Paul finished this epistle right where he began. He covered the whole argument of this epistle in one sweeping statement: 'It is the cross and the cross alone that counts.' To him the cross was central and gloriously sufficient for time and eternity. Those opposing him, those who had disrupted the church in Galatia, were trying to make circumcision and the Old Testament law of central importance. Paul said these are only outward signs. The Cross (the Gospel) deals with the heart. Too many people today put great emphasis on outward evidences, such as infant baptism or even church attendance. We ought to attend our local church, but only because we have first accepted Christ. Church attendance is no guarantee of salvation. The Cross says man is a sinner and cannot save himself. Men don't like that. That touches his pride. But if he does accept it, the world turns its back on him - all because of the cross. Paul knew that in sad experience. The world did more than turn its back - it hated Paul and persecuted him. But to him the cross and Christ meant much more. In fact the cross and Christ meant everything. He was able to say 'To me to live is Christ.' Can we say that today? The Old Rugged Cross On a hill far away stood an old rugged cross, The emblem of suffering and shame, And I love that old cross where the dearest and best For a world of lost sinners was slain. So I'll cherish the old rugged cross, Till my trophies at last I lay down; I will cling to the old rugged cross, And exchange it some day for a crown. |
沒有留言:
張貼留言