Our scripture this morning is Galatians 2:20 (NASB1995).
I have been crucified with Christ; and it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me; and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself up for me.
Paul is attempting to protect the Galatian believers from the perhaps well-meaning but misguided attempts of the Jerusalem church to have new believers adopt Jewish practices in order to be a Christ follower. As the apostle to the Gentiles, Paul preached as Jesus did, that nothing we can do for ourselves will save us. The only way to salvation is through faith in Jesus, nothing more, nothing less.
This separation between Jews and Gentiles was an ongoing issue, even after Christ’s ascension. Jesus had compassion on all people, and He taught and healed regardless of who people were. Paul was of the same mind and was sent specifically by Jesus to spread the Gospel among those who were not of the children of Israel.
It is important to note that these were not bad practices, they had been observed by Jews for a thousand years. However, belief in Jesus Christ as our savior is the only thing we need to be saved, and that is what Paul emphasizes here: “the life which I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself up for me.” We have given up our former lives and by His Spirit we go to share His love.
Gracious God, in Your mercy You made a way for all Your children to be saved through Your Son. Forgive us and help us to bring the Good News to everyone. Amen.
