Galatians 1:1 Paul, an apostle, (not of men, neither by man, but by Jesus Christ, and God the Father, who raised him from the dead;)… I. THIS SALUTATION EMBRACES A VINDICATION OF APOSTOLIC AUTHORITY. The Church sometimes fails to understand and estimate the honour which Christ bestows upon His chosen servants. II. THIS SALUTATION EMBRACES A DEFENCE OF APOSTOLIC DOCTRINE. "Who gave Himself for our sins, that He might deliver us from this present evil world, according to the will of God and our Father." 1. Christ's work was voluntary. "He gave Himself." 2. Christ's work was vicarious. "He gave Himself for our sins." 3. Christ's work was redemptive. "That He might deliver us from this present evil world." The idea here expressed is that of rescuing from danger. 4. Christ's redemptive work is in harmony with the will of the Father. There is no separation, much less antagonism, between the will of the Father and of the Son in saving. 5. Christ's redemptive work secures the highest praise of God. "To Him be glory for ever and ever." III. THIS SALUTATION EMBRACES A PROFOUND DESIRE FOR THE BESTOWAL OF HIGHEST BLESSINGS. "Grace be to you, and peace from God the Father, and from our Lord Jesus Christ." The greetings men offer each other are determined by the views they entertain of life. They wish each other health, long life, success, enjoyment. But Christians acknowledge another and a higher life. "These two words comprehend whatever belongs to Christianity. Grace releaseth sin, and peace makes the conscience quiet." — Luther.This desire for the highest welfare of the Galatians was the harmonious out-flow of the unselfish love of Paul and his fellow-labourers. "And all the brethren which are," etc. Lessons: 1. It is sometimes necessary for God's servants to defend their office and teaching. 2. We learn the Spirit we should cherish toward men. We can desire for others no greater blessings than grace and peace. (Richard Nicholls.) Parallel Verses KJV: Paul, an apostle, (not of men, neither by man, but by Jesus Christ, and God the Father, who raised him from the dead;) |
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