This post is Day 10 in a series of studies about “Followers of Jesus”. I strongly suggest you begin with the introduction to this study, please click here to read it.

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Followers of Jesus – Day 10

If we consider ourselves children of Father God, we must follow His instructions. We must be familiar with His word so that we will recognise if we are being led astray by leaders and teachers who may be well meaning, but do not fully understand the ways of The Lord.

Galatians 5:1

It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery.

The Thought

Much of Paul’s writings are encouraging his churches to grow in the knowledge of love of Jesus our Saviour. But in between those verses we get the occasional discipline. As I imagine Paul writing this, I hear his tone of voice! It suggests that he is frustrated with the Galatians, because they are obeying rules that don’t come from Jesus. And that Paul has not taught them. Earlier in this letter we read “You foolish Galatians who has bewitched you?” (Galatians 3:1) Later on we get confirmation of his worries: “I fear for you, that somehow I have wasted my efforts on you.” (Galatians 4:11)

If we consider ourselves children of Father God, we must follow His instructions. We must be familiar with His word so that we will recognise if we are being led astray by leaders and teachers who may be well meaning, but don’t fully understand the ways of The Lord.

Remember that Jesus rebuked Peter because his own emotions ran away with him. Peter didn’t want Jesus to suffer in any way, and couldn’t believe He would, so spoke from his own heart which was not in line with that of Jesus. When the disciple said “Never Lord! This shall never happen to you!” Jesus’s response must have hurt, but it was a good lesson for Peter. “Get behind Me satan. You are a stumbling block to Me!” (Matthew 16:22-23)

Action

Read more of Galatians 5, or the whole book if you have time. If possible read it aloud and feel the emotions in Paul’s message.

Take note of any criticism that might challenge you. Ask God to help you put that right.