What practical steps can we take to uphold the truth of the Gospel? Opening Text “Brothers, if I am still preaching circumcision, why am I still persecuted? In that case the offense of the cross has been abolished.” — Galatians 5:11 Why the Cross Offends—and Why That Matters • Paul’s critics wanted him to blend works of the law with faith in Christ. • He refuses, knowing the Gospel alone saves (Galatians 2:16). • The “offense” of the cross is its blunt declaration that no human effort can add to Christ’s finished work (1 Corinthians 1:18). • When we keep this message pure, we will meet resistance, yet we safeguard true freedom (Galatians 5:1). Practical Steps to Uphold the Truth of the Gospel 1. Stand Firm on Grace, Not Performance • Refuse every message that adds human merit to salvation (Galatians 1:6–9). • Regularly rehearse Ephesians 2:8–9—salvation is “by grace…through faith…not by works.” 2. Speak the Whole Truth, Even When Unpopular • Share the cross plainly; do not soften sin, judgment, or repentance (Luke 24:46–47). • Combine conviction with compassion (Ephesians 4:15). 3. Guard Your Teaching Sources • Measure every book, podcast, and sermon against Scripture (Acts 17:11). • Reject “clever myths” and hold to the written Word (2 Peter 1:16–19). 4. Cultivate Personal Holiness • Gospel credibility rises or falls with our character (Philippians 1:27). • Walk by the Spirit to display love, joy, peace, and the rest of the fruit (Galatians 5:22–24). 5. Equip Yourself with Sound Doctrine • Systematically read and memorize Scripture; it equips “for every good work” (2 Timothy 3:16–17). • Study core doctrines—deity of Christ, substitutionary atonement, resurrection—to answer questions accurately (1 Peter 3:15). 6. Support Gospel‐Driven Ministry • Invest time, prayer, and resources in missionaries and churches that proclaim salvation by faith alone (Philippians 4:15–17). • Distance yourself from ministries that dilute or distort the message, no matter how attractive their methods. 7. Preserve Unity Around Essentials • Major on the Gospel, minor on disputable matters (Romans 14:1–4). • Refuse divisiveness that distracts from Christ crucified (Titus 3:9–11). Daily Habits That Keep the Cross Central • Begin each day thanking Christ for His finished work. • End each day asking, “Did my words and actions point to His sufficiency?” • Share one Gospel truth with someone—family, friend, coworker—before you sleep. Encouragement for the Journey Holding the line on pure grace may bring misunderstanding or hostility, yet Galatians 5:11 reminds us that opposition can actually confirm we are preaching the same offensive, life‐giving cross Paul proclaimed. Stay the course; the truth of the Gospel is worth every cost. |
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