How does Galatians 1:24 connect with Matthew 5:16 on glorifying God? Seeing Glory Through a Changed Life (Galatians 1:24) “And they glorified God because of me.” — Galatians 1:24 Paul’s testimony shows how a life transformed by the gospel directs attention upward, not toward the person. The churches that once feared him now praised the Lord because of the radical change He had worked in Paul. • Paul’s past—violent persecution—made the turnabout undeniable. • The spotlight shifted from “What a remarkable man” to “What a powerful God!” • Every stage of Paul’s story became a stage for God’s glory. Linking to Jesus’ Call (Matthew 5:16) “In the same way, let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.” — Matthew 5:16 Jesus sets out the same pattern Paul later embodies: • Good deeds and transformed living are intended to be visible. • Visibility alone is not the end; it is a means to spark praise God-ward. • The credit flows to “your Father in heaven,” not to the believer. Paul’s life becomes a real-world illustration of Jesus’ teaching: when onlookers witnessed his changed behavior, they glorified God. How the Two Verses Interlock 1. Source of Light – Matthew: “your light” comes from belonging to Christ. – Galatians: Paul’s light is the gospel that changed him. 2. Observable Evidence – Matthew: “good deeds.” – Galatians: a persecutor turned preacher, planting churches he once tried to destroy. 3. Result – Matthew: “glorify your Father.” – Galatians: “they glorified God because of me.” Additional Scriptures Echoing the Theme • 1 Peter 2:12 — “Conduct yourselves honorably… so that… they may see your good deeds and glorify God…” • 1 Corinthians 10:31 — “…whatever you do, do it all to the glory of God.” • John 15:8 — “By this My Father is glorified, that you bear much fruit…” Each passage reinforces the same chain: visible fruit → observers take note → God receives glory. Practical Ways to Reflect Paul’s Example • Share your testimony openly; your past and present showcase God’s work. • Serve consistently so that others see ongoing evidence, not a one-time event. • Redirect compliments: “Praise God—He’s the One who changed me.” • Cultivate humility; God’s glory shines clearest through surrendered vessels. Key Takeaways • Galatians 1:24 is Paul’s lived-out fulfillment of Matthew 5:16. • A changed life is a powerful apologetic that turns human attention to divine action. • Every believer holds the same assignment: shine so brightly that people can’t help but glorify God for what they see. |
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