Author: lelak630

An Overview of Ephesians

By Joe Guagliardo

Ephesians 3:1-13

“We are all recipients of God’s Grace.”

August 10, 2023

When I was younger, I loved to read mystery novels. One of my favorite mystery characters is from the short stories and novels Sir Arthur Conan Doyle wrote. Of course, I’m speaking of course, of Sherlock Holmes.

I have many books with the original artwork and stories of Holmes. I’ve read more current books written by other authors with stories about Holmes. Many of those stories are written under the pretext that they are long-lost writings of Dr. Watson. Watson was Sherlock Holmes, sidekick, and chronicler.

Like many of you, I have watched numerous movies about Holmes’ cases. Some from the 1940s, and others more current, starring Robert Downey Junior as the reclusive detective. (I’m not a big fan of the 1940’s movies as they treat Dr. Watson as a bit of a buffoon.)

I have always found these mysteries of Holmes’ exploits exciting, intriguing, and effusive with logic.

In today’s Bible verses, Paul mentions the words, Mystery, four times. Let’s read the text and look at what he alludes to as Mystery.

“For this reason, I, Paul, the prisoner of Christ Jesus for the sake of you Gentiles—

Surely you have heard about the administration of God’s Grace that was given to me for you, that is, the Mystery made known to me by revelation, as I have already written briefly. In reading this, then, you will be able to understand my insight into the Mystery of Christ, which was not made known to people in other generations, as it has now been revealed by the Spirit to God’s holy apostles and prophets. This Mystery is that through the gospel, the Gentiles are heirs together with Israel, members together of one body, and sharers together in the promise in Christ Jesus.

I became a servant of this gospel by the gift of God’s Grace given me through the working of his power. Although I am less than the least of all the Lord’s people, this Grace was given me: to preach to the Gentiles the boundless riches of Christ and to make plain to everyone the administration of this Mystery, which for ages past was kept hidden in God, who created all things. His intent was that now, through the church, the manifold wisdom of God should be made known to the rulers and authorities in the heavenly realms, according to his eternal purpose that he accomplished in Christ Jesus our Lord. In him and through faith in him, we may approach God with freedom and confidence. I ask you, therefore, not to be discouraged because of my sufferings for you, which are your glory.”

Ephesians 3:1-13

It’s interesting to note that the word “mystery” is used 20 times in the New Testament. Paul uses the word 4 times in these thirteen verses.

“Surely you have heard about the administration of God’s grace that was given to me for you, that is, the mystery made known to me by revelation, as I have already written briefly.”

Paul preached God’s Grace to the Gentiles. That was the job God gave to him to do. It was not by Paul’s choice that he revealed the Mystery of God’s Grace. It was, as Paul says, “Given to me for you.” We’ve already read that Jesus revealed himself to Paul in the book of Acts. He, Paul, is following the instruction of God to proclaim God’s Grace to the Gentiles.

“In reading this, then, you will be able to understand my insight into the mystery of Christ, which was not made known to people in other generations as it has now been revealed by the Spirit to God’s holy apostles and prophets.”

Immediately after, Paul speaks of the Mystery made known to him again. Paul explains that the Mystery of Christ was kept from the people until it was revealed by God’s Holy Spirit.

“This mystery is that through the gospel, the Gentiles are heirs together with Israel, members together of one body, and sharers together in the promise in Christ Jesus.”

Finally, after dancing around the facts a bit to get his point across, Paul tells the Ephesians, what the Mystery is. As I mentioned in my previous devotion, the Gentiles and Israel (Jews) are both saved through Jesus’ sacrifice on the cross.

“Although I am less than the least of all the Lord’s people, this grace was given me: to preach to the Gentiles the boundless riches of Christ, and to make plain to everyone the administration of this mystery, which for ages past was kept hidden in God, who created all things.”

Finally, one last time, Paul refers to the Mystery that Jesus accomplished for all of mankind.

God revealed this Mystery to Paul, so he could travel throughout the world and explain to the Gentiles (This includes you and me) that God had sent His Son, Jesus, as a living sacrifice to save everyone. Yes, for both the Gentile and Jew, the door to eternal life was now open.

God’s Grace is given to us freely. Our faith in Jesus Christ, our Lord, and Savior, allows us to be free of our sins. His great love, through the Father, has set us free. Paul logically lays this out, so we may understand and believe.

An Overview of Ephesians

By Joe Guagliardo

Ephesians 2:11-22

“There is Love”

August 5, 2023

We’ve all heard “The Wedding Song” at some point in our lives. You’ve either been to a wedding, and it’s been played, or, like me, a person who was a teenager in the 1960s, you heard it on the radio.

The song goes like this:

“He is now to be among you
At the calling of your hearts.
Rest assured, this troubadour is acting on His part.
The union of your spirits here has caused Him to remain
For whenever two or more of you are gathered in His name
There is love
There is love
Well, a man shall leave his mother
And a woman leave her home
They shall travel on to where the two shall be as one.
As it was in the beginning, is now until the end.
Woman draws her life from man and gives it back again.
(And) There is love
There is love
Well then, what’s to be the reason for becoming man and wife
Is it love that brings you here, or love that brings you life.
For if loving is the answer, then who’s the giving for.
Do you believe in something that you’ve never seen before
There is love
(Oh) There’s love
(Hum)
(Oh) The marriage of your spirits here has caused him to remain
For whenever two or more of you are gathered in his name
There is love
(Ah) There’s love.”

