A Slippery Slope

A Slippery Slope

Comments on Galatians with an ear to Luther’s commentary

Scripture Text: Galatians 1:11-12 and 1 Corinthians 10:12-13

Series: Comments on Galatians

Today's Scripture Jigsaw

You’re no child of mine! That is what we sometimes believe the Lord says to our consciences. But that is actually the law speaking, not the gospel. We slip when we sin but we completely fall when we sin and allow the law and conscience to condemn us. We slip and fall when we do not let the gospel reassure us of the grace of God. The law condemns us, as it should; it was made for just that purpose. But the gospel helps us stand in the grace of God (Romans 5:2) instead of our own actions that always fail us.

Man’s “gospel” says that we are saved by grace but had better be good little children from here on out or grace is forfeited. You weren’t good before so I will give you one more gracious chance. Don’t blow it!

Man’s “gospel” says we must add to grace by not doing some things and doing certain other things to prove one’s goodness to both God and self. The gospel of God says one can never be good enough so grace is required both now and later. Good works and law-keeping are not required later; grace is required just as much later as it was at the start.

Beware, you who think you stand because of the good things you do. Life is a slippery slope and you may be on the verge of not merely a slip, but a fall too. You stand before God by his grace alone.

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