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Galatians-1

My Calling: A Devotional Study on Galatians 1​

Introduction​

The Book of Galatians is a powerful defense of the Gospel message and the independence of salvation by grace alone through faith alone, apart from any works or religious ritual. But the Galatians had been troubled by false teachers who preached a message of salvation through the works of the law. Paul's letter to the Galatians was written to counteract these heresies and affirm the truths of the Gospel. As we dive into Galatians 1, let's explore the spiritual insights and profound truths embedded in Paul's persuasive message.

Section 1: My Calling (Galatians 1:11-24)​

Devotional Thought: Paul's personal background, religious upbringing, and educational background would be an asset in his ministry by man's standards. Yet he testifies that, apart from God's divine intervention, his credentials are nothing. It's a clear reminder that God's work comes from nothing and accomplishes more than man could ever hope for. May we remember that true success and blessing come from God alone, not from our human credentials.

Reflection Questions:

  • What are you relying on for your success and blessing?
  • How can you trust in God's divine intervention instead of relying on your human credentials?

Section 2: My Message (Galatians 1:10-12)​

Devotional Thought: Paul's message is not a human concoction or an inspiration from men. Instead, it came directly from Jesus through revelatory experience. This underscores the importance of being devoted to daily revelation from Jesus through prayer, Bible reading, and intentional spiritual disciplines. Consecrate yourself to God's messages and revelations, rather than relying on man-made messages.

Reflection Questions:

  • How consecrated are you to receiving messages and revelations directly from Jesus?
  • What are the spiritual disciplines you can incorporate to deepen your reliance on God's messages?

Section 3: My Persecution (Galatians 1:13-14)​

Devotional Thought: Paul's fierce opposition to the true faith has a silver lining. His zealous persecution demonstrated his ignorance of the truth and allowed him to experience the radical revelation of Jesus. This underscores the importance of true and firm opposition to error in defending the truth. Let us be zealous and persistent in defending the truth, knowing that it can lead to divine revelation and conversion.

Reflection Questions:

  • How zealous and persistent are you in defending the truth?
  • What is your posture towards false doctrines, and how could it impact your revelation and conversion?

Section 4: My Timeline (Galatians 1:15-24)​

Devotional Thought: The context surrounding Paul's conversion is significant. Three years passed between his conversion and his first reaching out to the other apostles. It teaches us the significance of baking our own cake and walking our own path without undue pressure from others. Let us trust our conversion experience, forge our own path, and allow the grace of God mature us.

Reflection Questions:

  • How confident are you in your own spiritual walk?
  • What steps are you taking to allow your own conversion experience to mature, rather than relying on others’ experiences?

Conclusion:​

In conclusion, Paul's testimony in Galatians 1 is a word direct from God's heart. It speaks to our personal development, independence of our calling; our fervour in resisting error, our reliance on messages direct from Jesus, and our unique timing in taking up our spiritual cross. These lessons are profound and relevant for every believer, no matter the stage at which they are. May we allow the spiritual revelations from Galatians chapter one set a firm foundation for our faith and soundly build upon it.