Oh, foolish Galatians! Who has cast an evil spell on you? For the meaning of Jesus Christ’s death was made as clear to you as if you had seen a picture of his death on the cross. ~Galatians 3:1 NLT
This chapter starts out in a very peculiar manner. Just picture this letter being read by a church leader standing at a podium. "Oh foolish Galatians!" I am sure there will be those who would take offense and if it was in today's world where church services are filmed. There would be a lot of criticism about those opening words.
The Galatian church had been doing so well in receiving the gospel of Christ. Their sudden change to now start trying to earn God's approval left Paul so astounded, he likened it to being under an evil spell. This reminds me of Jesus' words, when he warned the people about the Pharisees and their false teachings.
“Watch out!” Jesus warned them. “Beware of the yeast of the Pharisees and Sadducees.” ~Matthew 16:6 NLT
Just as knowing about the death of Christ is vital, it is even more paramount to understand the reason behind him dying, the reason he died. He didn't just die, because the Jews crucified him. God planned it all. He had a bigger picture in mind, he had salvation of many souls in mind. He had a household full of sons who are exactly like him in mind. "Jesus dying was a means to an end" words I have heard so many times. Jesus dying wasn't the main goal, rather for the main goal to come to play, Jesus had to die.
God had resurrection in mind. He had the Holy Spirit coming in mind. God had us in mind! Jesus dying gave way for us to become children of God. It made it possible for us to now become God's sons.
I am filled with so much gratitude to God that he had me in mind. Jesus endured the cross all for me. May God grant us the ability to fully grasp, know and understand all that Jesus' death accomplished.
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