Not every issue that arises within the church is equally important. On many issues Christians ought to be able to accept different views and live peacefully with one another. On many disputed matters, discussion should be conducted with love and grace, showing respect for those with whom we differ. When the substance of the gospel is involved, however, the issues are so vital that agreeing to differ is not an option. We consider Galatians 1:6-10 Only one gospel.
1. The apostle’s amazement
Generally in Paul’s letters he followed the greeting with thanksgiving and commendation. Not so in Galatians. There is a strong statement at the outset: ‘I am astonished’ (v6). We hear Paul’s anger, frustration, anxiety and disappointment. The problems in Galatia are immediately spelled out in v6-7:
(i). ‘so quickly’. The speed of the Galatians’ embrace of false teaching shocks and grieves Paul. This is only 2 years after his ministry founding the churches (Acts 13-14).
(ii). ‘deserting the one who called you by the grace of Christ’. This is not merely an intellectual issue – they are deserting God. In effect this is covenant-breaking, a grave sin, though Paul hopes for recovery (5:10 ‘confident’).
(iii). ‘turning’. Paul recognises the activity of false teachers (‘some people’), but the element of choice means that the Galatians are responsible for their actions.
(iv). ‘a different gospel’. The error in Galatia went to the heart of the gospel, removing crucial truths about Christ and the way of salvation. This is ‘another gospel’ (v6) which ‘is not another’ (v7). There is only one gospel.
2. The apostle’s assertion
The false teachers are ‘throwing you into confusion’, battering them spiritually. Paul warns the Galatians in a powerful assertion in v8. Regarding any preacher of a different ‘gospel – ‘let him be eternally condemned’ (ESV ‘accursed’, lit. ‘anathema’). Anyone who propagates a false gospel is worthy of the judgment of God. The nature of the gospel and the damage done to those who believe a false version mean that there can be no compromise on this issue. The glory of God and the welfare of the church require such an approach.
3. The apostle’s approval
It appears that v10 is a response to accusations made by Paul’s opponents that he tried to curry favour with his hearers, perhaps tailoring his message to the Gentiles by playing down the significance of Jewish practices dear to his opponents, often termed ‘Judaizers’. Paul makes clear his concern is for the integrity of the gospel and the honour of God. Christians must be prepared to put these before personal reputation or even safety, for. God’s approval.