gentiles also hath God granted repentance unto life. Acts 11:18
b.
… they glorify God. for the liberality of your contribution unto them and unto all. 2 Corinthians 9:13
c.
… and they glorified God in me. Galatians 1:24
CHILDREN IN THE FAMILY OF GOD 1:5
Christians are to consider themselves as children of God and therefore a part of a great family. We are the people of a God in a unique way through being born again and adopted into His family. The idea of a people has rich biblical and especially Old Testament roots. Biblical Greek uses the word laos in referring to the church as a people. This word (from which we get laity) occurs more than 2000 times in the Septuagint, usually translating the Hebrew word -am. Laos is the word commonly used for Israel as God’s people; it serves to emphasize the special and privileged religious position of this people as the people of God.
In Old Testament, laos is the national society of Israel according to its religious basis and distinction.
In the New Testament, laos occurs some 140 times. It is the word both Paul and Peter use to describe the Church as a people, as the new Israel. Thus in the New Testament, a new and figurative Christian concept arises along with the old biological and historical view and crowds it out.
The Church is constituted a people just as an individual is constituted a child of God; by grace through faith in Jesus Christ. The converted individual becomes a part of a transformed people.
STUDY QUESTIONS 1:3-5
Does the word grace indicate friendliness?
What is the source of peace?
Would Paul have been so friendly to the Gauls if he were not of God?
Discuss what peace from God does for people who love barriers?
What does God’s peace dispel in the human heart?
Name the two sources of peace found in this verse.
The word who refers to whom?
Why did Jesus give Himself?
How does His sacrifice compare with Old Testament sacrifices?
Is it fair to assume that sin is horrible, if Jesus died for our sins?
Did Jesus give Himself, or did men kill Him?
Are all men sinners, or did He die for certain vile people?
Discuss the deliverance stated in verse four.
Why do we need it?
From what are we delivered?
What kind of punishment does the Christian escape?
What evidence do we have that our present generation is evil?
If we escape the punishment, what reward do we have in its place?
Whose will makes it possible?
Is divine will all that is necessary for salvation?
Define glory.
Who is to be glorified?
How long does the glory last?
Why does God deserve glory? Name the reasons.
Galatians 1:6-10
Occasion of the Epistle. Galatians 1:6-10
a)
Their removal unto a different gospel. Galatians 1:6-7
**TEXT 1:6, 7
(6) I marvel that ye are so quickly removing from him that called you in the grace of Christ unto a different gospel; (7) which is not another gospel: only there are some that trouble you, and would pervert the gospel of Christ.
PARAPHRASE 1:6, 7**
6 I wonder that ye are so soon removed from me, who called you into the gospel of Christ, which promises to sinners justification through faith; and that ye have embraced another gospel, or pretended message from God, concerning your justification: 7 Which is not another gospel, or message from God: But some there are, who, on pretence that their doctrine of justification by the law of Moses is authorized by God, trouble you with doubts concerning my doctrine, and wish to pervert the gospel of Christ.
**COMMENT 1:6
I marvel**
This is not awful condemnation, but surprise.
This is a severe blow to one who believes as Paul expressed it in Romans 8:35-38Who shall separate us from the love of Christ?
This is astonishing to one who believes in the Power of the Gospel and who has confidence in stability of man.
so quickly removing
Paul’s labors to train a church are being overthrown in a short while.
Christianity is to be a thing of permanence, not a mushroom affair.
This is the opposite of what is required for salvation.
a.
Be thou faithful unto death. Revelation 2:10
b.
If we hold fast the beginning of our confidence firm unto the end. Hebrews 3:14
from him that called you
They had changed their spiritual location by turning to another gospel.
When men accept falsehood, they remove themselves from God.
The calling is expressed in 1 Thessalonians 2:12; 1 Thessalonians 5:24; 2 Timothy 1:9.
Some insist that Paul is the one who called them, but Paul didn-’t say they were removed from him, but from Christ.
in the grace of Christ
Truth had placed them in favor; now false teaching had made them unfavorable.
This knocks the idea that sincerity alone is sufficient.
They were removed from grace: he does not say peace.
God surely does not save them if they are removed from His favor.
unto a different gospel
This gospel was Judaism mixed with Christianity.
a.
The Jew insisted on Jewish ceremonies for Gentiles.
b.
Paul establishes in this book that Judaism is not ever essential for Christians.
Think how awful then is Catholicism mixed with paganism and Judaism.
Protestantism, which is a mixture of paganism, Judaism, Catholicism, and Christianity, is likewise a different gospel.
INTO THE GRACE OF CHRIST 1:6
Amazing grace! how sweet the sound,
that saved a wretch like me!
I once was lost, but now am found,
Was blind, but now I see.
John Newton penned those words several years after his conversion. Blindness keeps men from seeing God’s love in Christ. Most of us are so nearsighted that we cannot really see how great is His love. The death of Jesus formed the foundation of God’s mercy. Jesus was crucified, died, was buried, and resurrected by God’s awesome power. And believers reenact that divine drama in immersion. But we cannot say to God, Now that I-’ve been immersed, you owe me salvation! Those are the words of one attempting to make baptism an act of merit. The forgiveness of sins associated with baptism is an act of pure grace. And the new relationship it symbolizes also rests upon God’s mercy. Cleansing is not a one time act.
