How does Galatians 5:11 address the issue of persecution for the cross? Setting the Scene: Paul’s Flashpoint in Galatia • Galatians 5:11: “Brothers, if I am still preaching circumcision, why am I still being persecuted? In that case, the offense of the cross has been abolished.” • The letter combats Judaizers who insisted Gentile believers adopt circumcision. • Paul affirms one, unchanging gospel: salvation by grace through faith in Christ alone (Galatians 1:6-9). Why the Cross Provokes Persecution • The cross declares human effort powerless; only Christ’s atoning death saves (Ephesians 2:8-9). • That message offends religious pride and cultural norms: – 1 Corinthians 1:18: “For the message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing…” – 1 Corinthians 1:23: “We preach Christ crucified, a stumbling block to Jews and foolishness to Gentiles.” • By refusing to add circumcision, Paul removes every human boast (Galatians 6:14). The result? Hostility from those invested in the old system. Paul’s Logic: Proof Through Suffering • “If I am still preaching circumcision…”—Paul’s persecution shows he no longer teaches works-based righteousness. • His own scars validate this shift: “I bear on my body the marks of Jesus” (Galatians 6:17). • Acts 14:19-22 records stoning and expulsion; suffering followed him wherever the pure gospel was proclaimed. Linking Past and Present: Expecting Opposition • Jesus warned: “If they persecuted Me, they will persecute you as well” (John 15:20). • 2 Timothy 3:12: “Indeed, all who desire to live godly in Christ Jesus will be persecuted.” • 1 Peter 4:14: “If you are insulted for the name of Christ, you are blessed…” • The pattern holds: hold fast to the cross, and reproach will come—yet so will divine approval. Living It Out Today • Refuse gospel add-ons—rituals, achievements, or cultural acceptability—as conditions of salvation. • Expect misunderstanding when grace confronts human pride; respond with truth spoken in love (Ephesians 4:15). • Draw courage from Paul’s example: persecution is not a sign of failure but evidence the unaltered gospel is at work. |
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