The
Book of Galatians
The book of Galatians was probably written from Macedonia A.D. 57 - A.D. 58. A large part of the letter is taken up with proofs of the apostle's Divine authority. The major portion, however, is devoted to refuting the teaching of such as would lead back the Galatians to bondage, for many of them desired to be under the Law. Paul taught the Galatians that there is no difference between Jew and Gentile before God. The Jews for the most part wanted the gentiles to become Jewish and keep the law of Moses in order to be saved. Paul, and the book of Galatians changed all that. The book of Galatians became the cornerstone of the Protestant Reformation. "The salvation by grace through faith," was the theme for the reformers. Martin Luther (German professor of theology), lectured on the book of Galatians and was widely read among the common people. Lets forget the old Jewish law and see how God opens salvation up to the gentiles and all who believe.
Galatians 1
1Paul, an apostle, (not of men, neither by man, but by Jesus Christ, and God the Father, who raised him from the dead). Paul was called to the ministry by God Himself (struck blind), on the road to Damascus. He was not called by any man or group. (Acts 9:6). God appoints His own to work in the ministry; if you are not called by God to serve in His work, just keep doing what you are doing.2And all the brethren which are with me, unto the churches of Galatia. The collection of the saints (those working with Paul), giving order to the Galatians. (I Corinthians 16:1).
3Grace be to you and peace from God the Father, and from our Lord Jesus Christ. Peace and blessings to you from the Heavenly Father and our Lord Jesus Christ.
4Who gave himself for our sins, that he might deliver us from this present evil world, according to the will of God and our Father. Through the will of God the Father, Christ died for our sins to rescue us from this evil world in which we live. He died for the sins of the world. (I John 2:2).
5To whom be glory for ever and ever. Amen. All the Glory to God through the ages of eternity.
6I marvel that ye are so soon removed from him that called you into the grace of Christ unto another gospel. Turning away from the ways of Christ and following traditions of men and another gospel. Look at all the beliefs going on in today's world. No two family members can worship together anymore; one follows this denomination, another follows teachings of cults, and others don't care at all. (They have their own gay agendas and could care less).
7Which is not another; but there be some that trouble you, and would pervert the gospel of Christ. You are being fooled and listen to those who twist and change the Gospel of Christ. (II Corinthians 11:4, Acts 15:1). Churches today will follow anything that keeps people coming and filling their baskets. (What ever makes you feel good we will teach).
8But though we, or an angel from heaven, preach any other gospel unto you than that which we have preached unto you, let him be accursed. This word "angel" here is ("aggelos" Strong's Greek G32, a messenger by implication a pastor). Let anyone be "cursed" that teaches you another Gospel, other than the Gospel of Christ that we have preached to you. (I Corinthians 16:22). Stick to God's Word and forget the fairy tail teaching.
9As we said before, so say I now again, if any man preach any other gospel unto you than that ye have received, let him be accursed. Paul warns them again. Preach any other Gospel other that you have received, "you will be cursed. (Deuteronomy 4:2, 12:32, Revelation 22:18).
10For do I now persuade men, or God? or do I seek to please men? for if I yet pleased men, I should not be the servant of Christ. I am not trying to sweet talk you to please you. I am trying to please God. If any man tries to please you with false teachings and traditions of men, he is not a servant of Christ. (James 4:4).
11But I certify you, brethren, that the gospel which was preached of me is not after man. Paul is telling the brethren, I teach the truth of the word, not mans version.
12For I neither received it of man, neither was I taught it, but by the revelation of Jesus Christ. My message comes from Jesus Christ Himself who taught me. (Ephesians 3:3-6). "Right from the teachings of Christ." However, things have not changed. If Christ was here today, many people would still not listen. They would still follow their priest or pastor.
13For ye have heard of my conversation in time past in the Jews' religion, how that beyond measure I persecuted the church of God, and wasted it. You know how I followed the Jewish religion before and persecuted Christians mercilessly trying to get rid of them. (Acts 8:3). Paul was on the other side in the beginning of his life till He seen the light.
14And profited in the Jews' religion above many my equals in mine own nation, being more exceedingly zealous of the traditions of my fathers. I was very zealous in the Jewish religion. (Philippians 3:6), following the traditions of my fathers. (Jeremiah 9:14).
15But when it pleased God, who separated me from my mother's womb, and called me by his grace. Paul was ordained and chosen by God even before he was born to serve in the ministry. He "just didn't get it" till later in his life. (Jeremiah 1:5, Acts 9:15).
16To reveal his Son in me, that I might preach him among the heathen; immediately I conferred not with flesh and blood. It was God who revealed His Son the Christ to Paul, just as he did Peter. (Matthew 16:17). Paul's purpose to serve was to bring the Good News about Jesus to the gentiles. God wanted everyone to have a chance at salvation, not just a select few or one type of people.
