What does Galatians 1:24 teach about the impact of personal transformation? Scripture Snapshot “ And they glorified God because of me.” (Galatians 1:24) Transformation on Display Paul was once a fierce persecutor (Acts 9:1–2). Christ met him, changed him, and sent him to preach. When believers heard the report, they didn’t marvel at Paul’s willpower; they marveled at God’s power. His conversion preached long before his sermons ever did. Results: How a Changed Life Magnifies God • God, not the converted person, becomes the centerpiece of praise. • Observers are drawn to worship (“they glorified God”). • The authenticity of the gospel is confirmed—only divine grace explains such a turnaround. • Fear and suspicion in the church are replaced with confidence in God’s sovereign work (Acts 9:26–28). Connecting Threads in Scripture • Matthew 5:16 — “Let your light shine… that they may see your good works and glorify your Father.” • 2 Corinthians 5:17 — “If anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation.” • Acts 9:21 — Crowds were “astonished” at the former persecutor now preaching Christ. • 1 Timothy 1:16 — Paul’s life is a “pattern” displaying Christ’s perfect patience. • 1 Peter 2:12 — Honorable conduct leads others to “glorify God on the day He visits.” • John 15:8 — Fruitful lives “glorify My Father.” Principles for Today • Personal transformation is a public testimony; people notice. • Genuine change redirects credit from self-effort to God’s saving grace. • God often uses a single transformed life to strengthen many wavering believers. • The most convincing apologetic for the gospel is a once-hopeless sinner made new. Living It Out • Share your story; God intends it to turn heads upward toward Him. • Walk consistently; continued obedience keeps the spotlight on God, not on past failures. • Celebrate others’ conversions; every rescued life is another reason for worship. |
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