Not only did the sacrifice of Christ initially save us from our former sins, but it continually cleanses us from our present daily sins (1 John 1:7-10). We have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous (1 John 2:1).
The cross of Christ satisfied the judgment of God against sin, so we don-’t have to be good enough to merit God’s grace. Our salvation did not result from our own attainments; it came by Christ’s atonement (Ephesians 2:8-9). And, once we become members of the family of God, we continue to walk by faith in Christ, through whom we have obtained this grace in which we stand (Romans 5:2).
Just as the non-Christian cannot buy his way into God’s family, neither can the Christian repay God for His adoption of him. Let every guilt-burdened child of God, memorize Paul’s words: For if, when we were enemies, we were reconciled to God by the death of his Son, much more being reconciled, we shall be saved by his life (Romans 5:10).
ANOTHER GOSPEL 1:6, 7
The Galatians were guilty of accepting another Gospel, but it really wasn-’t gospel at all. The doctrine which was added was removing them from the simple faith.
The Gospel is good news, because Jesus died, was buried, and rose again for our salvation. The good news announced to the Galatians by the apostle was that the blessing of Abraham should in Christ Jesus be extended to the Gentiles, so that we might receive the promised spirit through faith (Galatians 3:14). It was this which delivered them from the written code of the law and set them free from the galling yoke of slavery. When Paul speaks of the truth of the gospel in this letter, he is not referring just to the veracity or integrity of the message. The truth means the basic elemental, foundational principle upon which the gospel is predicted. It is the core, the center, the kernel of the gospel. It is what makes the message gospel. The context shows that the truth of the gospel is justification by faith.
Paul was not saying that the Galatian letter was the Gospel.
By the time it was written the Galatians had already accepted the Gospel and turned from it. They had received the Spirit by believing the Gospel message (Galatians 3:2). The letter was written not to bring them into relationship with the Spirit, but to encourage them to walk in the Spirit. If the Spirit is the source of our life, let the Spirit also direct our course Galatians 5:25). Acceptance of the Gospel brings the Spirit as God’s gift to dwell in our bodies, guidance by epistles such as the letter to the Galatians enables the Spirit to direct our course.
WORD STUDY 1:6
The word for remove (metatithemimeh tah TITH a me) carries the connotation of treason and rebellion. When Dionysius deserted the Stoics and went over to the Epicureans, he was called the Turncoat or Traitor. This complete turnabout was no more drastic than the desertion of the Galatians from grace to legalism.
The King James Version obscures an important distinction between the different gospel of verse six and another gospel in verse seven. Verse six speaks of another of a different kind (heterosHEH ter oss), while verse seven speaks of another of the same kind (allosALL oss).
There is no other gospel of the same kind (alios). Any other gospel is necessarily one of a different (heteros) nature and has no saving power.
The Greek word for gospel is euangelion (you ahn GEL e on) (G as in go). It is seen in such English derivatives as evangelism, evangel, and evangelical. It seems literally good news.
In secular usage outside the New Testament, it is nearly always plural, meaning something like good tidings.
**COMMENT 1:7
which is not another gospel**
There are not two gospels to choose from, for oneness is characteristic of God.
a.
I am the truth. John 14:6
b.
There is one body, and one Spirit, even as also ye were called in one hope of your calling; one Lord, one faith, one baptism, one God and Father of all, who is over all, and through all, and in all. Ephesians 4:4-6
c.
But I fear, lest by any means, as the serpent beguiled Eve in his craftiness, your minds should be corrupted from the simplicity and the purity that is toward Christ, For if he that cometh preacheth another Jesus, whom we did not preach, or if ye receive a different spirit, which ye did not receive, or a different gospel, which ye did not accept, ye do well to bear with him. 2 Corinthians 11:3
These denominational folk who say it doesn-’t make any difference are either lying or they are terribly ignorant.
a.
If it doesn-’t matter, why do they not preach the message that will produce unity?
b.
It does make a difference to the preachers;
Their pension is at stake.
Their job is at stake.
Their denominational reputation is at stake.
c.
It makes a difference to God. Cf. Galatians 1:8-9
only there are some that trouble you
Urging circumcision and keeping of the law was a troublesome doctrine.
Denominationalists are troublemakers in binding commandments of men.
and would pervert the gospel of Christ
Division is the beguiling of Satan, drawing men away from the simplicity of the gospel.
A creed is a perversion.
a.
If it is like the Bible, we do not need it.
b.
If it is unlike the Bible, it is erroneous.
Infant baptism is an unscriptural doctrine, originated by an unscriptural church, practiced by unscriptural churches upon unscriptural candidates to save those unscriptural candidates from unscriptural sin.
STUDY QUESTIONS 1:6, 7
What surprised Paul?
Does this mean that the gospel lacks power?
