Be Careful
Comments on Galatians with an ear to Luther’s commentary
Scripture Text: Galatians 3:10 and Matthew 6:1–4
Series: Comments on Galatians
If you are planning on God exclaiming after you die something like, “My, what a good person she was,” stand by. “She did not take my name in vain or even cuss. On top of that, she would do anything for her momma.” God is not impressed; he will not be saying any such thing.
“But she went down the aisle to give herself to God!” someone might insist. “And after that, she read her Bible all the time. I bet she knew more Bible stuff than you, preacher.”
God is not favorable toward smart people — even Bible smart folks — or religious or moral people. God is looking for people who have faith. He is far more inclined to the fellow who cusses from time to time, then asks forgiveness of the Father. He loves those who read the Scriptures, not for knowledge but because they remind them of God’s promises to sinners. He is favorable to those who come to church to worship instead of keep rules, those cannot help but be there, not for religious virtue but because, where else would they be? (Luke 2:49).
Moral, religious, and enlightened people have their own recompense but may never enjoy a heavenly reward. We must keep the commandments because we love God, not because they are requirements. Those who keep the rules for the sake of being good and admirable are accursed. Be careful that your righteousness springs from faith instead of from morality or religion or learning.
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Author
Rev. Dr. Mark E. Ryman has served as Pastor for St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Salisbury, NC, since 2021. Previously, Pastor Ryman served congregations in North Carolina and Ohio, as well as a call to specialized ministry with Sola Publishing.
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