What is the meaning of Galatians 1:12? I did not receive it from any man “I did not receive it from any man” (Galatians 1:12a) • Paul’s gospel has no human source, underscoring its divine purity (Galatians 1:11). • Like Jeremiah’s call (Jeremiah 1:5) and the prophets’ messages (2 Peter 1:21), Paul’s commission bypasses human mediation. • 1 Thessalonians 2:13 reminds believers that God’s word, not human opinion, works effectively in those who believe. • This claim protects the church from adapting the gospel to popular trends (cf. Jude 3). Nor was I taught it “nor was I taught it” (Galatians 1:12b) • Paul sat at Gamaliel’s feet for the Law (Acts 22:3), yet the gospel came differently. • The line echoes 1 John 2:27: “The anointing you received from Him remains in you, and you have no need for anyone to teach you.” • It highlights the insufficiency of mere academic instruction to impart saving truth (John 3:3; 1 Corinthians 2:13). • This guards against elevating tradition over revelation (Mark 7:8). Rather, I received it “rather, I received it” (Galatians 1:12c) • The gospel is a gift, not an achievement (Ephesians 2:8-9). • Paul mirrors the language of 1 Corinthians 15:3, “For I delivered to you as of first importance what I also received.” • Receiving implies humility and dependence—core attitudes for every disciple (Matthew 18:3). • Because Paul received, he can confidently pass it on without alteration (2 Timothy 2:2). By revelation from Jesus Christ “by revelation from Jesus Christ” (Galatians 1:12d) • The Damascus Road encounter (Acts 9:3-6) is the foundational revelation of Christ to Paul. • Acts 26:16 records Jesus saying, “I have appeared to you to appoint you as a servant and witness,” confirming divine commissioning. • Ephesians 3:3 notes, “that by revelation the mystery was made known to me,” tying Paul’s ministry directly to Christ’s disclosure. • This revelation is final and authoritative, matching Scripture’s claim that “All Scripture is God-breathed” (2 Timothy 3:16). • Because Christ Himself revealed the gospel, it remains unchangeable, binding every generation (Revelation 22:18-19). summary Paul insists that the gospel he preaches is entirely divine: not sourced from people, not a product of classroom instruction, but a gracious revelation straight from the risen Jesus. This guarantees its purity, authority, and permanence. Believers today stand on the same unaltered truth, confidently proclaiming a message that is God-given, Spirit-empowered, and eternally reliable. |
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