12/23/2023: Galatians 1:22-24 – The gospel changes hearts and makes friends of former enemies.

 

Galatians 1:22-24 (NKJV)

²² And I was unknown by face to the churches of Judea which were in Christ. ²³ But they were hearing only, “He who formerly persecuted us now preaches the faith which he once tried to destroy.” ²⁴ And they glorified God in me.

Thought for today – The gospel changes hearts and makes friends of former enemies.

These verses describe two miracles that are characteristic of true faith in Jesus Christ.  The first miracle is that people who believe in Him are radically transformed.  Paul’s life was so revolutionized by his faith that news that he now preached the same gospel that they believed spread to people he had formerly pursued and persecuted.  The second miracle may seem more subtle but is no less revolutionary.  These Judean believers who could naturally have hated Paul and been jealous of his success in the gospel instead rejoiced and glorified God for his salvation and transformation.

That’s what the Book says!