Galatians 5:11 AMPC

But, brethren, if I still preach circumcision [as some accuse me of doing, as necessary to salvation], why am I still suffering persecution? In that case the cross has ceased to be a stumbling block and is made meaningless (done away).

Galatians 5:11 AMPC

People have falsely accused Paul in many ways, one of which was that Paul taught to observe the law plus Jesus Christ.

They were using Paul's name falsely to say this is what Paul wanted us to follow. This is still happening today, where they take and twist Paul's teaching that is absolutely anchored in Christ alone.

Paul rejected the claim by saying that if I preach law plus grace, then the cross of Christ is of no use.

The work that Paul was referring to in some of his letters is not about working to get the gift, working towards holiness, or working to be accepted but to work out the gift that has been given, to work out the holiness we have received from Christ and to walk as an accepted child of the living God.

Paul never taught us to hold back and observe what the shadow of things was, but to live in the reality of who Christ is and what He has laid as a foundation for all mankind.

Paul is persecuted because he has nullified everything else that others have put their hope and trust in. He points out that only through accepting Christ Jesus as Lord and walking in what He has prepared is true salvation.

The truth is believers who have believed that they have received from Christ will be effective in every area of their lives. They will actively use, participate and exercise those gifts that Christ has given.

Let us be on guard and be steadfast in holding on to what Christ has established. Don't let anyone add anything else except what Christ has given to us.

Live in the blessings,

Ps Ambrose