Define quickly removing.
Is this characteristic of good Christians?
Were they called?
Who did it and by what method?
What were they removed from?
Is this falling from grace?
Can you be in God’s Church and participate in false teaching at the same time?
How different was the different gospel?
Harmonize Paul’s expression different gospel and not another gospel.
Is corrupted truth to be considered truth?
Is denominationalism wrong in the light of the Word of God?
Are false teachers, party teachers, etc., to be considered troublemakers to God?
If false teaching is troublesome, ought we to say that it doesn-’t make any difference what you believe as long as you are sincere?
b) Pronouncement of Divine Judgment upon Perverters of the Gospel. Galatians 1:8-9
**TEXT 1:8, 9
(8) But though we, or an angel from heaven, should preach unto you any gospel other than that which we preached unto you, let him be anathema. (9) As we have said before, so say I now again, If any man preacheth unto you any gospel other than that which ye received, let him be anathema.
PARAPHRASE 1:8, 9**
8 They affirm that Peter preacheth, nay, that I myself preach justification by works of law. But even if we who write this, or an angel pretending to have come from heaven, should preach to you a method of justification contrary to, or different from, what we have formerly preached to you, let him be devoted to destruction. 9 To shew you how certain I am of the truth of the doctrine which I preach; As we who write this letter said before jointly, so now a second time I separately say, if any man or angel preach to you concerning your justification, contrary to what ye have learned from me, let him be devoted to destruction.
**COMMENT 1:8, 9
but though we, or an angel from heaven**
Paul’s fervency leads him to say that he, brethren, or angels of heaven should be accursed if they came with a perverted gospel.
The we probably means Paul specifically, but could include all his preaching brethren.
should preach unto you any gospel other
There is only one gospel, so there is no other gospel for us to hear.
Let us have faith in the gospel once and for all delivered unto the saints. Jude Galatians 1:3
than that which we preached unto you
Paul preached:
a.
The death, burial and resurrection of Jesus. 1 Corinthians 15:1-5
b.
Belief in, and confession of, the Christ. Romans 10:9-10
c.
Repentance from sin. Acts 17:30-31
d.
Burial of sin repented-from. Romans 6:4
e.
Resurrection from water to live in a new life. Romans 6:5
All gospel must be measured by this divine measure.
let him be anathema
Let us examine the meaning of the word in the original language.
a.
The Greek word anathema and the Hebrew herem mean to accurse, to damn.
b.
Let him be anathema does not mean we are to curse him.
Many scriptures show the awfulness of false teaching.
a.
For there are many unruly men, vain talkers and deceivers, specially they of the circumcision, whose mouths must be stopped; men who overthrow whole houses, teaching things which they ought not, for filthy lucre’s sake. Titus 1:10-11
b.
Now I beseech you, brethren, mark them that are causing divisions and occasions of stumbling, contrary to the doctrine which ye learned: and turn away from them. Romans 16:17
c.
If any one cometh unto you, and bringeth not this teaching, receive him not into your house, and give him no greeting. 2 John 1:10
d.
Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, did we not. by thy name do many mighty works? Matthew 7:22
e.
The Word of God is not to be added to, nor subtracted from. Revelation 22:18-19
In later years anathema came to mean excommunication (by the very ones who should have been accursed).
a.
Excommunication meant separation from the church.
b.
This is more than that, for angels were not in the church for man to excommunicate.
Verse nine differs only in the fact that Paul says that they received a gospel and therefore should not receive another one.
WORD STUDY 1:8, 9
The word anathema (ah NATH eh mah) is the Greek word for that which is set up for destruction. When Joshua led Israel in the defeat of Jericho, everything in the city was to be destroyed. It was all set aside for God, devoted (anathema) for destruction (Joshua 6:18).
Anyone who preaches a different gospel is to be marked as under a curse of destruction. There is a subtle difference in verse nine from the preceding verse. Verse eight speaks hypothetically in the future tense, but this verse deals with the present reality. The distinction, then, could be shown this way:
Galatians 1:8: If we ever should preach contrary.
Galatians 1:9: If someone is right now preaching contrary.
STUDY QUESTIONS 1:8, 9
What does the word anathema mean?
Who is included in the anathema?
Do we have modern day religions claiming to be from angels?
Name other verses that condemn false teachers.
How does verse nine differ from verse eight?
What may we assume by the emphasis of verse nine to verse eight?
c)
His passion to please God. Galatians 1:10
**TEXT 1:10
(10) For am I now seeking the favor of men, or of God? or am I striving to please men? if I were still pleasing men, I should not be a servant of Christ.
PARAPHRASE 1:10**
10 Having twice denounced destruction to myself and to all others, if we preach contrary to what was first preached to you, I now ask those who say I suit my doctrine to the humours of men, Do I by this denunciation make men my friends, or God? Or do I seek to please men? If indeed I still pleased men, as before my conversion, I should not be the servant of Christ.
**COMMENT 1:10
seeking the favor of men**
He was not a time-serving, man-pleasing factionist, and such a condemnation was most unfounded.
a.
