The Apostle Paul wrote at least 12 different books of the New Testament, and started a number of churches all over the “known” world. A resume that even our modern churches would take note of. I imagine that every church plant there was a strong emphasis on the gospel and keeping this doctrine free from error as it is the “gospel of salvation to everyone who believes.” (Romans 1:16)

However, many of the letters that Paul wrote to different churches were actually letters to help them get back on track, and the letter to the Church of Galatia was no exception. In fact, Paul actually states he is amazed that they are so soon removed from the gospel. (Galatians 1:6) They have added human effort to a gospel that is only obtained through faith in what Christ has done. This letter was to reiterate the uselessness (if that’s a word) of human effort and the power of the true gospel.

One of the “takeaways” here is that here you have a church that was started by Paul himself, and they fell into error within a short amount of time and not just a little error, they changed the gospel! This means that every single church on the planet is at risk for allowing doctrinal error to creep in. Every single person, in every church, and every believer needs to be vigilant and guard against doctrinal error, especially in the time we live in. No one is above this temptation, from the Doctor in Theology to the high school graduate, from the pastor to the janitor. When you believe you are above this temptation, then watch out, you are next. We are all to “Study to show ourselves approved to God, a workman that needs not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the Word of Truth.” (2 Timothy 2:15) Hold on to sound doctrine, it will lead you to life.