Galatians 1:6-10

Introduction:

1. As inherently social beings, humans naturally want approval from others; we want people to like, respect, invite, and include us in their lives and activities.

2. The uncompromising nature of the gospel will hinder such approval at times (Matthew 10:16-22).

3. If driven by human approval, we will be more inclined to compromise the truth.

Discussion:

I. The Danger of People-Pleasing

A. The key issue in Galatians was their abandonment of the pure gospel, apparently shifting towards Judaizing teachers (1:6-9; 2:11-14; 3:1-9, 16-29; 4:21-31; 5:1-15).

B. There were certain advantages to Judaism: social acceptance and avoidance of persecution (Acts 10:28; 11:1-3; Philippians 3:1-7; Hebrews 10:32-39).

C. The same holds true of others who oppose Christianity (John 15:18-21; 2 Timothy 3:12).

D. Paul left no room for misunderstanding the consequences of abandoning truth in pursuit human favor (Galatians 1:6-9; cf. 1 Thessalonians 2:1-6; 2 Thessalonians 1:3-10).

II. Biblical Examples of People-Pleasing

A. Many instances of this phenomenon occur in Scripture, highlighting the danger.

B. We will ponder a sample of them here:

1. Aaron made the golden calf to pacify the Israelites (Exodus 32:1-35, esp. 21-26).

2. Saul forfeited his reign by satisfying the people over God (1 Samuel 15:10-26).

3. Solomon forsook God for political alliances and love of women (1 Kings 3:1; 11:1-13).

4. Ahab’s prophets spoke lies to court his favor, even pressuring Micaiah to do the same (1 Kings 22:5-13; cf. Jeremiah 6:10-17; 7:4, 8; 14:13-14; 23:9-16; Ezekiel 13:9-11).

5. Several Jewish leaders believed in Jesus but chose their position (John 12:42-43; 19:38).

6. Peter, Barnabas, et. al. turned away from Gentile brethren when some Jews came to town (Galatians 2:11-13).

7. Paul warned of those who would “heap up for themselves teachers” to satisfy their itching ears (2 Timothy 4:1-4).

III. Modern Temptations to People-Please

A. Peer pressure was, is, and forever will be a threat to holy living (1 Corinthians 5:1-6; 15:33).

B. We face so many people-pleasing temptations:

1. We may be compelled to take up sinful habits to fit in with people: smoking, drinking, drugs, sex, dressing provocatively, foul language, dirty jokes, ungodly entertainment, prioritizing secular events over church work, etc.

2. We may be tempted to do unethical things to please bosses, coworkers, etc.

3. We may be tempted to water down the gospel: a singular church with a singular plan of salvation, rigid ethical standards, uncompromising worship standards, etc. is certainly off-putting to many.

4. Pursuing human acceptance can paralyze us in God’s service, leaving us at odds with Him (Matthew 6:24; Luke 12:47-48).

5. We may become exclusionary like Peter.

Conclusion:

1. We have not touched the hem of the garment regarding the hindrances that longing for human favor can present in our pursuit of holiness.

2. For this, we must make it our default attitude that in all things we seek to please God, regardless of the social cost (Matthew 10:34-39; 2 Corinthians 5:9; Galatians 1:10; 1 Thessalonians 2:4).