What many people don’t know is the story behind the song.

“This hymn for weddings was written by American singer-songwriter Noel Paul Stookey (b 1937) – who is better known as Paul from 60’s folk-trio Peter, Paul, and Mary. The song was written as a gift for the wedding of fellow band member Peter Yarrow, which took place in a Roman Catholic Church in Minnesota, USA in 1969.”

(https://www.godsongs.net/2019/08/the-wedding-song-there-is-love-together-as-one.html)

Another name for the song is actually contained in the last line of the lyrics:

“There is love.”

I find it interesting that the writer (Paul Stuckey) talks about a man and a woman coming together in marriage in the song. In the first verse and chorus, he says:

“For whenever two or more of you are gathered in His name
There is love.”

As a man who has been married for over 49 years, I find this statement to be true. But, the song also reminded me of the verses from today’s Ephesian devotion. Especially:

“For he himself is our peace, who has made the two groups one.”

God brings together a man and woman in marriage.

He also brought together two groups of believers: the Jews and Gentiles.

As Paul says:

“But now in Christ Jesus, you who once were far away have been brought near by the blood of Christ.”

Let’s take a few moments and look at today’s verses from Ephesians.

“Therefore, remember that formerly you who are Gentiles by birth and called “uncircumcised” by those who call themselves “the circumcision” (which is done in the body by human hands)— remember that at that time you were separate from Christ, excluded from citizenship in Israel and foreigners to the covenants of the promise, without hope and without God in the world. But now in Christ Jesus, you who once were far away have been brought near by the blood of Christ.

For he himself is our peace, who has made the two groups one and has destroyed the barrier, the dividing wall of hostility, by setting aside in his flesh the law with its commands and regulations. His purpose was to create in himself one new humanity out of the two, thus making peace, and in one body to reconcile both of them to God through the cross, by which he put to death their hostility. He came and preached peace to you who were far away and peace to those who were near. For through him, we both have access to the Father by one Spirit.

Consequently, you are no longer foreigners and strangers but fellow citizens with God’s people and also members of his household, built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, with Christ Jesus himself as the chief cornerstone. In him, the whole building is joined together and rises to become a holy temple in the Lord. And in him, you too are being built together to become a dwelling in which God lives by his Spirit.’

Ephesians 2:11-22

These passages are about the Gentiles who were lost because they were part of the uncircumcised. They were not Jews. But the coming of Jesus, His death for our sins and resurrection, changed everything.

Through His sacrifice, the two groups, Gentiles and Jews, were brought together as one. Circumcision was a law that no longer needed to be adhered to. Now, because of God’s Grace (His undeserved love) and our faith in what Jesus did for us by dying on the cross, Gentiles and Jews were joined as one.

“He came and preached peace to you who were far away and peace to those who were near. For through him, we both have access to the Father by one Spirit.”

Jesus came and preached to both the Gentiles and the Jews. Jesus is the connection the world had been anticipating.

“He came and preached peace to you who were far away and peace to those who were near. For through him, we both have access to the Father by one Spirit.”

Because of His (Jesus’) sacrifice, Gentiles, like the Jews, had access to God the Father through His Holy Spirit.

Paul reiterates himself in several different ways. For him, this is a critical point to understand. The Gentiles, as well as the Jews, are now saved through Jesus Christ.

Paul says that like a cornerstone that supports a building. Christ is our cornerstone.

“In him, the whole building is joined together and rises to become a holy temple in the Lord. And in him, you too are being built together to become a dwelling in which God lives by his Spirit.’

God sent His Son Jesus to be a living sacrifice. That sacrifice joined all people together. God lives within us through our faith in Jesus through His Holy Spirit.

Now we are not only members of the same kingdom (both Jew and Gentile alike) but also members of the same family. God’s family.

Yes! There is love.

An Overview of Ephesians

By Joe Guagliardo

Ephesians 2:1-10

“We are saved by Grace through faith.”

August 3, 2023

Most of us have a dislike for people who brag. Here’s how the Oxford Dictionary defines the word:

To say something in a boastful manner.

“they were bragging about how easy it had been”

(https://languages.oup.com/google-dictionary-en/)

It’s interesting that the definition of brag uses the word boastful as an example of bragging. You’ll notice in the bible verse above, Ephesians 2:8-9, Paul uses the word boast.

“So that no one can boast.”

Paul tells us distinctly that boasting is wrong, yet people do it all the time. Perhaps that’s why Paul says so firmly that we are saved by the Grace of God through Jesus Christ. You and I have nothing to boast about because saving has nothing to do with anything we did or will do.

Let’s take a look at the entire passage in context to get a better understanding of God’s Grace.

