But Though We, or an Angel From Heaven, Preach Any Other Gospel Unto You Than That Which We Have Preached Unto You, Let Him Be Accursed.
Paul emphasizes the importance of the Gospel and the consequences of preaching a different one, even going so far as to curse himself and others.
Martin Luther emphasizes Paul's unwavering zeal for the Gospel, expressing his willingness to be cursed, along with angels, rather than see the Gospel undermined. Paul's deep conviction leads him to declare curses on himself and others, including heavenly beings, to protect the purity of the Gospel he preached to the Galatians, which he asserts is the only true Gospel revealed in the Sacred Scriptures.
Text
Paul's zeal for the Gospel becomes so fervent that it almost leads him to curse angels. "I would rather that I, my brethren, yes, the angels of heaven be anathematized than that my gospel be overthrown."
The Greek word anathema, Hebrew herem, means to accurse, execrate, to damn. Paul first (hypothetically) curses himself. Knowing persons first find fault with themselves in order that they may all the more earnestly reprove others.
Paul maintains that there is no other gospel besides the one he had preached to the Galatians. He preached, not a gospel of his own invention, but the very same Gospel God had long ago prescribed in the Sacred Scriptures. No wonder Paul pronounces curses upon himself and upon others, 30upon the angels of heaven, if anyone should dare to preach any other gospel than Christ's own.
Sermon Outline
- Paul's Zeal for the Gospel
- The Importance of the Gospel
- Consequences of Preaching a Different Gospel
- Curses upon those who preach a different gospel
- Angels of heaven are included in the curses
Key Quotes
“I would rather that I, my brethren, yes, the angels of heaven be anathematized than that my gospel be overthrown.” — Martin Luther
Application Points
- We should be careful not to compromise the Gospel or preach a different message than what is found in the Sacred Scriptures.
- Our zeal for the Gospel should be matched by a willingness to defend it and stand firm against those who would seek to undermine it.
- We should be willing to take a stand and make sacrifices for the sake of the Gospel, even if it means being cursed or ostracized by others.