by Pastor Roy Callahan
London Hill Baptist Church, Fredericktown, MO
Paul tells the Galatians in verse 1, “Stand fast therefore in the liberty wherewith Christ hath made us free, and be not entangled again with the yoke of bondage.” What a wonderful message.
Paul is reminding them of a very important part of a Christian’s life, and that is FREEDOM. We also, need to be reminded of our freedom in Christ. Satan is in the world today, just like he was during Paul’s day. Young and old men need to take notice of what Paul was reminding the Galatians. He knew personally about the freedom that Christ brings to our lives. He had experienced the saving power of Christ, and the peace that Christ brought to his life. He told them that Christ gave himself for our sins, and that he will deliver us from this present evil world, according to the will of God and our Father. (Gal. 1:4).
Christ said in John 14:27,”Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you; not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.”
Paul wants them to remember. There are times when we need to remember where we have come from, in order to appreciate what we have. Paul wants them to understand that God does not concern himself with the earthly divisions of race or status. He is concerned with your soul. Paul tells them that all the works that they may do, will never be enough to meet God’s standard of righteousness. It is by faith in Christ that allows us to meet God’s standard. Paul tells the Ephesians, “For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast.” (Eph. 2:8-9).
We need to tell our young men of this great freedom that was brought to us through Christ Jesus. Anyone can come to know Christ. It doesn’t matter where you come from, or your position in life. The World, thru Satan, tries its best to hold us back from this simple, easy, truth Christ died for all!
Finally, Paul wants them to stand fast in commitment to Christ. Many times in our lives we can get discouraged, but we can be lifted up by the confidence that others place in us.
The church at Galatia was having a rough time, and Paul wanted to encourage them. He knew that it only takes a very small problem for people to lose commitment. Paul was convinced that by pointing this out, and with prayer, the church would get back on track.
So, what does all of this have to do with the Brotherhood? We must be like Paul, and remind each other to stand for Christ. Through Him we are saved, and secure, and have peace that the world cannot give. We have a great message that needs to go to everybody, not just those we think are good. Christ can change the hardest heart.
Our young men need to know that they are not alone, and that we, like Paul, are here to help them.
