Galatians 4:12a
Brothers, I entreat you, become as I am, for I also have become as you are.
Which came first—the chicken or the egg? Why should the Galatians become like Paul when he says he had become like them? This sounds a bit like circular reasoning…or a dog chasing its tail. When I first encountered this verse, I was confused. I was also a little nervous. Was Paul saying that the Galatians should strive to be more like him? Why not just point them to Jesus? On the other hand, would I ever use myself as a walking billboard for what’s great about becoming a Christian? Would you?
If you ever wonder how I come up with these devotionals, I can assure you—I have lots of help. First of all, I rely on the power of the Holy Spirit to help me recall what I have already learned, as well as to pick the verses that I should write on each weekday. Secondly, I have several sources of amazing teaching that helps to guide me and to fill in the blanks. One website is called Precept Austin and it is a mind-boggling compilation of devotional thoughts, bible study, commentaries, and original language helps from some of the greatest Christian thinkers in church history. Another resource I use is Enduring Word, a bible commentary website compiled by Pastor David Guzik. Each morning, then, is a Spirit-led exploration into particular verses that I feel led to write about.
You should do what I do!
Paul was not pointing to himself as a perfect example of a perfect Savior, but rather, as a great example of someone who consistently walks in the freedom of his salvation rather than the slavery and legalism of the Law. Paul had walked more than a mile in the shoes of a Jewish legalist— “I also have become as you are” —and so he was reminding his Galatian friends that he understood the challenge of trying to walk in newfound freedom. Would you like to return to your pre-Christian life? Would you recommend it to others? How does it feel to walk in the knowledge that you are fully known, fully loved, and that God has adopted you into his Eternal Family? Don’t you want that for everyone you know and love?
They should do what you have done!
The great John Stott said, “All Christians should be able to say something like this, especially to unbelievers, namely that we are so satisfied with Jesus Christ, with His freedom, joy and salvation, that we want other people to become like us.” I would never say, “Imitate my behavior!” without first acknowledging that my behavior does not always match my position in Christ. On the other hand, I would want people to follow my lead in knowing that they are loved and accepted by the LORD! I want all my friends and family to experience the joy of salvation! I want them to know what it is like to be overwhelmed by God’s Amazing Grace!
Please! Become like me! Become a follower of Jesus Christ!
