PAUL'S FINAL ADVICE! Galatians 6:11-13

Good morning everyone! God is good all the time, all the time God is good. TOO BLESSED TO BE STRESSED!

Have you ever, or have you ever met someone who would pick and choose from the Bible its meaning to use at your or his/her advantage? People have practiced this throughout the centuries.

When Jesus came, He fulfilled the law and salvation comes through Jesus Christ! Well, in Galatians 6 verse 11 Paul wrote in all caps: "NOTICE WHAT LARGE LETTERS I USE AS I WRITE THESE CLOSING WORDS IN MY OWN HANDWRITING." Paul wanted the people to know this was truly him speaking to them. You might say it is the same as when we raise our voice slightly to emphasize something.

Galatians 6 verse 12 & 13 "Those who are trying to force you to be circumcised want to look good to others. They don't want to be persecuted for teaching that the cross of Christ alone can save. (13) And even those who advocate circumcision don't keep the whole law themselves. They only want you to be circumcised so they can boast about it and claim you as their disciples."

Okay, verse 12, as I digress as few years. To be circumcised to look good to others - back in the 70's I remember two main pushes as a young Christian in Colorado. Non-denominational churches and speaking in tongues. It was "cool" to belong to a non-denominational or Bible church and lessons were actually given to speak in tongues so you can be closer and speak directly to God; a pipeline to heaven or direct line to God.

That moves me to verse 13, ones who advocate circumcision did not keep the whole law themselves. Some of the Judaziers were emphasizing circumcision as proof of holiness, i.e. speaking in tongues as holiness. But, they were ignoring the other Jewish laws. People choose a certain principle or prohibition and make it the measure of faith. Some may condemn drunkenness but ignore gluttony. Some may condemn promiscuity but tolerate prejudice, some against homosexuality and ignore child abuse.

We cannot pick and choose the mandates we will follow. Well, what about speaking in tongues and non-denominational churches? I will give you a solid answer about these - hit your knees, humbly go into the presence of God and get your answer. The Bible in its entirety is our rule of faith and practice.

Once again, each time your cell phone rings, speak to God. At lunch read a Bible verse. God is like AT&T - he will be in touch so you be in touch. Love you all.

In Christ's Love and Grace
Johnny