My Boast Is In The Cross

Text

Galatians 6:11–18 NASB95

11 See with what large letters I am writing to you with my own hand. 12 Those who desire to make a good showing in the flesh try to compel you to be circumcised, simply so that they will not be persecuted for the cross of Christ. 13 For those who are circumcised do not even keep the Law themselves, but they desire to have you circumcised so that they may boast in your flesh. 14 But may it never be that I would boast, except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, through which the world has been crucified to me, and I to the world. 15 For neither is circumcision anything, nor uncircumcision, but a new creation. 16 And those who will walk by this rule, peace and mercy be upon them, and upon the Israel of God. 17 From now on let no one cause trouble for me, for I bear on my body the brand-marks of Jesus. 18 The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit, brethren. Amen.

Histroical evidence shows that many letters written during the time Paul lived in had a particular feature of having two distinct handwritings. One refined, professional handwriting a more unrefined one.

This appears to be a common practice of having a scribe/secretary write via dictation the major part of the letter and then the author writing the summary himself.

This would be done to summarize major points already made in the letter so that the intended audience could remember it. It gave the author the opportunity to underscore what he has already stated.

Galatians Summary and Benedictions (6:11–18)

For this reason the conclusion of a letter often provided important interpretive clues to the entire letter. Hansen, Walter

Paul has taken up the pen, to state clearly what the will of the Lord is for the churches.

What does Paul want to etch into the minds of his audience as he concludes this letter?

The answer to this questions, provides the content for this sermon.