17Neither went I up to Jerusalem to them which were apostles before me; but I went into Arabia, and returned again unto Damascus. Paul went to Arabia first and then came back to Damascus.
18Then after three years I went up to Jerusalem to see Peter, and abode with him fifteen days. After three years of teaching the gentiles, then he went to stay with Peter for a while.
19But other of the apostles saw I none, save James the Lord's brother. The only other Apostle Paul met at the time was James, the brother of Jesus.
20Now the things which I write unto you, behold, before God, I lie not. Paul was explaining to the Apostles that he was converted during this time and was no longer an enemy to the Christians. It took them a while to trust Paul, but they finally would give in.
21Afterwards I came into the regions of Syria and Cilicia. At the time Saul (Paul), went to Syria and Cilicia, the apostles were still afraid of him. (Acts 9:30). Well, maybe not so much afraid, but rather a little sceptical.
22And was unknown by face unto the churches of Judaea which were in Christ. The Christians in Judea didn't even know what he looked like at that time.
23But they had heard only, That he which persecuted us in times past now preacheth the faith which once he destroyed. All they knew was that people were saying; "Our former enemy is now preaching the same faith he tried to destroy."
24And they glorified God in me. They gave glory to God because of Paul's conversion and the truth he was teaching. It might of took a while, but they finally caught on to Paul's teachings and knew he was on their side.
Galatians 2
1Then fourteen years after I went up again to Jerusalem with Barnabas, and took Titus with me also. Paul went back to Jerusalem with two witnesses to confer with the other brethren about teaching to the gentiles. (Acts 15:2).2And I went up by revelation, and communicated unto them that gospel which I preach among the Gentiles, but privately to them which were of reputation, lest by any means I should run, or had run, in vain. Paul conferred with them in private to see if what he was teaching was right. Always good to have one or two witnesses thinking the same way you do.
3But neither Titus, who was with me, being a Greek, was compelled to be circumcised. They agreed with Paul about the circumcision not being necessary to teaching of the gentiles. (Christianity is not about flesh, its a reality of the spirit within).
4And that because of false brethren unawares brought in, who came in privily to spy out our liberty which we have in Christ Jesus, that they might bring us into bondage. Their were false brethren present that did not like the freedom that was being taught in Jesus Christ. They wanted everyone tied up in all their rules, regulations, and traditions. Just like many churches do today. They are like cults putting their members in bondage under their control. We are to be free from bondage in Jesus Christ. Christianity is "real life," not religion. "If you attend a church with a bunch of rules and regulations to follow, your in a cult!"
5To whom we gave place by subjection, no, not for an hour; that the truth of the gospel might continue with you. But they didn't listen to the traditionalists. Paul didn't want the gentiles to be confused into thinking that salvation can be earned by being circumcised and obeying Jewish laws. Salvation comes to whom ever will by believing in Jesus Christ and His teachings. (John 3:16).
6But of these who seemed to be somewhat, (whatsoever they were, it maketh no matter to me: God accepteth no man's person:) for they who seemed to be somewhat in conference added nothing to me. The so called great leaders of the church who were present had nothing to add to what Paul was teaching. It would not have made any difference to Paul anyway how great they thought they were, because everyone is the same in God's eyes. "These guys were just puffed up on religion." (You know the ones and how they act).
7But contrariwise, when they saw that the gospel of the uncircumcision was committed unto me, as the gospel of the circumcision was unto Peter. They seen that Paul was committed to teaching the Gentiles, just as much as Peter was in preaching to the Jews. (Paul was the one who brought the freedom of Christianity to us (the gentiles), through the teachings of Jesus Christ.
8(For he that wrought effectually in Peter to the apostleship of the circumcision, the same was mighty in me toward the Gentiles:). God had used Paul in winning over the Gentiles just as He used Peter to winning over the Jews. (Peter was one of the Jews who some how got tied in with the papacy in their eyes, making him the head of their religion). It was Paul and others such as Martin Luther (a German Scholar), who brought the freedom of Christianity to all believers in Jesus Christ.
9And when James, Cephas, and John, who seemed to be pillars, perceived the grace that was given unto me, they gave to me and Barnabas the right hands of fellowship; that we should go unto the heathen, and they unto the circumcision. God had given all of them their special gifts of teaching and they encouraged each other to continue their works with the Jews and the Gentiles. "We are all given special gifts of God in serving Him, and we should find out where we fit in and utilize them."
10Only they would that we should remember the poor; the same which I also was forward to do. They were all in agreement in helping the poor. (The poor in spirit). We are to fish for the lost souls (those who are of the wrong spirit and bring them towards the light).
11But when Peter was come to Antioch, I withstood him to the face, because he was to be blamed. Paul had to oppose Peter when Peter came to Antioch for what he was doing. (Peter was kind of puffed up when it came to the law of the Jews).
