Sabbath, May 21, 2005
Galatians 5:11-15
But if I, brothers, still preach circumcision, why am I still being persecuted? In that case the offense of the cross has been removed. I wish those who unsettle you would emasculate themselves!
For you were called to freedom, brothers. Only do not use your freedom as an opportunity for the flesh, but through love serve one another. For the whole law is fulfilled in one word: “You shall love your neighbor as yourself.” But if you bite and devour one another, watch out that you are not consumed by one another. (ESV)
by Nick Kersten
Paul concluded this portion of his letter by reminding us of one of the pitfalls of freedom: abuse of freedom out of selfishness. The solution he offered for this danger is to follow Jesus in his example and in his command by loving our neighbors as we love ourselves.
In our churches, we must remember this command. It is especially important in instances where gossip or slander is prevalent, but it is important in all our churches, regardless.
Copyright Information
Daily Bible Meditations are taken from The Helping Hand,a Sabbath School student quarterly for youth and adults. Copyright © 2008, Seventh Day Baptist Board of Christian Education, Inc.
Scripture quotations marked "ESV" are taken from The Holy Bible, English Standard Version. Copyright ©2001 by Crossway Bibles, a division of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved. Text provided by the Crossway Bibles Web Service .