His former life as a Phariseepleasing the priest or the peopledirectly in contrast to his suffering for the gospel.
b.
In this connection, read 2 Corinthians 6:4-10.
He would not be a servant of Christ if he were in the business of pleasing men.
a.
On occasions however, he had conformed to men’s customs.
He had Timothy circumcised. Acts 16:1-3
Paul and four others purified themselves at the temple. Acts 21:26
Paul shaved his head when he was at Cenchrea. Acts 18:18
b.
These were done because of Paul’s charitable disposition, but he never let down on doctrine.
WORD STUDY 1:10
Although we shy away from the word, the very best translation for doulos (DOO loss) is not servant, but slave. It is the same word used countless times in ancient literature to describe the slave class, who:
Had no remaining rights of their own,
Were owned by someone else,
Were compelled to do the will of their master,
Imagine the results if every Christian would truly commit himself as a slave for his Master!
Galatians 1:11-12
**B. PAUL’S GOSPEL AND APOSTLESHIP DIVINELY DERIVED. 1:11-24
- The divine source of his gospel. 1:11, 12 TEXT 1:11, 12
(11) For I make known to you, brethren, as touching the gospel which was preached by me, that it is not after man. (12) For neither did I receive it from man, nor was I taught it, but it came to me through revelation of Jesus Christ.
PARAPHRASE 1:11, 12**
11 Now, because my doctrine hath been disregarded, on pretence that I was taught it by men, I assure you, brethren, concerning justification by faith, which was preached by me, that it is not a doctrine which I was taught by man, and which I was in danger of mistaking. 12 For I neither received it from Ananias, nor from any of the apostles at Jerusalem, nor was I taught it any how, except by a revelation from Jesus Christ.
**COMMENT 1:11
not after man**
All instruction he received from men was for his own salvation.
a.
Rise and enter into the city, and it shall be told thee what thou must do. Acts 9:6
As God used human instrumentality for a divine message, so Paul had a divine message for men, but not from men.
**COMMENT 1:12
nor was I taught it**
He didn-’t have any entrance or final examinations from men.
It was not received from the mouths or books of men.
it came to me through revelation of Jesus Christ
Just when Paul received this revelation is uncertain.
a.
It could have been on the road to Damascus, for he started preaching at oncestraightway. Acts 9:20
b.
Perhaps it was during his sojourn in Arabia. Galatians 1:17
c.
It might have been each time he needed it, for Jesus had promised revelation to His apostles.
He shall guide you into all truth. John 16:13
The Holy Spirit shall teach you in that very hour. Luke 12:12
For no prophesy ever came by the will of man: but men spake from God being moved by the Holy Spirit. 2 Peter 1:21
The subject matter of his revelation Paul makes clear to us.
THE REVELATION OF JESUS CHRIST 1:11, 12
The true prophet says humbly, To me, a sinful man, God spoke, The scribes and the Pharisees declare, When we speak, God agrees.
Paul either spoke the truth when he said that this message was from God or he was a liar. It is not possible to believe that a liar could produce most of the New Testament letters. False teachers undermined Paul’s truth that men are justified by faith bytrying to destroy his apostleship. I prefer to believe that justification is a judicial act. It takes place in heaven. It is a pronouncement of the divine mind. It cannot be earned, purchased, or procured by works. It is solely the gift of grace, and having been accorded, it is not subject to reversal by virtue of additional testimony from an outside party. Justification takes into account all the factors, and the case will not be re-opened. In Christ I am free. I am safe. I am made to be guiltless by divine fiat.
STUDY QUESTIONS 1:10-12
Whose favor did Paul seek?
Whose favor does the false teacher seek?
Why do men teach false doctrine according to Titus 1:11?
Give the source for Paul’s message.
Why did Paul need to emphasize this?
Do people doubt his inspiration today?
Have you evidence that men denounce the apostles in their writing today?
How did Paul get his message?
When did it come to him?
Did it need to come all at once?
Were the other apostles taught all the truth at one time by Jesus?
Galatians 1:13-14
Proof of its divine origin. Galatians 1:13-24
a) His early life was adverse to the gospel. Galatians 1:13-14
**TEXT 1:13, 14
(13) For ye have heard of my manner of life in time past in the Jews-’ religion, how that beyond measure I persecuted the church of God, and made havoc of it: (14) and I advanced in the Jews-’ religion beyond many of mine own age among my countrymen, being more exceedingly zealous for the traditions of my fathers.
PARAPHRASE 1:13, 14**
13 To convince you of this, I appeal to my behaviour, both before and after I was made an apostle. Ye have heard, certainly, in what manner I behaved formerly, while I professed Judaism; that I exceedingly persecuted the church of God, and laid it waste.
14 And my enmity to the gospel was occasioned by my making progress in Judaism, (Acts 22:3), above many who were of the same age with myself in mine own nation; being more exceedingly zealous than any of them in maintaining the traditions of my fathers, in which, as a Pharisee, I placed the whole of religion.
**COMMENT 1:13
beyond measure**
It was not a limited persecutionhe went all out.
