Scripture: Job 30; Ps. 120; Gal. 3-4
Galatians 3:1
You crazy Galatians! Did someone put a hex on you? Have you taken leave of your senses? Something crazy has happened, for it’s obvious that you no longer have the crucified Jesus in clear focus in your lives. His sacrifice on the cross was certainly set before you clearly enough.
Observations: I’d really like to use this passage to talk about how the Church has fallen to legalism and traditionalism. But that isn’t what SOAP is about. I should talk instead about the trend in my life to operate out of obligation and ordinance rather than grace and sacrament. Keeping the “crucified Jesus in clear focus” in my own life will result in the proper motivation for living the Kingdom Life.
Application: Remember that Christ died for your sins while we were yet sinners, proving God’s love for us. Because we are forgiven, so then should we forgive–even while our neighbors sin against us. Justice carried out while forgiveness reigns is the only true justice.
Prayer: Remind me of the difference between justice and retribution, Lord. And thank you for abandoning vengeance for the sake of your Son. Amen.
Update: United Methodists have been “Foolish Galatians.”
In 1939, Methodists made a conscious decision to downplay our theology. In the 60’s, that downplay became the popular interpretation, “Join the Methodists, they believe in anything.” We became a haven for folks who weren’t sure what they believed or were more comfortable not searching.
Its time for us to regain our Wesleyan heritage.