The seed of the gospel of Jesus – Galatians 1:11-12
Preaching Outline on Galatians 1:11-12 – But I make known to you, brethren, that the gospel which was preached by me is not according to men, for I neither received it nor learned it from any man, but by the revelation of Jesus Christ.
Introduction to Galatians 1:11-12
In times of “fake news” and distorted information, where the truth seems to get lost in a sea of opinions and ideologies, how can we be sure that we are following the right path? How can we know if the message we hear is really the Word of God? This search for the authentic truth, for the reliable source, is a human need present in every age, and it manifests itself even more intensely in today’s world.
The apostle Paul, in his letter to the Galatians, faces a similar problem. False teachers were distorting the gospel, sowing doubt and confusion in the Christian community. Faced with this threat, Paul makes a powerful statement in Galatians 1:11-12: “But I make known to you, brethren, that the gospel which was preached by me is not according to men. For I did not receive it, nor did I learn it from any man, but by the revelation of Jesus Christ”.
These words resonate strongly today, reminding us that the true gospel is not a human invention, not the product of ideologies or philosophies, but a divine revelation, a seed planted by God in our hearts. In a world that seeks answers from gurus, influencers and passing ideologies, the Word of God remains the only source of truth and eternal life.
In this sermon, we will explore the meaning of Paul’s statement in Galatians 1:11-12, reflecting on the importance of preserving the purity of the gospel and holding on to the true seed planted by God. Let’s dive into the Scriptures and discover how we can cultivate this seed in our hearts, allowing it to bear fruit in our lives.
Development
The Divine Origin of the Gospel:
Paul affirms that the gospel he proclaims is not of human origin. He didn’t receive it from any man, nor did he learn it through study or tradition. His message has a divine origin, revealed by Jesus Christ himself. This affirmation is fundamental to the Christian faith, as it guarantees the authenticity and authority of the gospel.
In 2 Timothy 3:16, we read: “All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness”. The Bible, as the Word of God, is the primary source of the gospel, and its message transcends time and culture.
In the face of the many voices clamoring for attention in today’s world, it is essential to cling to the Word of God, seeking in it the truth that liberates and transforms. The gospel is not one opinion among others, but God’s own revelation to humanity.
The Revelation of Jesus Christ:
Paul received the gospel through a revelation from Jesus Christ. He had a personal and transforming encounter with the Lord, who called him to be an apostle and proclaimer of the good news. This experience deeply marked Paul’s life and gave him the certainty that he was preaching the true message of salvation.
In Acts 9, we read about Paul’s conversion, when he had a vision of Jesus on the road to Damascus. This radical encounter transformed his life and pushed him to dedicate himself entirely to preaching the gospel.
Like Paul, every Christian is called to have a personal encounter with Jesus, to experience his grace and to be transformed by his love. It is in this encounter that the seed of the gospel is planted in our hearts, germinating and bearing fruit.
Guarding the Purity of the Gospel:
Paul was concerned about the distortion of the gospel by false teachers. He urged the Galatians to stand firm in the truth they had received, not to be led astray by misleading teachings. This concern remains relevant today, where many voices are raised against the truth of the gospel.
Jude 3 exhorts us to “contend for the faith that was once for all delivered to the saints”. We must be vigilant and zealous in defending the truth, resisting attempts to distort the gospel and confuse believers.
In a world bombarded with information, it is essential to develop spiritual discernment, the ability to distinguish truth from error, chaff from wheat. Reading the Bible, prayer and fellowship with other Christians help us to grow in our knowledge of God and strengthen our faith.
Conclusion of Galatians 1:11-12
Paul’s statement in Galatians 1:11-12 reminds us of the divine origin of the gospel and the importance of preserving its purity. In a world full of uncertainty and confusing voices, the Word of God remains the only sure source of truth and life.
May we be like good farmers, caring for the seed of the gospel planted in our hearts, allowing it to grow and bear abundant fruit. May we be faithful to the truth, proclaiming it with courage and clarity, and helping others to find the way of salvation in Jesus Christ.
May God’s grace and peace be with us all.
Preaching Outline on Galatians 1:11-12 – But I make known to you, brethren, that the gospel which was preached by me is not according to men, for I neither received it nor learned it from any man, but by the revelation of Jesus Christ.
More Preaching Outlines
- The Lord’s Supper – 1 Corinthians 11:23
- Jesus gave himself for us – Galatians 1:4
- Jesus the Seed – Mark 4:26-29
- The call of man – Galatians 1:15-17