12For before that certain came from James, he did eat with the Gentiles: but when they were come, he withdrew and separated himself, fearing them which were of the circumcision. He ate with the Gentiles who did not obey the Jewish laws until some of the Jewish legalists showed up and then he would not eat with them anymore. He was worried what the legalists would say. (He was kind of being a hypocrite). You don't need to worry what man thinks, listen to God and what He thinks.
13And the other Jews dissembled likewise with him; insomuch that Barnabas also was carried away with their dissimulation. Barnabas and the other Jewish Christians with Peter also became hypocrites and left.
14But when I saw that they walked not uprightly according to the truth of the gospel, I said unto Peter before them all, If thou, being a Jew, livest after the manner of Gentiles, and not as do the Jews, why compellest thou the Gentiles to live as do the Jews? They weren't being honest about what they really believed. Believe the truth of the Gospel when the gentiles were around and believe the Jewish laws when the Jews were around. "That's playing church and being a hypocrite."
15We who are Jews by nature, and not sinners of the Gentiles. Jews by birth only. Not born like the sinner Gentiles according to the Jewish laws. "They forgot, we are all sinners in Gods eyes."
16Knowing that a man is not justified by the works of the law, but by the faith of Jesus Christ, even we have believed in Jesus Christ, that we might be justified by the faith of Christ, and not by the works of the law: for by the works of the law shall no flesh be justified. They knew as Jewish Christians that they could not have salvation by obeying Jewish laws. They could only be right with God by having faith in Jesus Christ. They knew this but they were not practicing it. (Acts 13:38-39, Romans 1:17, Romans 8:3). Still goes on today in most denominations.
17But if, while we seek to be justified by Christ, we ourselves also are found sinners, is therefore Christ the minister of sin? God forbid. God forbid that we think that trusting in Christ is wrong and that we cannot be saved except we obey the Jewish laws.
18For if I build again the things which I destroyed, I make myself a transgressor. We would be sinners if we go back to the old way of trying to be saved by keeping the laws. Get real people; "the law will never save you," only Christ can do the saving.
19For I through the law am dead to the law, that I might live unto God. It is through the scriptures that we realize we cannot find favor with God by keeping the law. Acceptance with God comes by believing in Christ. (Romans 6:14, Hebrews 9:14).
20I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me. Paul was explaining that his old self was crucified with Christ; and now Christ lives within him by accepting Christ and believing in Him. (Romans 6:6, II Corinthians 5:15). This is what baptism is all about. Symbolically being buried with Christ and resurrecting to a new person with Christ living within you.
21I do not frustrate the grace of God: for if righteousness come by the law, then Christ is dead in vain. Don't treat Christ's death meaningless. If you could be saved by keeping the law, then there was no need for Christ to die. (Hebrews 7:11). Christ paid an awesome price with His life so that we can all have a chance of everlasting life. (John 3:16). Follow man and the ways of the world and your chances will diminish.
Galatians 3
1O foolish Galatians, who hath bewitched you, that ye should not obey the truth, before whose eyes Jesus Christ hath been evidently set forth, crucified among you? What magician (false teacher), has deceived you. You used to see the meaning of Christ's death as clearly as a picture.2This only would I learn of you, Received ye the Spirit by the works of the law, or by the hearing of faith? Did you receive the Holy Spirit by keeping the law, or after you heard about Jesus Christ? (Acts 2:38). "The law will never save you, only Jesus can do the saving."
3Are ye so foolish? having begun in the Spirit, are ye now made perfect by the flesh? If the law never gave you spiritual life before, why do you think it will now? Get with it; forget the old laws and regulations and get into the spirit. The new testament law of salvation through faith.
4Have ye suffered so many things in vain? if it be yet in vain. You suffered so much for the Gospel of Christ, now you just want to throw it overboard. (Don't fall into traditions of men).
5He therefore that ministereth to you the Spirit, and worketh miracles among you, doeth he it by the works of the law, or by the hearing of faith? Does God give you the power of the Holy Spirit by obeying the laws? Not at all; It is when you believe in Christ and fully trust in Him. Then the power of the spirit will come upon you.
6Even as Abraham believed God, and it was accounted to him for righteousness. God declared Abraham fit for heaven because he believed God's promises, not just the law.
7Know ye therefore that they which are of faith, the same are the children of Abraham. The real children of Abraham are the men of faith who truly trusted God. Do you trust in Jesus, or some man?
8And the scripture, foreseeing that God would justify the heathen through faith, preached before the gospel unto Abraham, saying, In thee shall all nations be blessed. The scriptures told us of the gentiles in the future that would be saved through their faith. "I will bless those in every nation who trust in me." (Genesis 12:1-3). God loves all His children the same, he does not play fovorites.
9So then they which be of faith are blessed with faithful Abraham. All who trust in Christ receive the same blessing that Abraham did. (Christianity is not for one race, it is for all people who believe).
