The Showy Life?

Many people like to "put on a show". They want to be notice unfortunately that is all there is to their life. But the greater danger is when we are compelling others to but on a show so that "we" look good. Paul is warning the Galatians that there are those who want to get them to do certain things so they can put a "notch" on their "spiritual pistol."

Are we compelled by those around us to act a certain way because we need to look like them or are we compelled by the Spirit of God to be obedient to the Scriptures?

Gal 6:11-18 11 See with what large letters I am writing to you with my own hand. 12 Those who desire to make a good showing in the flesh try to compel you to be circumcised, simply so that they will not be persecuted for the cross of Christ. 13 For those who are circumcised do not even keep the Law themselves, but they desire to have you circumcised so that they may boast in your flesh. 14 But may it never be that I would boast, except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, through which the world has been crucified to me, and I to the world. 15 For neither is circumcision anything, nor uncircumcision, but a new creation. 16 And those who will walk by this rule, peace and mercy be upon them, and upon the Israel of God. 17 From now on let no one cause trouble for me, for I bear on my body the brand-marks of Jesus. 18 The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit, brethren. Amen. NASU

I would like to ask you another question. Do YOU compel those who you come in contact with to act in a certain manor to be able to "hang out" with you. Do you want change in their life because it looks good to those around you or do you want change to come because they are learning the truth of Scripture and the Holy Spirit is convicting them and bringing the challenge of change to them.

Explore for yourself

1. Why does Paul say this was in "his own hand"?
2. How did the "Judahisers" show that they were having good "success"? What danger is there for today?
3. What warning signs are there for us to observe concerning these types of teachers? What do they avoid preaching about?
4. How would a Godly teacher/learner appear or act?
5. What should really matter in pursuit of true Christianity?
6. What rule should we walk by?
7. Why does Paul state that no one should cause "him" trouble?