Passions

Those people are trying hard to win you over. But it is not for your good. They want to take you away from us. They want you to commit yourselves to them. 18 It is fine to be committed to something, if the purpose is good. And you shouldn’t be committed only when I am with you. You should always be committed. (Galatians 4:17-18)

Paul is confused as to what has happened to the people he once taught in Galatia. They supported him and followed his teachings, but now they are being pulled by others who teach a different Gospel. Paul is fearful that those who once followed him (and Christ) are now being lured to follow others. How often are we tempted to fall away from the teachings of Scripture? Are we tempted to leave sound teaching when it becomes too challenging? Do we like to be entertained . . . made to feel good . . . patted on the back all the time? Many times, the words of Scripture cut deeply. They are meant to shape us and discipline us. It is not always fun! Yet the true follower of Christ while not enjoying it, comes to cherish the times of discipline. Like an athlete in training, the benefits often come much later.

Anyone who loves to be trained loves knowledge. Anyone who hates to be corrected is stupid. (Proverbs 12:1)

Paul is concerned that those who once were passionate for the Gospel and to follow after Jesus were now chasing after other teachings. What about us?

What are you passionate about?

Is it a Godly passion?

Are you acting on your passion?