“As for you, you were dead in your transgressions and sins, in which you used to live when you followed the ways of this world and of the ruler of the kingdom of the air, the Spirit who is now at work in those who are disobedient. All of us also lived among them at one time, gratifying the cravings of our flesh (2:3 In contexts like this, the Greek word for flesh (sarx) refers to the sinful state of human beings, often presented as a power in opposition to the Spirit.) and following its desires and thoughts. Like the rest, we were, by nature, deserving of wrath. But because of his great love for us, God, who is rich in mercy, made us alive with Christ even when we were dead in transgressions—it is by Grace you have been saved. And God raised us up with Christ and seated us with him in the heavenly realms in Christ Jesus, in order that in the coming ages he might show the incomparable riches of his Grace, expressed in his kindness to us in Christ Jesus. For it is by Grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God— not by works, so that no one can boast. For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.”

Ephesians 2:1-10

Paul lays out the negatives in the first three verses of this passage. He tells us why we need Jesus.

“As for you, you were dead in your transgressions and sins, in which you used to live when you followed the ways of this world and of the ruler of the kingdom of the air, the Spirit who is now at work in those who are disobedient. All of us also lived among them at one time, gratifying the cravings of our flesh (2:3 In contexts like this, the Greek word for flesh (sarx) refers to the sinful state of human beings, often presented as a power in opposition to the Spirit.) and following its desires and thoughts. Like the rest, we were by nature deserving of wrath.”

You’ll notice I let the N.I.V. Bible’s explanation of flesh in verse 2:3. It’s important to understand that when Paul talks about “The cravings of the flesh,” He’s not just speaking about sex. Paul is talking about our human condition. We are lost without the Grace of God, the love of Christ, and our ongoing relationship with the Holy Spirit.

Every last one of us is dead to sin without God.

The next verse is relatively self-explanatory.

“But because of his great love for us, God, who is rich in mercy, made us alive with Christ even when we were dead in transgressions—it is by grace you have been saved.”

Do you understand what I’m saying here? Paul lays out his case so simply. Because of God’s love, He sent His Son Jesus, so our sins would be wiped away. It almost seems too simple for you and me, doesn’t it? But for Jesus, it meant a life that ended in a miserable death, to the point where His own Father (God) turned His back on Him because He was disgusted by the sin Jesus took on from us.

This brings us to the opening passage, Ephesians 2:8-9, that I spoke of in the introduction.

“For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God— not by works, so that no one can boast.”

Let’s clear something up before I end today’s devotion. B.G.T.F., By Grace through Faith. This is how we are saved from our sins. Our gift of Grace comes freely from God. We have nothing to do with it at all. That’s why we have no right to boast about our newfound freedom from sin. We simply believe.

Finally, Paul states:

For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.“

Doing good works does not save us. We don’t get shiny stars on a chart or a checkmark next to our names for a job well done.

“We’re simply being given the opportunity to do good things. ‘Which God prepared in advance for us to do.”

(People’s Bible Commentary, Ephesians, Pp. 151)

You and I are so blessed. God gives us freedom from sin through His amazing Grace. We respond very simply out of love and because we want to share the Good News with others. We do good works because it’s what God wants us to do. He saved us through His Son, Jesus.

Spreading the Good News and doing good works is a privilege so all may know how loving our God is.

An Overview of Ephesians

By Joe Guagliardo

Ephesians 1:15-23

“Open the eyes of my heart Lord.”

August 1, 2023

Most of you have heard or sung the song, “Open the eyes of my heart Lord.” It was actually written and released in 2000 by, Paul Baloche. In 2001 it was released by Michael W. Smith. The song has become a standard in Contemporary Christian Music.

Here is the first verse and Chorus:

“Open the eyes of my heart, Lord
Open the eyes of my heart
I want to see You
I want to see You

To see You high and lifted up
Shinin’ in the light of Your glory
Pour out Your power and love
As we sing holy, holy, holy”

(Open the eyes of my heart Lord, Lyrics, Michael. W. Smith, Google.com.)

What many people don’t know, is that the song is based on Ephesians 1:18:

“I pray that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened in order that you may know the hope to which he has called you, the riches of his glorious inheritance in his holy people.”

Ephesians 1:18

Now that you know this, let’s take a look at today’s Epistle verses in their entirety.

“For this reason, ever since I heard about your faith in the Lord Jesus and your love for all God’s people, I have not stopped giving thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers. I keep asking that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the glorious Father, may give you the Spirit of wisdom and revelation, so that you may know him better. I pray that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened in order that you may know the hope to which he has called you, the riches of his glorious inheritance in his holy people and his incomparably great power for us who believe. That power is the same as the mighty strength he exerted when he raised Christ from the dead and seated him at his right hand in the heavenly realms, far above all rule and authority, power and dominion, and every name that is invoked, not only in the present age but also in the one to come. And God placed all things under his feet and appointed him to be head over everything for the church, which is his body, the fullness of him who fills everything in every way.”

Ephesians 1:15-23

In verses 15-17, Paul is praising the Ephesians that are followers of Jesus Christ. He is overjoyed by their words and actions.

“For this reason, ever since I heard about your faith in the Lord Jesus and your love for all God’s people, I have not stopped giving thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers. I keep asking that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the glorious Father, may give you the Spirit of wisdom and revelation, so that you may know him better.”

