August 23, 2019
What does it say?
Some Jewish Galatians were trying to convince Gentile Christians to be circumcised.
What does it mean?
Even in the early church, there were divisions among Christians. One group was referred to as the “Circumcision Party.” They seem to have been intimidating new Gentile Christians by compelling them to undergo circumcision. Paul exposed their efforts as a shallow attempt to gain converts to their party. Paul made clear throughout this letter, and especially in v. 15 of this chapter, that circumcision is a matter of the flesh and was no longer a requirement as a follower of God. After Christ’s death on the Cross, what mattered was that they live differently than before.
How should I respond?
It’s sad when there are divisions in a church or between groups who claim to follow Christ. We come to church, in part, to encourage one another and build each other up (1 Thess. 5:11). All too often, though, divisions arise and cause harm within a body of believers and within the church of Jesus Christ. What differences might have caused a division between you and another follower of Jesus? What caused the division – theology, methodology, personality, Christian liberty, etc.? This week, be open to discussion; ask questions and be willing to listen. Study Scripture so you know why you believe what you believe. Differences between believers don’t have to cause division.