This zeal against the church spread his reputation as a persecutor.
my manner of life in time past
He was of the strictest sect of the Pharisees. Philippians 3:5
He was zealous for the law, as were all good Pharisees.
I persecuted the church
Paul consented to Stephen’s death. Acts 8:1
Because I persecuted the church of God. 1 Corinthians 15:9
I was before a blasphemer and a persecutor, and injurious. 1 Timothy 1:13
… letters to bring them unto Jerusalem in bonds to be punished. Acts 22:4-5
the church of God
Several names of the church are revealed in scripture.
a.
The ChurchUniversal, Acts 9:31
b.
Church of GodPlanner. 1 Corinthians 1:2
c.
Church of the first bornHonor. Hebrews 12:23
d.
Body of ChristActivity. 1 Corinthians 12:27
e.
Churches of ChristOwnership. Romans 16:16
f.
Churches of saintsCharacter. 1 Corinthians 14:33
g.
Churches of the gentiles. Romans 16:4
Observe the significance of church names today.
a.
They honor men.
b.
They honor doctrines.
c.
They honor forms of church government.
made havoc of it
This, of course, refers to the people and not the buildings.
This was a strike against the authority of Christ.
a.
Gave him to be head over all things to the church. Ephesians 1:22-23
b.
All authority hath been given unto me. Matthew 28:18
c.
Why persecutest thou me? Acts 9:4
**COMMENT 1:14
advanced in the Jews-’ religion**
Was Paul the rich young ruler?
There are some who feel that he was.
a.
Paul was called and was kicking against the goad. Acts 26:14
b.
There is a possibility that this began when he went sorrowing away from Christ.
Hear what he says about himself:
a.
I also am an Israelite, of the seed of Abraham, of the tribe of Benjamin. Romans 11:1
b.
If any other man thinketh to have confidence in the flesh, I yet more: circumcised the eighth day, of the stock of Israel, of the tribe of Benjamin, a Hebrew of Hebrews; as touching the law, a Pharisee; as touching zeal, persecuting the church; as touching the righteousness which is in the law, found blameless. Philippians 3:4-6
being more exceedingly zealous
Who else would travel like Paul to stamp out heresy as he was doing to the church?
Zeal characterized Paul, out of the church and in it, against it and for it.
for the traditions
What does tradition mean?
a.
It can mean doctrine of Godhold fast the traditions (1 Corinthians 11:2).
b.
It may mean doctrines of men as well as doctrines of the law here.
What were some traditions of men?
a.
Jesus condemned the scribes and Pharisees for enlarging the borders of their garments.
b.
The scribes and Pharisees held to wrong Sabbath observances, and condemned Christ for:
Healing. Matthew 5:1-10
Casting out demons. Luke 13:10-16
Plucking ears of grain. Matthew 12:1-8
my fathers
This may mean the patriarchsAbraham, Isaac, Jacob, Moses, etc.
It may mean his own immediate religious fathers.
a.
Perhaps Gamaliel, Paul’s highly respected teacher, is meant. There stood up one in the council a Pharisee, named Gamaliel, a doctor of the law, had in honor of all the people. Acts 5:34 I am a Jew. brought up in this city, at the feet of Gamaliel, instructed according to the strict manner of the law. Acts 22:3
b.
Paul had a respect for his teachers, even though they were wrong.
WORD STUDY 1:14
Zealous (zeloteszay LOW tase) is literally being a zealot or fanatic. This word is also found describing Simon the Canaanean in Acts 1:13, who was fanatical in a political sense.
STUDY QUESTIONS 1:13, 14
What is meant by beyond measure?
Tell of Paul’s past.
Was he a trouble maker then?
What did he persecute?
What names does he give to the church?
Is there a name or are there names for the church?
Why are there scriptural names for the church?
Do we need to give new names to God’s church?
How did Paul make havoc?
Discuss Paul’s advancement.
How did he compare to others in zeal?
What does the word tradition mean?
Is it always a bad word when used religiously?
Name some traditions condemned by Jesus.
Do we have false teachers teaching them today?
Is a false teaching less evil when accepted by a respected denomination?
What does he mean by fathers?
b) His separation, call and early preaching were not from men. Galatians 1:15-17
Galatians 1:15-17
**TEXT 1:15-17
(15) But when it was the good pleasure of God, who separated me, even from my mother’s womb, and called me through his grace, (16) to reveal his Son in me, that I might preach him among the Gentiles; straightway I conferred not with flesh and blood: (17) neither went I up to Jerusalem to them that were apostles before me: but I went away into Arabia; and again I returned unto Damascus.
PARAPHRASE 1:15-17**
15 But when God, who destined me from my birth to be an apostle, and ordered my education with a view to that office, and who called me to it by his unmerited goodness, was pleased 16 To shew his Son to me, that I might preach Him to the heathen as risen from the dead, immediately after that I did not consult any man in Damascus, as having doubts concerning what I had seen, or as needing information concerning the gospel which I was called to preach. 17 Neither did I go up to Jerusalem to be instructed by they who were apostles before me; but I went away into Arabia, where there was no apostle; and having there received further revelations from Christ, and studied the scriptures by the light of these revelations, I again returned to Damascus, without having seen any of the apostles.