10For as many as are of the works of the law are under the curse: for it is written, Cursed is every one that continueth not in all things which are written in the book of the law to do them. Those who still depend on the law to save them are under God's curse, because the scriptures tell us very clearly, "Cursed is everyone who at any time breaks a single one of these laws." (Deuteronomy 27:26, Jeremiah 11:3). No man, woman, or child can keep all the laws. That is why salvation can only come through faith.
11But that no man is justified by the law in the sight of God, it is evident: for, The just shall live by faith. No one can wins God's favor by trying to keep the old Jewish laws. Habakkuk says it best: "The man who finds life will find it through trusting God." (Habakkuk 2:4, Hebrews 10:38). "Faith is trusting God."
12And the law is not of faith: but, The man that doeth them shall live in them. You can either live by all the old laws that no one can keep, or you can live by faith in Jesus Christ.
13Christ hath redeemed us from the curse of the law, being made a curse for us: for it is written, Cursed is every one that hangeth on a tree. Christ has brought us out from under the curse for our wrongdoing upon Himself. It is written that anyone hanged on a tree is cursed. (Deuteronomy 21:23). Jesus broke the curse by dying on the cross for the sins of the world.
14That the blessing of Abraham might come on the Gentiles through Jesus Christ; that we might receive the promise of the Spirit through faith. Now because of what Christ has done, God can bless the Gentiles too, with the same blessing He promised to Abraham. (Romans 4:9). We can all as Christians have the promise of the Holy Spirit through this faith. (Isaiah 32:15, 44:3, Ezekiel 11:19, Joel 2:28).
15Brethren, I speak after the manner of men; Though it be but a man's covenant, yet if it be confirmed, no man disannulleth, or addeth thereto. This covenant (Testament), from our Heavenly Father cannot be changed. It is like a written contract that is signed, sealed and delivered.
16Now to Abraham and his seed were the promises made. He saith not, And to seeds, as of many; but as of one, And to thy seed, which is Christ. We are all one family under God through Christ. (I Corinthians 12:12). The problem is, its one family that can't seem to get along. (Kind of like all families in today's world).
17And this I say, that the covenant, that was confirmed before of God in Christ, the law, which was four hundred and thirty years after, cannot disannul, that it should make the promise of none effect. This law could not be changed even 430 years later when God gave the ten commandments. (Romans 4:13-14).
18For if the inheritance be of the law, it is no more of promise: but God gave it to Abraham by promise. Abraham gained favor with God through faith, not by keeping the Jewish laws. (Romans 4:14, 8:17).
19Wherefore then serveth the law? It was added because of transgressions, till the seed should come to whom the promise was made; and it was ordained by angels in the hand of a mediator. Then why were the laws given? They were added after the promise was given, to show men how guilty they are of breaking God's laws. (I Timothy 1:9). (Given as examples of sin). This system of the law was to only last until the coming of Christ. Now Christ is our mediator (our lawyer), for all the law and for all sin through faith in Him. In the Old Testament when the law was given, the angels were the mediator between God and Moses, and Moses the mediator between God, the angels, and the people. (Exodus 20:19, Deuteronomy 5:5).
20Now a mediator is not a mediator of one, but God is one. God gave His promise to Abraham, He did it by Himself alone, without angels or Moses as go-betweens. He is the God of the Jews and the Gentiles. (Romans 3:29).
21Is the law then against the promises of God? God forbid: for if there had been a law given which could have given life, verily righteousness should have been by the law. Are God's laws and God's promises against each other? Not at all... We still have the law of the commandments. Christ came to fulfill the law not to do away with it. (Matthew 5:17-18). The ten commandments still stand together with faith in Jesus Christ. If you believe in Jesus Christ; you will do your best to obey the ten commandments.
22But the scripture hath concluded all under sin, that the promise by faith of Jesus Christ might be given to them that believe. If we could have been saved by the law, God would not have given us another way out through faith in Jesus Christ. (Man can never obey all the laws; that is why we have Jesus Christ for a chance at salvation).
23But before faith came, we were kept under the law, shut up unto the faith which should afterwards be revealed. Before Christ came we were prisoners to the law. (Until we could believe in the coming of the Savior). Many still prefer to be prisoners to laws and traditions.
24Wherefore the law was our schoolmaster to bring us unto Christ, that we might be justified by faith. The Jewish laws were our teacher and guide until Christ came to give us right standing with God through faith. (Just as the ten commandments are still a guide to righteous living).
25But after that faith is come, we are no longer under a schoolmaster. Now that Christ has come, we do not need those laws to guard us and lead us to Him.
26For ye are all the children of God by faith in Christ Jesus. We are all Children of God (both Jew and Gentile), through faith in Jesus Christ. (John 1:12).
27For as many of you as have been baptized into Christ have put on Christ. We that have been baptized into union with Christ are enveloped by Him.
28There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither bond nor free, there is neither male nor female: for ye are all one in Christ Jesus. We are all Christians and now all one in Christ. (Romans 10:12, John 10:16, 17:21).
