How can I ever forget? As a first-year student in high school, I was an Army ROTC cadet and then later in life as a member of the US Army. One of the things that I still remember is “marching.” The various movements we learned were important as vast numbers of people can be moved from place to place in an organized manner. That means, keeping in step. Yes, because that one soldier out of step is very noticeable and detracts from the larger group.
In the introduction of Galatians in the Life Application Bible, the author makes this statement: “…try to understand this first-century conflict between grace and law, faith and deeds, but also be aware of modern parallels.” (p. 2110) Paul made at least three missionary journeys. His first such trip included much of Asia Minor, including the Galatian territory (“people of Gaul”). Paul’s letter to this church was written after his first journey and likely prior to his third (and possible final), circa 51-53 AD.
If we look back into Paul’s (a/k/a Saul) life, we see a convolution of the man. Saul was a Jewish man and a Pharisee trained by Gamliel, a noted theologian of his day, and also a Roman citizen. Luke’s Book of the Acts, states, “…(he) was breathing murderous threats” (Acts 9:1, paraphrased) But God had other plans for this man. Jesus appeared to him on the road to Damascus and changed his life forever; but now was armed with the gospel as the only way to salvation – not the law and an adversary to the Christians!
The letter has been called The Christian Magna Carta by some. Yes, FREEDOM in Christ! (emphasis added) A controversy raised its hoary head that originated from Jewish Christians and who also held to Jewish laws and customs. Their (called Judaizers) argument was that the new Gentile Christians must abide by the Old Testament laws, especially circumcision. Yes, even necessary for salvation.
St. Paul opens his fifth chapter in Galatians with this statement, “It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery.” (NIV, Gal. 5:1) Paul’s argument against circumcision binds him to the whole law. Thus, Paul states, justification does not come from the law, rather the gospel! “The only thing that counts is faith expressing itself through love,” says Paul. (Gal. 5:6b)
In the Lutheran Bible Companion, Volume 2, the authors state, “Christian freedom means walking (conducting oneself) by the Holy Spirit’s power and leading.” (5:1-6:10, page 507) Yes, that’s Keeping in Step. Keeping in Step can be summed up in love. How do we keep in step with the gospel and the urging of His Spirit? Paul delineates the acts of our sinful nature. The list of fifteen such attributes that are each contrary to God’s keeping in step. But in case Paul left one out, he concludes with “…and the like.”
If we are to keep in step in our Christian walk, then love must surely lead the list. In fact, Paul lists love as the first of nine. He titles them fruits of the Spirit. Listen to his instructions to the Galatians (and us): love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. Christ’s high priestly function was to redeem us from the slavery of our sinful nature and place us on the path of righteousness. And once for all! Unlike the Old Testament high priests who entered the Holy of Holies once every year, Christ’s sacrifice was total and complete, never to be repeated! His blood was shed in His agonizing death on Calvary’s cross. He died the death of a criminal but was raised in glory and is seated at the right hand of God in victory. God be praised!
As in the time of Paul, we too, cannot live a perfect life and daily sin much; but we have the Good News of salvation that renders us blameless by His blood. We are truly made right with God. May you and I keep in step with His guidance as we travel down life’s path. May we also show God’s love for us by loving others and serving where God directs.
Peace
Connected in Him, I stand
GHR