COMMENT Galatians 1:15
when it was the good pleasure of God
God works on time. Cf. Galatians 4:4
He finds pleasure in His work and will.
a.
It was God’s good pleasure through the foolishness of the preaching to save them that believe. 1 Corinthians 1:21
b.
It is your Father’s good pleasure to give you the kingdom. Luke 12:32
who separated me
Separate is a Hebrew expression meaning to sanctify, ordain, or prepare.
Nothing Paul had done merited this call.
a.
He was called from birth before he could do good.
b.
He was called in sin while persecuting the church.
God had separated Paulhis call was not of man.
a.
Separated unto the gospel, Romans 1:1
b.
Separated me Barnabas and Saul. Acts 13:2
c.
Called to be an apostle. 1 Corinthians 1:1
even from my mother’s womb
Paul could not know this except by inspiration.
Such separation was not unknown.
a.
Mosesdivine providence seen.
b.
SamuelGod answered Hannah’s request. 1 Samuel 1:1-20
c.
John the Baptistprophecy spoke of his coming.
d.
IsaiahListen O isles, unto me; and hearken, ye people, from far: Jehovah hath called me from the womb; from the bowels of my mother hath he made mention of my name. Isaiah 49:1
e.
JeremiahBefore I formed thee in the belly I knew thee, and before thou camest forth out of the womb I sanctified thee; I have appointed thee a prophet unto the nations. Jeremiah 1:5
and called me
How many times was he called before he answered?
a.
Many people waste many years rejecting the call.
b.
Paul acted as though he were trying to make up for lost time.
Paul says, I was not disobedient unto the heavenly vision. Acts 26:19
through his grace
Paul’s wickedness was enough to bring wrath, but God’s grace prevailed.
Grace called Paul to be an apostle, and grace gives us all an opportunity for salvation.
**COMMENT 1:16
to reveal his Son in me**
The law pointed out sinthe gospel announces Christ is come.
Christ was revealed in Paul.
a.
Paul was a good revelation of Jesus, for he was so consecrated.
b.
Paul revealed Christ in a wide area, from Antioch to Rome, and (one theory says) even to Spain and Britain.
that I might preach him among the Gentiles
Paul states that his mission was to the Gentiles.
But the Lord said unto him, Go thy way: for he is a chosen vessel unto me, to bear my name before the Gentiles and kings, and the children of Israel. Acts 9:15
Paul announced to them a Savior, not a lawgiver.
a.
Paul is saying, Do not listen to teachers of the law.
b.
Listen not to the law, but to the gospel.
c.
Listen not to Moses, but to the Son of God.
straightway I conferred not with the flesh and blood
If God called and God revealed, then Paul didn-’t need any conference with men.
The disciples received their gospel from Christ, and so did Paul.
**COMMENT 1:17
neither went I up to them that were apostles**
Evidently the apostles were staying close to Jerusalem.
Paul did not go up there to receive a message.
I went away into Arabia
The account in Acts 9:1-43 does not give any, hint of Arabia.
He probably did not go to preach there.
a.
I. declared both to them of Damascus first, and at Jerusalem, and throughout all the country of Judea. Acts 26:19-20
He does not say that he went there to receive a gospel, but he does say that he did not get it at Jerusalem.
again I returned unto Damascus
Here his first recorded ministry took place.
a.
And he was certain days with the disciples that were at Damascus. Acts 9:19
b.
And straightway in the synagogues he proclaimed Jesus, that he is the Son of God. Acts 9:20
c.
And when many days were fulfilled, the Jews took counsel together to kill him:. but his disciples took him by night, and let him down through the wall, lowering him in a basket. Acts 9:23
d. Perhaps after this he went to Arabia and then returned to Damascus (which is not mentioned in Acts 9:1-43), then he proceeded to Jerusalem. And when he was come to Jerusalem, he assayed to join himself to the disciples: and they were all afraid. Acts 9:26
STUDY QUESTIONS 1:15-17
How did God’s good pleasure act in Paul?
When was God at work?
Why did Paul not heed the call?
When is the word separation used in Acts in relationship to Paul?
How did Paul know that God called him at birth?
Is this the first time God did this to men?
What was at work to give Paul a chance to answer the call?
How did Paul reveal Christ?
Name the places where Paul revealed the Lord.
Name the Gentiles who received Paul’s revelation.
Did Paul preach a lawgiver or a Saviour?
What did Paul say about conferring?
Where did Paul go instead of to Jerusalem?
Does this verse indicate where the apostles were?
Do we have a record of Paul preaching in Arabia?
Where did he go after the trip to Arabia?
Did he preach in Damascus?
How was it received?
