Fighting for Gospel Truth and Freedom

The past week we celebrated Memorial Day on which we remember those who fought and sacrificed for our political freedom. The Apostle Paul was a different kind of freedom fighter. He fought for the freedom purchased for us by Christ against legalists who would enslave us again to the law. The issue is, “How can a person be justified before a holy God?” The gospel says that we can be sure that we are saved as we trust solely in Christ's perfect work for us.
The legalist says that we must add our works to the work of Christ. The gospel gives us full assurance of salvation. Legalism keeps us enslaved in uncertainty and fear. Some might have said that Paul was quibbling over theological details and that he should just compromise for the sake of unity.
Paul realized that our freedom in Christ is worth fighting for. He carried his fight to Jerusalem where he enlists the backing of the highly regarded Apostles including Peter, James and John. When they receive Titus, the uncircumcised Gentile, the principle that we are accepted by God based upon faith alone in Christ's work alone is clearly established.

Please read Galatians 1:1-2:10 before coming to church tomorrow.