29And if ye be Christ's, then are ye Abraham's seed, and heirs according to the promise. If we are of Christ, then we are true descendants of Abraham, and all of the promises to him belong to us also. (Romans 8:17, 9:7, Hebrews 11:18). No favored people here, God loves all His children who come to the light through faith in Jesus Christ. However, if you follow the ways of the world and Satan, you may lose favor with God.
Galatians 4
1Now I say, That the heir, as long as he is a child, differeth nothing from a servant, though he be lord of all. If a father dies and leaves his wealth to his little son, that child is not better off than the son of a servant until he grows up, even though he owns everything his father had.2But is under tutors and governors until the time appointed of the father. He still has to listen and do what his guardians tell him, until he reaches whatever age his father has set for him to take charge.
3Even so we, when we were children, were in bondage under the elements of the world. We were the same way before Christ came. We were slaves to Jewish laws and rituals because we thought they could save us. (Colossians 2:8, Hebrews 9:10).
4But when the fulness of the time was come, God sent forth his Son, made of a woman, made under the law. When the right time came, God sent His Son, born of woman, under the law. (Genesis 49:10, John 1:14, Hebrews 2:14). But Christ did not come to destroy the law, but to fulfill the law. (Matthew 5:17). Much of the law still stands. (The ten commandments for example).
5To redeem them that were under the law, that we might receive the adoption of sons. Christ came so that we could be free from the law and adopt us as His very own sons. (Matthew 20:28, I Peter 1:18, John 1:12).
6And because ye are sons, God hath sent forth the Spirit of his Son into your hearts, crying, Abba, Father. Because we are His sons, God has sent the "Spirit" of His Son into our hearts, so we can call God our Father. What Spirit are we talking about here? "The Holy Spirit." Its your choice, you can have the holy spirit (the good side), or you can have the evil spirit within (the bad side). "That was the devils choice."
7Wherefore thou art no more a servant, but a son; and if a son, then an heir of God through Christ. We are now "children of God" and everything He has belongs to us if we believe. (Romans 8:16). "Notice the condition of believing." However, you must get to know Christ through the Word before you can believe in Him. Did you ever try to believe in someone you don't even know?
8Howbeit then, when ye knew not God, ye did service unto them which by nature are no gods. Before you Gentiles knew God, you were slaves to false gods that did not even exist. (Ephesians 2:12, Romans 1:25, I Thessalonians 1:9). "Many still believe in false gods."
9But now, after that ye have known God, or rather are known of God, how turn ye again to the weak and beggarly elements, whereunto ye desire again to be in bondage? Now you know God, but yet you want to go back and become slaves trying to get to heaven by obeying the old laws again. "Many still try to gain salvation by keeping the law."
10Ye observe days, and months, and times, and years. Your trying to gain favor with God by keeping certain religious holidays. "Do you really think celebrating a holiday will keep you right with God?" (Some thing just going to church once in a while is all it takes).
11I am afraid of you, lest I have bestowed upon you labour in vain. Paul is saying that all his work was wasted teaching them the truth. "They just didn't get it." (Many just don't get it today). "They think all is well and they are so blessed with their everyday worldly lives."
12Brethren, I beseech you, be as I am; for I am as ye are: ye have not injured me at all. I am free from these chains as you used to be. You did not despise me when I first preached you these things, but now you are slipping from the truth.
13Ye know how through infirmity of the flesh I preached the gospel unto you at the first. Even though I was sick, I brought you "The Good News" of Christ. (I Corinthians 2:3-5).
14And my temptation which was in my flesh ye despised not, nor rejected; but received me as an angel of God, even as Christ Jesus. My sickness was revolting to you, but you took me in and cared for me as if I was an angel of God.
15Where is then the blessedness ye spake of? for I bear you record, that, if it had been possible, ye would have plucked out your own eyes, and have given them to me. Where is the spirit you had before when we were together. You would have given me sight if you could have back then with your own eyes. (This is talking about when Paul was struck down and blinded on the road to Damascus).
16Am I therefore become your enemy, because I tell you the truth? Now I have become your enemy because I tell you the truth. (You either accept all the truth or none of the truth). You can't take a little truth here and a little false teaching there because they won't mix. STICK TO THE TRUTH!
17They zealously affect you, but not well; yea, they would exclude you, that ye might affect them. Those false teachers want to win your favor so you will pay more attention to them. (False teachers will always come around with something new to draw you from the truth). They make promises they can't keep, and feed you teachings they can't back up. (But it make you feel so holy and above everyone else that you fall for it hook, line and sinker).
18But it is good to be zealously affected always in a good thing, and not only when I am present with you. It's good when people are nice to you, but not just when I am with you. (Beware of phony's and hypocrites).
19My little children, of whom I travail in birth again until Christ be formed in you. Your hurting me, longing for the time when you will finally be filled with Christ.