Galatians 1:18-24
c)
His visit to Jerusalem was not long enough for instruction in the gospel. Galatians 1:18-24
**TEXT 1:18-24
(18) Then after three years I went up to Jerusalem to visit Cephas, and tarried with him fifteen days. (19) But other of the apostles saw I none, save James the Lord’s brother. (20) Now touching the things which I write unto you, behold, before God, I lie not. (21) Then I came into the regions of Syria and Cilicia. (22) And I was still unknown by face unto the churches of Judea which were in Christ: (23) but they only heard say, He that once persecuted us now preacheth the faith of which he once made havoc; (24) and they glorified God in me.
PARAPHRASE 1:18-24**
18 Then, after three years from my conversion, I went up to Jerusalem, to become acquainted with Peter; and being introduced to him by Barnabas, who knew how the Lord had appeared to me, I abode in his house fifteen days. 19 But, though I abode these days in Jerusalem, I saw no other of the apostles at that time, except James, the Lord’s cousin-german. 20 Now, the things I write to you concerning myself, to shew that I am not an apostle of men, behold, in the presence of God I declare with assurance, I do not falsely represent them. 21 After the fifteen days were ended, I went first into the regions of Syria, and from thence into my native country Cilicia. 22 And I was personally unknown to the Christian churches in Judea; so that I could not receive either my commission or my doctrine from them. 23 But only they heard, that he who formerly persecuted the Christians, was become a zealous preacher of the facts concerning Christ which formerly he endeavoured to disprove. 24 And they praised God on account of my conversion, who had been so bitter an enemy to them.
**COMMENT 1:18
then after three years I went up to Jerusalem**
This is after his Arabian trip and his experience at Damascus of being close to a martyr’s death.
Acts 9:26-30 tells of his trip there.
a.
The disciples were afraid of him.
b.
Barnabas told of Paul’s conversion.
Paul then preached, going in and out of Jerusalem.
Grecian Jews sought to kill him, but the brethren helped him escape and he went to Tarsus.
The three years causes one to think of the apostles-’ three years of training under Christ. Some feel Paul was trained three years in Arabia.
**to visit Cephas **(alternate reading: to get acquainted with Cephas)
Notice that he was preaching before he went to Jerusalem, and enemies sought to kill him there as in Damascus. Acts 9:26-29
Why were they not trying to kill Peter?
a.
Probably because Peter was not giving the emphasis about Gentiles having equal rights as Paul was.
b.
Probably because of Paul’s radical change. Peter was of Galilee. Paul was one of them formerly and they turned on him.
c.
The apostles seem to have been spared some persecution. Acts 8:2
and tarried with him fifteen days
This would be rather a brief time for instruction.
Jesus kept his disciples about three years; how could Paul expect to be qualified in fifteen days under Peter’s teaching?
Galatians 1:18-20 AND Acts 9:26-28 COMPARED
Some few texts in the Bible seem to contradict each other until examined closely.
One such problem area has to do with harmonizing Acts 9:26-28 and Galatians 1:18-20. The problem is this: Saul of Tarsus, following his conversion, preached Christ for some time at Damascus, then went to Jerusalem, hoping to confer with brethren there.
According to the account in Acts, the disciples aware of his former antagonism, were afraid of him. Barnabas then vouched for him, after which he mingled freely with the apostles. When we read the account in Galatians, it at first seems to vary. Remember Luke the historian says that he traced accurately his information before writing.
In Galatians 1:20, Paul says that he was not telling a lie which is really writing under an oath.
Paul seems to say that he spent fifteen days with Cephas (Peter) Galatians 1:20, but saw none of the other apostles except James the Lord’s brother. Basically, two difficulties face us: 1. Was James an apostle? 2. Did Paul meet with other apostles besides Peter?
What is meant by the word apostle? This is a key to the understanding. Were men called apostles who were not of the original twelve?
Consider the senderIt will not do to use the term apostle loosely; it is never so used in the Scripture. An apostle is not only one who is sent; he is one sent or commissioned by some specific person or group. It is unfair to speak of an apostle without reference to his sender, just as it would be to speak of an ambassador without reference to the ruler or government which sent him or gave him his commission. Jesus was an apostle of God, and was faithful to Him who appointed Him (Hebrews 3:1-2). Paul and the twelve were apostles of Christ, for He specifically appointed and commissioned them. Saul and Barnabas were apostles of the church in Antioch, for the church sent them on their mission (Acts 13:1-3; Acts 14:14).
A study of the epistles show that many men were called apostles.
Certain brethren assigned to accompany Paul with a collection were named as apostles (rendered messengers) of the churches (2 Corinthians 8:23). Epaphroditus was an apostle (messenger) of the church in Philippi (Philippians 2:25). Others said they were apostles, but were not (2 Corinthians 11:13; Revelation 2:2). The word was clearly specific, and never used carelessly.
But James the Lord’s brother was not an apostle. He was spoken of as a pillar in Galatians 2:9. He was not an apostle of Christ, for no evidence exists to certify his appointment. He was a leader in the church at Jerusalem, but nothing indicates that the church ever commissioned or appointed him for a specific mission. He seems to have sent apostles (messengers) to Antioch.