This is quite a different opening than Paul had for the Galatians. He not only continues to pray for the believers in Ephesus, but, he continues to ask God the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit to give them wisdom. In this way, they will know God at an even deeper level.

Then, comes the song verse, from which Paul Baloche’s song, “Open the eyes of my heart Lord,” comes.

“I pray that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened in order that you may know the hope to which he has called you, the riches of his glorious inheritance in his holy people.”

Once again, Paul is using positive words to the Ephesians. He wishes that their eyes are opened, and they understand the “hope” God has called them to.

“in the Bible, hope is the confident expectation of what God has promised, and its strength is in His faithfulness.”

“https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/Christian Hope”

The Hope, Paul is speaking of is not like a female child saying, “I hope I get a Barbie for Christmas.” Instead, it is a knowing hope of receiving what God has promised us.

Paul now speaks of God’s Power

“and his incomparably great power for us who believe. That power is the same as the mighty strength he exerted when he raised Christ from the dead and seated him at his right hand in the heavenly realms, far above all rule and authority, power and dominion, and every name that is invoked, not only in the present age but also in the one to come.”

Paul tends to run his sentences a bit, doesn’t he? 😊

God’s power is so great it cannot be measured or quantified

(https://www.bibleref.com/Ephesians)

But, the same power that He (God) showed when He raised Christ from the dead. The same power God showed when He seated Jesus on His Right side and gave the dominion over His earthly Kingdom. God shows that same power to those of us who believe.

Paul closes this chapter by reinforcing once again who God put in charge of the planet.

“And God placed all things under his feet and appointed him to be head over everything for the church, which is his body, the fullness of him who fills everything in every way.”

Very simply put, God has put Jesus in charge. He is over the church. Paul is very firm about this fact. It’s not about him (or you or me); it’s all about Jesus.

He (Jesus) is our Lord and Savior.

An Overview of Ephesians

By Joe Guagliardo

Ephesians 1:1-14

“Greeting and Blessing the Believers in Ephesus.”

July 30, 2023

In 1973, singer and songwriter Todd Rundgren made the top ten music charts with the song “Hello, it’s Me.” Other artists have used the same or similar title to the song. Hallmark Channel even produced a movie a few years ago titled “Hello, it’s Me.”

The chorus line in Todd Rundgren’s song goes like this.”

“It’s important to me
That you know you are free
‘Cause I never want to make you change for me.”

(Google, Hello it’s me, Lyrics)

In Rundgren’s song, he seems to be talking to and greeting a lost love, whom he thinks about often.

Although not a Christian song, the chorus line above fits well with today’s lesson. Paul greets the Ephesians and explains to them why and that they are indeed free from the bondage of sin. Finally, the believers in Ephesus are free (changed) because of their belief and faith in Jesus Christ.

Let’s take a look at the opening verses of Ephesians.

“Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus by the will of God,

To God’s holy people in Ephesus, the faithful in Christ Jesus:

Grace and peace to you from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.

Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us in the heavenly realms with every spiritual blessing in Christ. For he chose us in him before the creation of the world to be holy and blameless in his sight. In love predestined us for adoption to sonship (1:5 The Greek word for adoption to sonship is a legal term referring to the full legal standing of an adopted male heir in Roman culture.) through Jesus Christ, in accordance with his pleasure and will— to the praise of his glorious grace, which he has freely given us in the One he loves. In him, we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, in accordance with the riches of God’s grace that he lavished on us. With all wisdom and understanding, made known to us the mystery of his will according to his good pleasure, which he purposed in Christ, to be put into effect when the times reach their fulfillment—to bring unity to all things in heaven and on earth under Christ.

In him we were also chosen, (1:11 Or were made heirs) having been predestined according to the plan of him who works out everything in conformity with the purpose of his will, in order that we, who were the first to put our hope in Christ, might be for the praise of his glory. And you also were included in Christ when you heard the message of truth, the gospel of your salvation. When you believed, you were marked in him with a seal, the promised Holy Spirit, who is a deposit guaranteeing our inheritance until the redemption of those who are God’s possession—to the praise of his glory.”

Ephesians 1:1-14

Paul’s greeting to the Ephesians is called a “common greeting.”

“Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus by the will of God,

To God’s holy people in Ephesus, the faithful in Christ Jesus:

Grace and peace to you from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.”

You’ll find that Paul calls himself an Apostle of Jesus throughout the scriptures. He does this because Jesus Himself called him to be not just a follower but someone who spreads Christ’s Good News.

“Meanwhile, Saul was still breathing out murderous threats against the Lord’s disciples. He went to the high priest and asked him for letters to the synagogues in Damascus so that if he found any there who belonged to the Way, whether men or women, he might take them as prisoners to Jerusalem. As he neared Damascus on his journey, suddenly, a light from heaven flashed around him. He fell to the ground and heard a voice say to him, 

“Saul, Saul, why do you persecute me?”

“Who are you, Lord?” Saul asked.

“I am Jesus, whom you are persecuting,” he replied. “Now get up and go into the city, and you will be told what you must do.”

