A Personal Plea For Liberty – Liberated by Faith: A Study of Galatians – Pt 9 – Dr. Charles Stanley
A Personal Plea For Liberty – Liberated by Faith: A Study of Galatians – Pt 9 – Dr. Charles Stanley
Welcome to today’s reflection on God’s Word. Let’s dive into Galatians 4, where we’ll explore the freedom God grants us through faith in Christ. For weeks, we’ve been examining the liberated life Paul proclaims in Galatians—his declaration of spiritual liberty.
The backdrop of this chapter reveals a struggle within the Galatian church. Judaizers had infiltrated the community, insisting that salvation required not only faith in Jesus but also adherence to Mosaic laws. This teaching implied that to be accepted by God, believers had to meet specific legalistic standards. However, Paul firmly refutes this notion, emphasizing that salvation and our relationship with God are rooted solely in faith, not in works or rule-keeping.
The Bondage of Legalism vs. the Freedom of Faith
Paul uses an illustration at the beginning of Galatians 4 to highlight the difference between living as a servant under the law and as a child of God in freedom. He makes an impassioned plea, based on his personal relationship with the Galatians, urging them not to turn back to the bondage of legalism.
In Galatians 4:12-20, Paul writes with deep emotion:
- He appeals to them as “brethren,” urging them to embrace the freedom he experiences in Christ: “Be as I am, for I am as you are” (v. 12).
- He recounts how, despite his physical ailment—likely an eye disease—they did not reject him but welcomed him as if he were an angel or even Christ Himself (vv. 13-14). This warm reception contrasts with their current wavering under the influence of false teachers.
- Paul challenges them: “Am I now your enemy because I tell you the truth?” (v. 16), highlighting the Judaizers’ manipulative zeal, which sought to alienate them from the true gospel.
Paul’s Plea: Christ Formed in You
Paul’s ultimate goal is expressed in verse 19: “My little children, for whom I labor in birth again until Christ is formed in you.” He longs for them to fully embrace their identity in Christ, free from legalistic burdens, and to grow in spiritual maturity.
Practical Application for Today
Paul’s message is timeless. Even now, we face similar temptations to add human rules or traditions to God’s grace. But as believers, our acceptance by God is not based on what we do but on what Christ has done. Our walk is one of faith, not of striving to meet external expectations.
Let’s take Paul’s plea to heart. Stand firm in the liberty Christ has given you, and let His truth guide your faith journey. Remember, salvation is a gift of grace—one we receive by faith alone.
May this reflection inspire you to deepen your trust in God’s Word and to live a life of freedom in Christ.
