Galations 1: 1-24

Galations is considered by many to be Paul's first letter. Some argue that 1 and 2 Thessalonians are first, however because Paul goes into details regarding his conversion, Galations being first makes more sense to me. What do you think?

Galations 1:1 If there is any doubt as to the importance of Paul's revelation given directly from Christ to him, put it to rest. The secret or mystery hidden from the beginning is the grace now given to the Gentiles who were once excluded from the promises afforded the Jewish nation (see post from Romans 11). Paul reminds us grace is nothing new, Abraham was justified by faith alone 430 years before the giving of the law by Moses (See Genesis 15:6, Romans 4:3), and he received that grace (see Romans 3:3,6). However that grace given to Abraham was not understood at the time, not until Paul brought that revelation to the world. If Abraham was indeed justified then for his faith, it makes me wonder why God gave Moses the Ten Commandments (Law) in the first place, which ultimately failed to bring the Jews into a right relationship with Him. God knew that was going to happen. So why did He do it? I think Romans 3:20 gives us one good reason, "by the law is the knowledge of sin". God simply wanted His people to see that they couldn't be perfect on their own. They desperately needed a relationship with their creator, and this was part of His restoration plan.

Romans 1: 10-24 The turn around in Paul's life is nothing short of a miracle. (For more details see Acts 9:3-16) Paul was blinded, that got his attention. Even today, I don't doubt for a minute that God would use any means necessary to get my attention and obedience, for my ultimate good of course (Romans 1:6). It seems that afflicting our health is one of His primary means of doing that (1 Corinthians 11:30). I don't mean to scare anyone, God doesn't want us to have an unhealthy fear of Him, but He does require a healthy fear and respect regarding His authority. Resist the temptation to see God as we would see our earthly father, which leads to many false analogies. Our dads, even though you might think yours is perfect, are just human.

Grace, MB