Critics of the apostle Paul’s letter to the Galatians often charge him with an incomplete presentation of the gospel. Their contention is that Paul had become carried away with contesting a specific situation and neglected to treat of the whole of the gospel. For example, he barely mentions resurrection and the glory beyond.
Gnosticism
These opponents are modern-day equivalents of Paul’s first-century enemies. The critics Paul faced in Galatia were gnostic Judaizers. They were the most influential opponents of the Truth in the first century. Paul refers to them when writing Timothy: “0 Timothy, guard what has been entrusted to you. Avoid the godless chatter and contradictions of what is falsely called knowledge, for by professing it some have missed the mark as regards the faith” (1 Tim. 6:20).
These were men of influence and repute but Paul warns they are accursed of God. As recent converts, the Galatians had little confidence in their own understanding of scripture and were highly susceptible to being influenced by people of such apparent standing.
Faith and grace
As demanded by the situation, the letter’s scope is more limited than Paul’s letter to the Romans. It is a discourse designed to illustrate the superiority of faith and grace over the Law as a basis for justification. No attempt was made to provide a complete presentation of the gospel.
Paul’s critics are quick to cite this lack of balance and claim the epistle is not suitable for doctrine and instruction in righteousness. The believer chooses the apostle over the critics and assumes the narrow focus is useful even today. Making this assumption, the believer perceives that if the doctrine of justification by grace is denied, there is no reason to discuss immortality. None have hope of eternal life who think that it is based on law keeping.
A personal test
Paul had previously warned them about the consequence of perversion of the gospel. Now their conviction was being tested. Would they capitulate to men of influence and reputation? Would they forsake the Truth and become servants to the condemnation of the law?
The Galatians were to take personal responsibility for this fateful decision: “O foolish Galatians! Who has bewitched you, before whose eyes Jesus Christ was publicly portrayed as crucified? Let me ask you this: Did you receive the Spirit by works of the law, or by hearing with faith? Are you so foolish? Having begun with the Spirit, are you now ending with the flesh?” (3:1-3 RSV). In this passage, a principle is set forth for all mankind: they are responsible for preserving their own convictions irrespective of opposition from others.
Self worship
Paul knew the stakes were eternal and his letter was designed to define the problem and create a solution. The exaltation of knowledge falsely so called continues in our day. The subjects for controversy may alter, but Gnosticism easily adapts itself to new issues.
Paul’s letters are profitable for instruction and doctrine to believers in any age. The letters contain examples of issues that may arise in our ecclesias. May God bless each one of us to be thoroughly furnished unto all good works.
The Origin of the Organic World – Part One