Act 9:1-6

In the following 12 verses, Paul praises Christ for all of the Spiritual blessings God has given him and the believers in Ephesus. Most of what Paul speaks to in this chapter is nothing new to you and me; it should sound familiar.

“Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us in the heavenly realms with every spiritual blessing in Christ.”

Paul begins by praising God and thanking Him for the blessings He has bestowed on us, especially the blessing of Christ. If God had not sent His Son Jesus as a living sacrifice, we’d have little or nothing to live for. Our lives would be hopeless.

God sent His son at just the right time:

 “In him, we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, in accordance with the riches of God’s grace that he lavished on us. With all wisdom and understanding, made known to us the mystery of his will according to his good pleasure, which he purposed in Christ, to be put into effect when the times reach their fulfillment—to bring unity to all things in heaven and on earth under Christ.”

God sent Jesus at just the right time in history. We may say, “But we have so much more in the ways of communication now; why would 2000 years ago be the right time?”

It’s true; we have telephones, computers, radio, and more to communicate a message. Why would God pick the time He did? Perhaps we have too much, and our ways of communication have too many faults. Plus, 2000 years ago was a simpler time without many of the modern “miracles” we now enjoy.

God waited for three things:

First: There were roads and boats to get people from one place to another. Like the Romans or not, they knew how to build roads.

Second: There was a common language in the society that Jesus was born into. Although He spoke Aramaic, Greek was a common language to many in that day.

Third: The scriptures (Old Testament) spoke of a Savior. The people were waiting and praying for a Savior. Jesus was the answer to that prayer.

As I said earlier, much of what is said in these verses should be familiar, as Paul talks about many of the same things in most of his writings.

Paul concludes:

 “When you believed, you were marked in him with a seal, the promised Holy Spirit, who is a deposit guaranteeing our inheritance until the redemption of those who are God’s possession—to the praise of his glory.”

If you hadn’t noticed, Paul speaks of the entire Trinity in these verses. The Holy Spirit guarantees our redemption. He reinforces God’s promise and Jesus’ sacrifice within us every day.

The Holy Spirit guides and directs us in the Way God wants us to go. He also pulls us back on the straight and narrow when we stray.

In 12 verses, Paul tells us of God’s Grace, Jesus’ love and sacrifice, and the Holy Spirit’s guidance in our lives.

Thanks be to God for all He has done, does, and will do for us.

An Overview of Galatians

By Joe Guagliardo

Galatians 6:11-18

“Goodbye, Farewell, and Amen.”

July 16, 2023

For those of you who don’t know, this was the title of the final episode of the television show M.A.S.H.

M.A.S.H. stands for Mobile Army Surgical Hospital.

The words of that final show in the early 80s coincide well with Paul’s final words to the Galatians. Below you will find the conclusion of this book of the Bible. Thus, Paul is saying goodbye to the Galatians after making his case for Christ and not being circumcised.

Paul is also saying farewell. He has done all he can to convince the Galatians that God’s grace and our faith are enough for salvation.

And Paul finishes his discourse by saying the word amen. One of the definitions of the word amen is very truly; it is true. So, concludes this Book of Galatians by stating what he has said here is true.

Let’s take a moment and read Paul’s parting words to the Galatians.

“See what large letters I use as I write to you with my own hand!

Those who want to impress people by means of the flesh are trying to compel you to be circumcised. The only reason they do this is to avoid being persecuted for the cross of Christ. Not even those who are circumcised keep the law, yet they want you to be circumcised that they may boast about your circumcision in the flesh. May I never boast except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, through which (6:14 Or whom the world has been crucified to me, and I to the world. Neither circumcision nor uncircumcision means anything; what counts is the new creation. Peace and mercy to all who follow this rule—to the Israel of God.

From now on, let no one cause me trouble, for I bear on my body the marks of Jesus.

The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ is with your spirit, brothers, and sisters. Amen.”

Galatians 6:11-18

“See what large letters I use as I write to you with my own hand!”

This is an interesting way for Paul to begin his conclusion, isn’t it? Usually, writers such as St. Paul would use a scribe as they dictated the words to be written. In addition, the scribes generally wrote relatively small, as writing materials and parchment were scarce and expensive.

Here Paul himself writes the opening line. Paul is telling the Galatians that he doesn’t care about the cost of the paper or ink used. He is writing in large Script to again emphasize how true his words are.

Paul speaks once again about the Judaizers:

“Those who want to impress people by means of the flesh are trying to compel you to be circumcised. The only reason they do this is to avoid being persecuted for the cross of Christ. Not even those who are circumcised keep the law, yet they want you to be circumcised that they may boast about your circumcision in the flesh”

Paul closes out his writing by once again emphasizing that circumcision is not needed to obtain salvation and is pointless. Paul continues to reinforce this point.

Finally, after both chastising and encouraging the Galatians, Paul says:

“From now on, let no one cause me trouble, for I bear on my body the marks of Jesus.”

