Galatians 1:18-24

Summary retelling of Galatians 1:18-24

After three years of discipleship and learning, Paul went to Jerusalem to meet with Peter and James.  Even then Paul did not seek approval from human sources, only discipleship.  Then Paul went to Syria and Cilicia (most likely Antioch [with Barnabas] and Tarsus [the place of his birth]).  At this point in time he was still a virtual unknown among Christian leadership.  He was still remembered as the guy who tried to kill and persecute Christians everywhere.  However, people were glorifying God because he had converted and was now working for Christ.   

Thoughts for Today

First Thought:

Paul is still talking about how he never sought out human accolades.  Sure, he might have occasionally wanted to talk theology and make his calling from God known to other people, but he never sought “permission” from anyone.  He had God’s calling, what else did he need?  Sure he would be willing to learn from anyone – but there is a difference between gleaning from other people and needing their permission.

Is there a danger in hierarchical churches with respect to having to seek out permission from human beings?  What can we learn from Paul about what we should be seeking from our spiritual mentors instead of permission?

Second Thought:

At this point, Paul confesses that he was still a virtual unknown.  Look at what Paul does while he is an unknown.  He learns from others.  He does ministry in fairly safe environments (under other Christians and in the region of his hometown).  Paul doesn’t tackle the world until he is spiritually ready.

Is it difficult to be patient and work according to God’s plan?  Do we occasionally overlook the importance of working with God’s plan instead of living by what we think should be happening?

Third Thought:

Paul tells us very clearly where we should desire for glory to go.  Paul is concerned that God received the glory for his conversion, not himself.  After all, what did Paul do in his conversion?  Nothing!  Paul was humbled by God, Paul received the message from God, and Paul was led by God.  God did all the hard work!  God should get all the credit.

Do you seek credit for yourself regarding your spiritual growth?  How hard is it to constantly remember that everything we have spiritually comes from God?

Passage for Tomorrow: Galatians 2:1-5