Galatians 2:10 – True Gospel: Leads to Right Living
Verse 10 nearly seems like a throwaway verse. We could pass over it, almost without noticing. The only instruction that the Apostles in Jerusalem give Paul and Barnabas is that they remember the poor. This, says Paul, is the very thing he was eager to do. Most likely, this is talking about the Jewish converts in Judea who were suffering as a result of famine. So Paul and the other Apostles have a specific group of people in mind. But either way, the point is that being committed to the true gospel isn’t just about agreeing intellectually with a set of ideas. It will lead to action.
It would be very easy for you to agree with everything that’s been said so far. But if we really are following the same gospel that Paul and the other Apostles taught, it will show itself in practical ways. A right understanding of the gospel doesn’t downplay the importance of good works. It just means that our works are done out of gratitude for what God has done for us, not out of an effort to try and win his favour.
Jesus said in Matthew 7: ‘Beware of false prophets’. And how were they to beware of them? He said: ‘You will recognise them by their fruits’. That includes what someone says. But it also includes what they do. If you want to know if someone’s teaching matches up with the Bible, yes listen to what they’re saying – but also look at their life.
If you want to know whether you have truly understood the gospel. You need to consider not just what you know, but how you’re living. Is there a real, genuine concern for others that shows itself in practical ways? And is it something that’s springing up inside you, rather than something that’s forced or only done out of a sense of duty or obligation?
This is an area we all fall short in. Satan could say to each one of us – you’re a fake! Your life doesn’t match up. But if there is at least some evidence of our words being backed up by our works, then let us praise God for his grace. And may our failures drive us all the more to the only one whose actions always backed up his words – Jesus Christ. The genuine gospel will always point to him. Because he is our only hope.
Questions
- What should a true understanding of the Gospel lead to?
- What should our failures in obedience lead us to do?
Prayer Points
- Pray for the preaching and hearing of God’s Word tomorrow.
- Use prayer points from your congregation.
- Pray for family matters.