Paul seems to be speaking of the many hardships he has been through:

“I have worked much harder, been in prison more frequently, been flogged more severely, and been exposed to death again and again. Five times I received from the Jews the forty lashes minus one. Three times I was beaten with rods, once I was pelted with stones. Three times I was shipwrecked, I spent a night and a day in the open sea, I have been constantly on the move. I have been in danger from rivers, in danger from bandits, in danger from my fellow Jews, in danger from Gentiles; in danger in the city, in danger in the country, in danger at sea; and in danger from false believers. I have labored and toiled and have often gone without sleep; I have known hunger and thirst and have often gone without food; I have been cold and naked. Besides everything else, I face daily the pressure of my concern for all the churches.”

2nd Corinthians: 23b-28

Paul is not saying he is like Christ. Instead, he points out all of the hardships he has gone through for the love of Christ. Paul was willing, as should we be, to suffer for what Jesus did for us on the cross.

Finally, on a positive note, because Paul has not given up on the Galatians, he bids them a cheerful goodbye by blessing them in the name of Jesus.

“The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit, brothers and sisters. Amen.”

(Thank you for reading and following me as I’ve shared these devotions based on the book of Galatians. To catch up or reread these devotions, go to joegministries.com. All of these devotions will be on the opening page in reverse order.)

God’s blessings

Joe G

An Overview of Galatians

By Joe Guagliardo

Galatians 6:6-10

“We Reap what we Sow.”

July 13, 2023

“To reap is “to gather a crop” and to sow, “to plant seeds.” Throughout versions of the Bible, sowing is used as a metaphor for one’s actions and reaping for the results of those actions.”

(Dictionary.com)

We all do it. We reap what we sow.

If we are kind to others, they will generally be kind to us. If we give of our time and talents to others and the church, there is generally reciprocation when we need it most.

As most of you know, my first 28 years in the workforce were in the food industry. At one time, I had a district manager who was not very nice. He was generally critical and hostile towards people, including myself.

One day I found out he had been fired. He was in his mid-50s and had to start over again. No one ever told me why he was let go, but I had my suspicions. I saw him the day after he was fired. I shook his hand and wished him well. He told me, “I’ll bet you’re glad you won’t have to see me anymore.” I looked him in the eye and said, “That’s not true; I feel bad that you are unemployed.”

Today’s verses from Galatians also address the issue of reaping what you sow. Let’s take a look:

“Nevertheless, the one who receives instruction in the word should share all good things with their instructor.

Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows’ Whoever sows to please their flesh, from the flesh will reap destruction; whoever sows to please the Spirit, from the Spirit will reap eternal life. Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time, we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers.”

Galatians 6:6-10

It’s okay to have money. As a matter of fact, it’s okay to be rich. The question is, what are you, using your riches on? First of all, don’t believe for a minute I am preaching we should give all of our riches to the church.

But, God teaches us, not to be greedy, to help others, and to support the church.

The first line of this passage says:

“the one who receives instruction in the word should share all good things with their instructor.”

What is Paul saying? We should share what we have with others. We should especially look out for and help fellow believers. Yes, we can do that on an individual basis. But we can also do that through our support of the church.

It’s interesting how Paul continues:

“Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked.”

We cannot be contemptuous of God. We should not be disrespectful of Him. God knows everything. If we think we can get away with reaping what we do not sow, we are wrong!

In the rest of the verse, Paul talks about reaping and sowing. Reaping or attempting to reap what we do not sow disrespects God and man.

My favorite line from this passage is:

 “Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time, we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.“

Doing good is our outward way of responding to God’s love (Grace). We sow our love of God to others. We do this because we love God. What we reap is someday to enjoy everlasting life with our Lord.

As I said earlier, and Paul relates at the end of this passage; When we have the opportunity, we should do good for others, especially for believers. What does doing good for others look like?

Share a meal with someone who needs to talk or is just in need of food. Working at outreach opportunities the church and community have to offer. Most of all, love others, listen to them and help where you can.

You and I are God’s hands and feet. Let us do good, and sow good, as we love God and others.

An Overview of Galatians

By Joe Guagliardo

Galatians 5:26-6:6

“Don’t get cocky!”

July 10, 2023

There are times in our lives when we can get a little cocky. We buy a new fancy car and brag about it to our friends. Or possibly, we get the highest grade in the class, or possibly we’re named Valedictorian. It would be easy to get cocky over these accomplishments.

Even in comic book movies (Marvel), some of the characters get a little cocky. Ironman, Tony Stark, takes out three robots and says to his friend Rhode, “Did you see that?” And Rhode’s answer to him is, “Don’t get cocky!”

And, of course, who can forget Luke Skywalker shooting down his first Empire ship. After he yells out, “I got him,” Han Solo puts him in his place and says, “Good job, kid, don’t get cocky.”

The dictionary definition of cocky is:

“Cocky means “overly self-confident,” like a cocky announcement at the beginning of the season that your soccer team will win the championship.”

 Without even trying. Cocky originally meant “lecherous” or lustful, but evolved to mean “arrogantly pert” in the 1700s.

(Vocabulary.com)

We’ve all been cocky at one time or another in our lives. In today’s devotion, Paul tells us we should be the exact opposite.