20I desire to be present with you now, and to change my voice; for I stand in doubt of you. I wish I could be with you now and not have to reason with you like this.
21Tell me, ye that desire to be under the law, do ye not hear the law? Find out what these laws really mean before you think you can be saved by them. (Do the research).
22For it is written, that Abraham had two sons, the one by a bondmaid, the other by a freewoman. One son by his slave-wife (Hagar), and one son by his free-born wife (Sarah). (Genesis 16:15, 21:2).
23But he who was of the bondwoman was born after the flesh; but he of the freewoman was by promise. Nothing unusual about the birth of the slave wife's baby. But, the baby of the free-born wife was born only after God had promised he would come. (Romans 9:7-8).
24Which things are an allegory: for these are the two covenants; the one from the mount Sinai, which gendereth to bondage, which is Agar. This is an illustration by God to show two ways of helping people. He gave the ten commandments on Mount Sinai (Mount Hagar).
25For this Agar is mount Sinai in Arabia, and answereth to Jerusalem which now is, and is in bondage with her children. Abraham's slave wife "Hagar" represents Jerusalem, "the mother city of the Jews" who were always trying to please God by trying to obey the commandments. The Jews trying to follow that system, are her slave children.
26But Jerusalem which is above is free, which is the mother of us all. But our mother-city is the "Heavenly Jerusalem" and she is not a slave to Jewish laws. (Isaiah 2:2, Hebrews 12:22, Revelation 3:12, 21:2).
27For it is written, Rejoice, thou barren that bearest not; break forth and cry, thou that travailest not: for the desolate hath many more children than she which hath an husband. That was what was prophesied by Isaiah. "Shout with joy childless woman who never before had a child." I am going to give you many children, even more than the slave-wife has. (Isaiah 54:1).
28Now we, brethren, as Isaac was, are the children of promise. We are now all children that God promised, just as Isaac was. (Romans 4:16).
29But as then he that was born after the flesh persecuted him that was born after the Spirit, even so it is now. We who are born of the "Holy Spirit" are persecuted by those who want us to keep the Jewish laws. Just as Isaac the child of promise was persecuted by Ishmael the slave-wife's son. (Genesis 21:9).
30Nevertheless what saith the scripture? Cast out the bondwoman and her son: for the son of the bondwoman shall not be heir with the son of the freewoman. The scriptures say that God told Abraham to send away the slave-wife and her son, so that the slave-wife's son could not inherit Abraham's home and land along with the free-woman's son. (Galatians 3:8, John 8:35).
31So then, brethren, we are not children of the bondwoman, but of the free. We are not children in bondage by the law. "We are children of the free-woman, acceptable to God by our faith." Do not fall into bondage by some church or cult trying to control your lives. Learn and study God's Word and it will set your free. "Your a free agent in the eyes of God, so start acting like one."
Galatians 5
1Stand fast therefore in the liberty wherewith Christ hath made us free, and be not entangled again with the yoke of bondage. Christ has made us free. (John 8:32). Make sure you stay free and don't get all tied up in the chains of slavery to the Jewish laws and ceremonies. (Acts 15:10). Not only Jewish laws, but don't get tied up under bondage to any religion, organization, or traditions of men. Any religious organization that has you restricted to their church doctrine, rules and regulation, is a cult.2Behold, I Paul say unto you, that if ye be circumcised, Christ shall profit you nothing. If you depend on physical circumcision and keeping the laws and traditions to make you right with God, then Christ cannot save you. No church doctrine, catechism, or door to door soliciting will give you salvation. Its the freedom of true Christianity that sets you free from bondage.
3For I testify again to every man that is circumcised, that he is a debtor to do the whole law. If you think your going to find favor with God by just being circumcised, you are wrong. You will need to obey every other Jewish law then or perish. No one could ever keep all the laws in the bible, Jew or Gentile, that is why Christ came to fulfill the law. He gives us a new covenant that supersedes the old law. "The law of salvation through faith."
4Christ is become of no effect unto you, whosoever of you are justified by the law; ye are fallen from grace. Christ is useless to you if you are counting on the laws to save you, and you are lost from God's grace. (Romans 9:31, Hebrews 12:15).
5For we through the Spirit wait for the hope of righteousness by faith. As Christians, with the help of the "Holy Spirit" are counting on Christ's death to clear our sin and make us right with God. We are saved by hope. (Romans 8:24).
6For in Jesus Christ neither circumcision availeth any thing, nor uncircumcision; but faith which worketh by love. We as Christians don't need to depend on the law and traditions. All we need is faith working through love in Christ. Our faith and good works is what we should be striving for. (I Thessalonians 1:3, James 2:18). "Faith and good works go hand in hand."
7Ye did run well; who did hinder you that ye should not obey the truth? You were all doing so good and getting along so well. Who has interfered to hold you back from the truth? (Beware of false teachers, new doctrines, and traditions of men). Their is a strong evil force in the world today that is pulling many away from the truth. You know who he is and this is his world to control for now. "Yes, I'm talking about the Satan."
