Galatians 1:10

Commentary on Galatians 1:10 (NKJV)

Galatians 1:10 (NKJV)

“For do I now persuade men, or God? Or do I seek to please men? For if I still pleased men, I would not be a bondservant of Christ.”

Introduction

Galatians 1:10 is a profound statement by the Apostle Paul in his letter to the Galatians. It serves as a declaration of his commitment to the gospel of Christ, contrasting the motives of pleasing people with the dedication to serving God. This verse highlights the tension between human approval and divine allegiance, a theme that resonates deeply within Christianity.

Contextual Overview

The Apostle Paul wrote the Epistle to the Galatians to address the issue of Judaizers who were advocating for the necessity of following Jewish customs, particularly circumcision, for Gentile converts. Paul’s central message is the defence of the gospel of grace through faith in Jesus Christ alone. Chapter 1 emphasises the divine origin of Paul’s apostleship and message, distinguishing it from human traditions and approvals.

A Judaizer, in the context of early Christianity, refers to a group of individuals who believed that Gentile converts to Christianity should adopt Jewish customs and laws, including practices such as circumcision, dietary restrictions, and the observance of Jewish festivals. This term is prominently discussed in the New Testament, particularly in the Epistle to the Galatians, where the Apostle Paul addresses the controversy over whether adherence to Jewish law is necessary for salvation in Christ.

In Galatians, Paul vehemently opposes the Judaizers’ teachings, arguing that faith in Jesus Christ is sufficient for salvation and that adding requirements of the Jewish law undermines the grace of the gospel. He emphasises that believers are justified by faith and not by the works of the law, advocating for the freedom that comes from living under the new covenant established by Christ. The Judaizer controversy illuminates the early church’s struggle to define the relationship between the old Jewish tradition and the new Christian faith.

Exegesis of Galatians 1:10

Paul’s rhetorical questions in Galatians 1:10 underscore his unwavering devotion to God over man. The phrase “persuade men, or God” reflects the dichotomy between seeking human validation and divine approval. Paul asserts that his mission is not to conform to human expectations but to remain faithful to God’s calling.

The term “please men” is contrasted with being a “bondservant of Christ.” The concept of a bondservant (or doulos in Greek) signifies total submission and allegiance to Christ. This mirrors the emphasis on the sovereignty of God and the believer’s complete dependence on Him.

Theological Implications

Divine Authority Over Human Approval:

This verse reinforces the principle that divine authority surpasses human approval. This aligns with the doctrine of Sola Scriptura (Scripture alone) where God’s word is the ultimate authority.

Faithfulness to the Gospel:

Paul’s declaration sets a standard for unwavering commitment to the gospel message. This echoes the emphasis on the purity of the gospel and the need to guard against any addition of works or human traditions.

Christian Identity:

Being a bondservant of Christ implies a transformed identity rooted in servitude to God rather than conformity to societal norms. This transformation is central and about regeneration and sanctification.

Application to Modern Christian Living

In contemporary Christian life, Galatians 1:10 challenges believers to evaluate their motivations. Are they living to please people or to honour God? This passage calls Christians to prioritise their relationship with God over societal approval, even if it leads to opposition or misunderstanding.

This means upholding biblical truth in the face of cultural pressures and maintaining integrity in one’s faith. It encourages believers to find their identity and worth in Christ, rather than in the fluctuating standards of society.

This approach to Galatians 1:10 seeks to bridge the historical context of Paul’s writings with doctrinal teachings, offering insights for practical application in the lives of modern believers.