Galatians 1:6-12

Introduction:

1. In a pluralistic society, the greatest sin is claiming any objective moral truth.

2. This puts the gospel of Christ on an unavoidable collision course.

3. Sadly, much of this philosophy dominates the religious world as well.

Discussion:

I. The Problem in Galatia

A. Julius Caesar said, “The infirmity of the Gauls is that they are fickle in their resolves and fond of change, and not to be trusted.”

B. The primary concern of Galatians is the potential that they may turn from the gospel to Judaism and fall from grace (Galatians 1:6; 4:21-31; 5:1-6).

II. Paul’s Credentials

A. Paul spends much of the first two chapters defending his apostleship.

B. Paul did not speak on his own authority (Galatians 1:1, 11-12; 1 Corinthians 14:37), and neither can we (1 Peter 4:11).

C. Without proof of divine origin, our message has no power.

III. The Rebuke

A. Their rapid defection to a different gospel left Paul perplexed (Galatians 1:6).

B. Paul reiterated the singularity of the gospel of Christ (Galatians 1:7).

C. Sadly, there were some who troubled them and perverted the gospel.

1. Trouble= “to agitate, disquiet, make restless, to perplex the mind of one by expressing scruples or doubts” (Thayer)

2. Pervert= “to turn across, transmute, or corrupt” (Strong)

3. Transmute= “to change or alter in form, appearance…” (Webster)

D. Christ does not change, nor does His gospel (Hebrews 13:8; Jude 3).

Conclusion: Agree to Disagree?

1. Most of our culture argues that truth is in a state of flux or variability.

2. Galatians 1:6-12 upends this idea and teaches a singular, solid foundation.

3. Paul gave two possibilities when opposing gospels are presented (Galatians 1:7-9):

a. Both parties preach a false gospel and are set apart for destruction.

b. One party preaches a false gospel and is set apart for destruction.

4. Paul left no option where all parties can be right with God.

This demands we scrutinize every teaching (Acts 17:11; 1 Thessalonians 5:21; 1 John 4:1).