8This persuasion cometh not of him that calleth you. It wasn't God who did this. He is the one who called you to freedom through Christ. (Never blame God for all the evil in the world).
9A little leaven leaveneth the whole lump. It only takes one wrong person to infect all the others. You see it in every day life among none believers and those who are ignorant of the truth of the Word. If you let them, they will have you believing or acting like them. "Stay true to the Word of God."
10I have confidence in you through the Lord, that ye will be none otherwise minded: but he that troubleth you shall bear his judgment, whosoever he be. I am trusting in the Lord to bring you back to the truth of the Word. As for the person who has been deceiving you with false teachings and traditions of men; God will deal with them. "All you false priests, pastors, and teachers will all be in for a unwanted surprise." JUDGMENT BEGINS AT THE PULPIT!
11And I, brethren, if I yet preach circumcision, why do I yet suffer persecution? then is the offence of the cross ceased. Some people try to accuse me for teaching circumcision, Jewish laws, and that traditions are necessary for salvation. If that were true, I would not be persecuted like I am. This proves that I am still teaching salvation through faith in the cross of Christ, is the only true way to eternal life.
12I would they were even cut off which trouble you. I wish these foolish teachers would just leave you alone. Those who try to teach circumcision as the only way to salvation. (Acts 15:1). Get away from those who are always trying to con you with mans doctrine by twisting the word to make you feel comfortable. Believe me, as long as you keep handing over the cash, they will feed you what you want to hear.
13For, brethren, ye have been called unto liberty; only use not liberty for an occasion to the flesh, but by love serve one another. You have been given your freedom through Christ, but not freedom to do wrong. You are to do what is right.
14For all the law is fulfilled in one word, even in this; Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself. The law can be summed up in one command. "Love others as you love yourself." (Leviticus 19:18). If people would only treat others like they want to be treated, this would be a much better world.
15But if ye bite and devour one another, take heed that ye be not consumed one of another. When you are critical and catty among each other, you need to watch out! Watch so you don't ruin each other by talking behind peoples back. "Remember, Satan controls social media."
16This I say then, Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfil the lust of the flesh. Listen to the Holy Spirit, then you will not want to follow the lust of the flesh. (Romans 6:12).
17For the flesh lusteth against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh: and these are contrary the one to the other: so that ye cannot do the things that ye would. Our flesh always wants to do wrong and what is the opposite or against the Holy Spirit. Just as the Holy Spirit wants to do what is right and what is the opposite or against the flesh. (Romans 7:15, 7:23). You will always have one battling against the other, go to the light, listen to the spirit, control the flesh. "It takes discipline."
18But if ye be led of the Spirit, ye are not under the law. When you are guided by the Spirit, there is no need to obey the old law. "The Holy Spirit will always guide you to righteousness, truth and salvation.
19Now the works of the flesh are manifest, which are these; Adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lasciviousness. When you follow your way of the flesh you produce evil results. Impure thoughts and eagerness for lustful pleasures and shameless acts.
20Idolatry, witchcraft, hatred, variance, emulations, wrath, strife, seditions, heresies. Idolatry, spiritism, hatred, fighting, jealousy, anger, constant effort to get the best for yourself, feeling that everyone else is wrong except those in your own little group. You can see this in many churches today who are suppose to be Christians. What we believe is right and everyone else is wrong. Wake up people; no one man, woman, church or ministry, has all the right answers. If they say that they do, they are lying to you and setting themselves up to be gods of their own cult. Only Jesus Christ and the Heavenly Father have all the answers. "All truth will be revealed at the proper time."
21Envyings, murders, drunkenness, revellings, and such like: of the which I tell you before, as I have also told you in time past, that they which do such things shall not inherit the kingdom of God. Envy, murder (Criminal homicide), drunkenness, partying all the time and never caring about God. Those who do these things all the time will not inherit the Kingdom of God. (Revelation 22:14-15).
22But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith. When the Holy Spirit controls our lives we will produce good fruit. Love, joy, peace, kindness, patience, faithfulness. We will bring people to the truth and out of bondage from false teaching and traditions of men.
23Meekness, temperance: against such there is no law. Gentleness, self-control. With these actions, there is no conflict with the law. What law? The ten commandments is a good start. Not one of these actions is against any of the ten commandments, or any other laws of God. (The commandments are good, they keep us on the right track to salvation).
24And they that are Christ's have crucified the flesh with the affections and lusts. Those who belong to Christ have nailed their natural evil desires to the cross and crucified them there. (Colossians 6:8-10). Well, we would all like it to be that easy, but your are always going to mess up along the way. (That is why we have repentance). When we go wrong, we repent to the Heavenly Father directly. "You don't need some man to repent to, they can't do anything for you."
