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Scripture Reading: Galatians 1:7

My friends, I come to you this week with a compelling spirit to warn you of “some that trouble you and would pervert the gospel of Christ.” If we study the word trouble from the Greek definition, we find that it means there are some who stir or agitate trouble. The Greek definition of “perverting the gospel” means to twist, to turn quietly around in an inconspicuous way, to be about self while professing the gospel.”

In verse 6 of Galatians 1, Paul makes the statement, “I marvel that ye are so soon removed from him that called you into the grace of God unto another gospel.” Paul is talking to a body of believers who should be strong enough in their faith and stable in the truths of God’s Word that they should be able to recognize false teachers who profess godliness but have no power. Paul said, “I marvel that ye are so soon removed…” This marvel is an exhortation of disappointment in the people of Galatia. Marvel here means he wonders about them and their stability in truth over deception.

The church of Galatia was being deceived by people who attended the local assembly with them. They were people who acted, walked, talked and resembled a born again Christian. However, because of his gift of discernment, Paul spotted these deceivers, so much so that he was surprised that the people of Galatia could be so easily influenced by such people.

Paul’s next instruction to us concerning such deception is found in verse 8b which says, “… let them be accursed.” The word accursed means to ban or to be excommunicated. It also means a religious group. Righteousness is of God, religion is of man. Knowing the difference is vital to your walk with God. Allow God to show you the difference so that you will not be troubled or perverted.

David proclaims this same warning from Psalm 55. In verses 12-14 he tells us “For it was not an enemy that reproached me; then I could have borne it: neither was it he that hated me that did magnify himself against me; then I would have hid myself from him:   But it was thou, a man mine equal, my guide, and mine acquaintance.   We took sweet counsel together, and walked unto the house of God in company.”

Notice the difference in David and Paul’s response. Paul said let them be accursed. David’s response toward such people is found in Psalm 55:15, which says, “Let death seize upon them, and let them go down quick into hell: for wickedness is in their dwellings, and among them.” This is a strong statement! In the Old Testament no grace was found but in the New Testament with Paul, both mercy and grace is extended. David went for death; Paul said let them be accursed. There is a big difference in death and excommunication. Thank God for grace.

Last evening I posted on my facebook status that we Christians who are rooted, stedfast and always abounding in the work of the Lord must stand on our convictions, or we will be led by deceptive people.

My precious friends and laborers in the Gospel, from my heart to yours I pray that your eyes will be opened and your hearts will be determined to stand on your convictions and excommunicate yourself from those who would trouble you and pervert the truth of God’s Word.

There are many around us who use the Gospel for their own gain rather than for the glory of God. You do not have to join them. Remember, God is still on the throne. Jesus is still interceding on your behalf. I refuse to be troubled and perverted and I am determined to stand on my convictions. Won’t you join me? You will find a greater peace if you accept my invitation.

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• Tags: convictions, deception, warning

• Posted by: Dr. Brenda Robinson