“Let us not become conceited, provoking, and envying each other. Brothers and sisters, if someone is caught in a sin, you who live by the Spirit should restore that person gently. But watch yourselves, or you also may be tempted. Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way, you will fulfill the law of Christ. If anyone thinks they are something when they are not, they deceive themselves. Each one should test their own actions. Then they can take pride in themselves alone, without comparing themselves to someone else, for each one should carry their own load. Nevertheless, the one who receives instruction in the word should share all good things with their instructor.”

Galatians 5:26-6:6

Paul begins this passage and says:

“Let us not become conceited, provoking, and envying each other. Brothers and sisters, if someone is caught in a sin, you who live by the Spirit should restore that person gently.”

Another words, don’t be cocky. Instead, we should support our friends and family (Brothers and sisters) and help them to turn away from sin. Paul also warns us that if we’re not careful, we, too, can fall into sin.

I can remember many years ago, a young lady from my church who was active in several ministries, including choir, fell in love with a young man. She knew he was not a churchgoer, nor did he believe. After they were married, he slowly won her over. She eventually left the church.

It’s easy to get pulled into the entrapments the world has to offer. Only our faith and belief in Jesus can help us overcome them.

Paul goes on to say:

“Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way, you will fulfill the law of Christ.”

If someone is doing something they should not be doing, then, we should help them. It is not being cocky if we admonish someone for their deed. Instead, we are doing what Jesus would do. (When Paul says “the law of Christ,” he means doing as Christ would do, being Christlike.)

Paul goes on to tell us not to be prideful when we compare ourselves to others. That would be like a Pastor saying, “I’m a pastor, so I’m better than the rest of my congregation.” First of all, that isn’t the point of being a Pastor. And second, God calls people to be Pastors even though they are sinful, just like you and me.

Sometimes we think we are better or stronger than others (cocky), but that’s not true. Each and every one of us needs God’s grace and mercy each and every day. Remember, without God’s Son, Jesus, dying on the cross and rising on the third day, we are all lost sinners. But thank God for His Son Jesus, who did, die for you and me to make us free.

Remember the words of Ephesians 4:32:

“Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ, God forgave you.”

An Overview of Galatians

By Joe Guagliardo

Galatians 5:13-25

“Do be a do bee, don’t be a don’t be.”

July 8, 2023

In the early part of the 1950s, there was very little on television compared to today. At midnight most television stations would sign off with a rendition of the national anthem, followed by the station signing off, and a picture of an Indian chief would appear on the T.V. with an annoying noise. The stations usually didn’t sign back on till 6 or 7 a.m.

I lived in Chicago when I was young, and there was quite a bit of children’s programming from WGN in Chicago. When I was very young, I watched a television show (In black and white) called Romper Room.

Romper Room used guests, games, music, and cartoons to have fun with children and instill moral values.

One of those recurring characters was Mr. Do Bee, an oversized bumblebee who helped teach the moral lessons (“Do Bee a good sport when you lose”).

(Search IMBD, Romper Room)

Of course, the other side of being a do bee is being a don’t bee, such as being a sore loser, not following rules, or showing proper etiquette.

That brings us to today’s devotion. Paul tells the Galatians to be “Good Bees” and follow the Fruit of the Spirit. He also tells them they will never achieve salvation if they become “Don’t Bees” and give into the acts of the Flesh.

Let’s take a few moments to read today’s lesson from Galatians.

“You, my brothers and sisters, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the; rather, serve one another humbly in love. For the entire law is fulfilled in keeping this one command: “Love your neighbor as yourself.” If you bite and devour each other, watch out, or you will be destroyed by each other.

So, I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the Flesh. For the Flesh desires what is contrary to the Spirit, and the Spirit what is contrary to the Flesh. They are in conflict with each other so that you are not to do whatever you want. But if you are led by the Spirit, you are not under the law.

The acts of the Flesh are obvious: sexual immorality, impurity, and debauchery; idolatry and witchcraft; hatred, discord, jealousy, fits of rage, selfish ambition, dissensions, factions, and envy; drunkenness, orgies, and the like. I warn you, as I did before, that those who live like this will not inherit the kingdom of God.

But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. Against such things, there is no law. Those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the Flesh with its passions and desires. Since we live by the Spirit, let us keep in step with the Spirit.”          

Galatians 5:13-25

Paul begins by telling the Galatians and us that we are free. That is true. We are free because of God’s saving Grace and Jesus’ death and resurrection. Our sins are forgiven, and we no longer need to fear death because Jesus took the sting from it.

We should love one another and not indulge in all life’s pitfalls. What are the pitfalls Paul is speaking of, the acts of the Flesh.

“The acts of the Flesh are obvious: sexual immorality, impurity, and debauchery; idolatry and witchcraft; hatred, discord, jealousy, fits of rage, selfish ambition, dissensions, factions, and envy; drunkenness, orgies, and the like. I warn you, as I did before, that those who live like this will not inherit the kingdom of God.”

As you can see, the world pulls at us to live in ways that are ungodly. It’s quite an extensive list, and we’ve all probably encountered them. Perhaps we’ve even acted on them. This is why God sent His Holy Spirit to us in the Sacrament of Baptism. The Holy Spirit is our guide in life and helps deter us from acting on the ways of the Flesh.

