Deep Concern

Sermon Introduction

Paul expressed his deep concern for the Galatians. He explained the truth that those who have faith in Christ become adopted children, liberated, no longer enslaved by the law and the elementary principles of the world. He wondered why the Galatians were turning back. Do they desire slavery again? The Spirit comes to all who believe in Christ and leads them to call God Abba, Father! God gave His Spirit not by the works of the law but by faith in Christ. Therefore, why turn back to the law which enslaved? Why turn back to a former Gentile life, which also enslaved?

Dr. Ed Pilapil Jr.
Senior Pastor

Galatians 4:8-12 ESV

8 Formerly, when you did not know God, you were enslaved to those that by nature are not gods. 9 But now that you have come to know God, or rather to be known by God, how can you turn back again to the weak and worthless elementary principles of the world, whose slaves you want to be once more? 10 You observe days and months and seasons and years! 11 I am afraid I may have labored over you in vain.

12 Brothers, I entreat you, become as I am, for I also have become as you are. You did me no wrong.

Notes

Paul expressed his deep concern for the Galatians. He explained the truth that those who have faith in Christ become adopted children, liberated, no longer enslaved by the law and the elementary principles of the world. He wondered why the Galatians were turning back. Do they desire slavery again? The Spirit comes to all who believe in Christ and leads them to call God Abba, Father! God gave His Spirit not by the works of the law but by faith in Christ. Therefore, why turn back to the law which enslaved? Why turn back to a former Gentile life, which also enslaved?

1. Enslaved
   Paul explained that the Galatians were enslaved by their old way of thinking, which involved false gods (4:8). It was not only the Mosaic Law that enslaved but also the elements of the world like gods that Gentiles worshiped.
   8 Formerly, when you did not know God, you were enslaved to those that by nature are not gods.
   

2. Why turn back?
   Paul asked a rhetorical question, how can they turn back to the enslaving principles of the world. Do they want to be enslaved again after they have been known by God (4:9)?
   9 But now that you have come to know God, or rather to be known by God, how can you turn back again to the weak and worthless elementary principles of the world, whose slaves you want to be once more?
   

3. Follow Me
   Paul cited practices related to special days and seasons, which were not necessary for salvation. Both Jews and Gentiles practiced the observance of special holy days. Paul would have none of it (4:10-12).
   10 You observe days and months and seasons and years! 11 I am afraid I may have labored over you in vain. 12 Brothers, I entreat you, become as I am, for I also have become as you are.

Application

1. Deep concern for personal beliefs
   Are you concerned with what you believe? Do you pay attention to the details, especially about the gospel? If you are not concerned, then you are reckless or naïve. Paul was deeply concerned. What about us?

2. Deep concern for the people
   Paul wrote his letter with deep concern about what the Galatians believed. Are we concerned about family members, churchmates, growth groups, and friends? We should be. Thus, we should explain the gospel with clarity.

3. Persuade others to follow
   Paul entreated the Galatians to follow his example. Although Paul was a Jew, he lived free of the law because of his faith in Christ. Let us persuade others to believe in the gospel, justification by faith alone.

Reflection & Discussion

1. What is Paul’s concern for the Galatians?

2. What does Paul mean about “become as I am?”

3. How may we apply it in our life and ministry?