Then after three years, I went up to Jerusalem to get acquainted with Cephas[b]and stayed with him fifteen days. I saw none of the other apostles—only James, the Lord’s brother.I assure you before God that what I am writing you is no lie.Then I went to Syria and Cilicia.
I was personally unknown to the churches of Judea that are in Christ. They only heard the report: “The man who formerly persecuted us is now preaching the faith he once tried to destroy.” And they praised God because of me.
Day 5 of Galatians:
Paul began his dialogue to explain that the gospel he preaches did not come from men, but was given to him by God. Yes, he saw Peter for a short time and he saw James too. The churches in Judea knew about him but didn’t know him. They had only heard his remarkable story. It wasn’t the other disciples who shared the gospel with him. Jesus Himself took hold of Paul. What he knows and teaches came directly from Jesus.
Other men; convincing and esteemed men, have come in and twisted the gospel message. The Galatians have been influenced to this false gospel and Paul needs to set them straight. The gospel message they’ve heard is still about Jesus, but what’s been added to it changes everything. Paul needs to teach them all over again. He starts at the beginning. They need to know the source of what they believe. Will they follow a mixed message of grace plus works, or will they embrace the completed work of Jesus?
This reminds me of how many denominations and types of faith there are pertaining to Christianity, I’ve been asked if I am protestant, catholic, methodist, etc.
I am none of these, I came to God by His grace, I don’t even know the difference between denominations, but I feel Pauls way and what he taught is the way I follow, so many people can tell you about God and how to be a good Christan, but only living by the direct path given to us by Christ is the way forward.
besides many of these teachers live not what they preach,
Band Reeves “Man on a monday” says it best.
I think also alot of Christians today would benefit by being retaught.
I agree. I try to nearly never use the term “Christian” or Christianity. Christianity is a religion. Calling oneself a Christian means you follow that certain religion. The Danger is that Christianity can be corrupt just like any other religion. I prefer the term Child of God. We are supposed to have a relationship with God. We, His Children, Him our Abba Father.
After spending three years with Jesus. Can you imagine?
Sadly, this is still going on today. Even more egregiously.
Peter