25If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit. If we claim to live in the Spirit, let us try our best to follow the spirit in every way. "Talk the talk, walk the walk."
26Let us not be desirous of vain glory, provoking one another, envying one another. Don't look for honors, titles, and popularity, which only lead to jealously, self pride, and hard feelings. "Mans rewards are worthless." (Stay humble and true to the Word and God will reward you later).
Galatians 6
1Brethren, if a man be overtaken in a fault, ye which are spiritual, restore such an one in the spirit of meekness; considering thyself, lest thou also be tempted. If another Christian brother or sister is overcome by some sin, you as Christians should help them back onto the right path when possible. The next time it could be you who is in the wrong and you may need help getting back on the right path.2Bear ye one another's burdens, and so fulfil the law of Christ. Share each others problems obeying the Lord's command. (Its good to talk about your problems at times if you find the right person to listen).
3For if a man think himself to be something, when he is nothing, he deceiveth himself. If anyone thinks they are to good to stoop to this level, they are fooling themselves. "They are really a nobody."
4But let every man prove his own work, and then shall he have rejoicing in himself alone, and not in another. Let everyone be sure they are doing their very best, giving them personal satisfaction of work well done. Then they won't need to compare themselves to someone else. (II Corinthians 13:5). The only one you need to please is your Heavenly Father, and He loves it when you try your best to do good works.
5For every man shall bear his own burden. We all must bear our own burdens. None of us our perfect. (Romans 2:6). (Quit putting the blame on everyone else when you do something wrong).
6Let him that is taught in the word communicate unto him that teacheth in all good things. Nevertheless, the one who receives instruction in the word should share all good things with their instructor. (Let Jesus Christ be your instructor; He loves when you share your opinions with Him).
7Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap. You can't fool God. You will reap what you sow. Do good and good things will happen to you. Do evil and expect trouble coming your way.
8For he that soweth to his flesh shall of the flesh reap corruption; but he that soweth to the Spirit shall of the Spirit reap life everlasting. If you search out doctrine or material things to please your flesh, you will reap a harvest of spiritual decay and death. But, if you search and plant good sound doctrine and truth in the Word (good things of the spirit), then you will reap the everlasting life which the Holy Spirit offers.
9And let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not. Don't get tired or discouraged of doing what is right, because if you hang in there (endure till the end), you will receive a harvest of blessings. (Matthew 24:13). "Never give up doing the work of the Lord."
10As we have therefore opportunity, let us do good unto all men, especially unto them who are of the household of faith. Whenever it is possible, we should be kind to everyone, especially to our Christian brothers and sisters. Remember, "if they are believers," they are part of the many member body of Christ.
11Ye see how large a letter I have written unto you with mine own hand. I Paul wrote this large letter to you in my own hand. Paul had plenty to say in his teachings because he loved the Galatians.
12As many as desire to make a fair shew in the flesh, they constrain you to be circumcised; only lest they should suffer persecution for the cross of Christ. Those false teachers of yours are trying to convince you to do what is wrong so they can be popular and avoid the persecution. The flack they would get by teaching that the cross of Christ can save you alone. (Philippians 3:18). They are enemies of the cross of Christ. (Beware of new and popular doctrine among churches and ministries today). Keep in mind that only Christ does the saving; "not any man, woman, or specific denomination.
13For neither they themselves who are circumcised keep the law; but desire to have you circumcised, that they may glory in your flesh. They can't keep their laws themselves, but they expect you to so they can boast that you are their disciples. (Do as I say, not as I do).
14But God forbid that I should glory, save in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, by whom the world is crucified unto me, and I unto the world. Paul is saying here; God forbid that I should boast about anything except the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ. The things of the world are dead in me. And the worlds interest in me are dead also. Paul was not caught up in all the worldly matters, he stuck to teaching truth, and was hated by many for doing so. (If you teach the truth, even your own family members will ignore you).
15For in Christ Jesus neither circumcision availeth any thing, nor uncircumcision, but a new creature. It makes no difference whether we are circumcised or not; what counts is whether we have been changed into a new person in Christ. (II Corinthians 5:17). Its the circumcision of the heart that counts; purge out the evil knowledge and fill your cup with the knowledge of God. (Anything good comes from God).
16And as many as walk according to this rule, peace be on them, and mercy, and upon the Israel of God. May God's mercy be upon those who live by this principle and upon those who are really God's own.
17From henceforth let no man trouble me: for I bear in my body the marks of the Lord Jesus. So, from now on don't argue with me about these things. I am marked as a slave to Christ by carrying the whippings and wounds by the enemies of Christ. (Colossians 1:24). Paul was persecuted by many for teaching the truth in Christ; so if you teach the truth, be ready to be made fun, put down, or ignored, by much of the world.
18Brethren, the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit. Amen. May the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all. Teach the truth, hand till the end, and Christ will always be with you. "Even through the tough times ahead."
Keep The Faith,Barton