The apparent contradiction is clarified through studying the language in which the word of God came to us. It reveals that there were other kinds of apostles.
A careful study of Gal 1:19 in the original language easily solves both difficulties; the solution is in the phrase, other of the apostles. The New Testament Greek uses two words for other. Allos means another of the same kind, and heteros, another of a different kind. This is illustrated in Galatians 1:6-7 as Paul marveled that the Galatians were so soon removed to a different gospel, which was not another; it was heteros, different in kind; not alios, merely another of the same kind. In Galatians 1:19 Paul used heteros, thus distinguishing James in kind from the apostles.
Those who like to study language will best appreciate the following discussion. In the New Testament, writers commonly expressed the comparison, than, not with a conjunction, but with the ablative case. Such phrases as more than, greater than, and rather than, were normally expressed in this way. Here Paul uses heteros with the ablative case. The passage might well be rendered, But other than the apostles, I saw no one except James, the Lord’s brother, Yes, Paul did see the other apostles; and, no, he did not refer to James as an apostle.
WORD STUDY 1:18
Cephas was the Aramaic equivalent of the Greek name Peter. Both names are simply the common word for rock, as Simon was designated by Jesus in Matthew 16:18.
**COMMENT 1:19
but other of the apostles saw I none**
Only two apostles were seen, so he could not have been instructed by all of them.
It is doubtful if James were an apostle as seen by the study unless by a special calling.
It seems Paul places him as an apostle, and that should settle it.
James, the Lord’s brother
Is this James the author of the book of James?
a.
Yes, some say.
b.
See McGarvey’s Evidences of Christianity.
There were three Jamesand some say a fourth:
a.
James, the elder, son of Zebedee and brother of John, was one of the twelve (Matthew 10:1-42). He was martyred under Herod Agrippa in 44 A.D.
b.
James, the younger, son of Alphaeus was also an apostle (Matthew 10:1-42).
c.
James, the brother of the Lord, is named in this text.
He is believed to have been a pillar in the church at Jerusalem. James and Cephas and John, they who were reputed to be pillars, gave to me and Barnabas the right hand of fellowship, that we should go unto the Gentiles and they unto the circumcision. Galatians 2:9
He may have been made an apostle by a special appearance of the Lord. 1 Corinthians 15:7 then he appeared to James; then to all the apostles.
His judgment prevailed in the council at Jerusalem. Acts 15:13-29
According to Josephus he was stoned by order of Annas, the High Priest, about 63 A.D.
Some feel he was a cousin rather than a brother.
d.
James the Less (Greek littleshort of stature) is considered by some to be a fourth, but could be the same as (b).
**COMMENT 1:20
before God I lie not**
This amounts to an oath before God.
He was willing to call God’s witness to the proof of his apostleship.
This is to establish the truthfulness of the history of his early experiences with the Lord.
**COMMENT 1:21
the regions of Syria and Cilicia**
Paul’s reasons for leaving Damascus are seen in Acts 9:22-25; the Jews took counsel to kill him. While in Jerusalem, he was in a trance and the Lord spoke: And he said unto me, Depart: for I will send thee forth far hence unto the Gentiles. Acts 22:17-21
Cilicia formed the part of Syria in Asia Minor, which part was separated from Syria proper by the high ridge of Mt. Taurus.
**COMMENT 1:22
I was still unknown by face**
He had not held any meetings to give them a chance to become acquainted.
No doubt because of persecution, the Christians were not assembling in great meetings to hear this converted Jew.
**COMMENT 1:23
But they only heard say**
He had a reputation that was second hand: they had not actually seen this former persecutor.
a)
Once he was a havoc maker.
b)
Now he preaches what he once destroyed.
Paul didn-’t have time to appear before all the scattered Christians.
**COMMENT 1:24
they glorified God in me**
It was not because he urged circumcision and the law of Moses, but because he urged faith in Jesus Christ.
They rejoiced that an enemy was now a friend.
STUDY QUESTIONS 1:18-24
How many years are named in this verse?
Was it three years after his Arabian trip, or was it three years after his conversion?
Could he have spent three years receiving instruction from Christ as did the other apostles?
Was Paul interested in any one disciple in Jerusalem?
Why was Peter’s life in jeopardy, while Paul had already faced death?
Was fifteen days very long for Paul to receive instruction?
Why does Paul discuss the time element?
What apostles did Paul see?
Why were the others not seen?
Was the Lord’s brother an apostle? Cf. also 1 Corinthians 15:7
How many James-’ were there?
Was the Lord’s brother the author of the book of James?
Did Paul feel that these words were extremely important? (Galatians 1:20)
Who was called as a witness to the truth?
Where did Paul go from Jerusalem?
Locate his destination on a map.
Why did he leave Jerusalem?
Was Paul’s face a familiar Christian face in Judea?
Why did the Christians not gather in great numbers to hear him?
Was Paul known to be a Christian?
What was reported concerning him?
Did all of them believe the report?
What is meant by glorifying God in Paul?
Do we glorify God in our preachers today?
If we speak against a preacher, how serious is it?