Instead, the Holy Spirit gives us the Fruit of the Spirit to enjoy and live by.

“But the Fruit of the Spirit is joy, peace, forbearance, goodness, kindness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. Against such things, there is no law.”

Paul’s comment, “Against such things, there is no law,” is astute. Of course, there can be no law against things that are holy. God gives us His Holy Spirit to guide us in the direction of the Fruits of the Spirit and away from the acts of the Flesh.

If we are followers of Christ, then our sins are nailed to the same cross that Jesus was crucified on. You and I are forgiven, By Grace, through Faith.

Even though the world pulls at us to live a life apart from Christ, let us instead be determined in our pursuit of the Fruit of the Spirit.

An Overview of Galatians

By Joe Guagliardo

Galatians 5:1-12

“We are Free because God wants us to be free.”

July 5, 2023

The 1^st verse of this Galatians chapter, 5:1-12, is somewhat apropos, as yesterday was July 4. It’s almost as though Paul was speaking to those Americans involved in the war of independence from Great Britain.  

Though it cost many lives, God’s Providence, the United States of America prevailed in their/our fight for independence from England. Now, almost 250 years later, we are still free, but we fight amongst ourselves quite a bit, don’t we?

We have differences of opinion on religious beliefs, politics, immigration, and what party is better, Democrats, Republicans, and sometimes even an Independent.

Unfortunately, we seem to think we can say or do whatever we want because of our freedoms. We indeed have one of the greatest militaries in the history of the world. But, our downfall, if and when we have one, will not come from outside this country; it will come from within.

Read the words of Abraham Lincoln:

“From whence shall we expect the approach of danger? Shall some trans-Atlantic military giant step the earth and crush us at a blow? Never. All the armies of Europe and Asia…could not by force take a drink from the Ohio River or make a track on the Blue Ridge in the trial of a thousand years. No, if destruction be our lot, we must ourselves be its author and finisher. As a nation of free men, we will live forever or die by suicide.”

Abraham Lincoln (Goodreads.com/quotes)

I’m going to stop right there. As this is a devotion and not a political statement. The point is that Paul sees in the Galatians what Abraham Lincoln saw in the future of our country. If destruction was to come, it would be from within. For the Galatians, those within striving to cause believers to fall away from the belief of being saved by Faith alone were the Judaizers.

“It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery.

Mark my words! I, Paul, tell you that if you let yourselves be circumcised, Christ will be of no value to you at all. Again, I declare to every man who lets himself be circumcised that he is obligated to obey the whole law. You who are trying to be justified by the law have been alienated from Christ; you have fallen away from grace.  For through the Spirit, we eagerly await by Faith the righteousness for which we hope.  For in Christ Jesus, neither circumcision nor uncircumcision has any value. The only thing that counts is Faith expressing itself through love.

You were running a good race. Who cut in on you to keep you from obeying the truth? That kind of persuasion does not come from the one who calls you. “A little yeast works through the whole batch of dough.” I am confident in the Lord that you will take no other view. The one who is throwing you into confusion, whoever that may be, will have to pay the penalty. Brothers and sisters, if I am still preaching circumcision, why am I still being persecuted? In that case, the offense of the cross has been abolished. As for those agitators, I wish they would go the whole way and emasculate themselves!”

Galatians 5:1-12

Let’s break these verses down a bit. Paul begins by saying:

“It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery.”

God has set us free through His Grace. He gives us His Grace freely and asks only that we have Faith in Him and what His Son has taught and did for us. Anything else, such as being circumcised and continuing to live under the Mosaic law, is slavery.

We can only be saved by what we do, and it has to be perfect if we follow the law of Moses. But, if we receive God’s Grace and have Faith in Christ, we are free. We are God’s people and will join Him one day for all of eternity.

Paul ends the first section of these verses with these words:

“The only thing that counts is faith expressing itself through love.”

“Faith alone saves, but saving Faith is never alone. It is always “expressing itself through love.” Appreciation for the unspeakable great grace God has shown us requires a response from us. It can’t be any different. We simply have to say thank you to our God by doing deeds of love whenever and wherever an opportunity presents itself.”

(People’s Bible Commentary, Galatians/Ephesians, Pp. 92)

Yes, we are justified by Faith in Jesus Christ and God’s Grace. But there’s more. We don’t earn our way into heaven by doing good deeds. But, when we acknowledge God’s grace and accept Jesus Christ as our Lord and Savior, we should want to show God’s love by loving others.

I won’t go into a list of good deeds to do. I think you’ll know what they are when you see the opportunity. (Okay, helping a neighbor, giving to those in need, etc.)

Paul gets a bit aggressive at the end of these verses. But first, he again reminds the Galatians that they were doing an excellent job of following Christ until the Judaizers came into play.

He strongly encourages them to not follow them by returning to following the Mosaic laws. Paul states that he no longer encourages circumcision, which is why he is still being persecuted.

Paul is so upset with the Judaizers that he suggests that instead of just getting circumcised, they should go all the way and emasculate themselves.

Yes, Paul is being harsh. But as a true believer in God’s Grace through our Faith in Jesus, he understandably shows his disdain for the Judaizers.