Who Says?

Who Says?

Comments on Galatians with an ear to Luther’s commentary

Scripture Text: Galatians 2:7-8 and Titus 2:11-15

Series: Comments on Galatians

Today's Scripture Jigsaw

Paul did not immediately remind those who would be swayed by his detractors that the other apostles had affirmed his apostolic ministry. His first claim of authority was that God revealed the gospel directly to him (Galatians 1:11-12). It did not matter if no one believed him or supported him; Jesus revealed and called and that was paramount. This is his foundational claim to preaching authoritatively: God says so. If someone was accosted today for preaching the gospel of grace, he might respond with credentials. My denomination granted me this license to preach. This would be secondary authorization at best. If someone’s teaching were reproached, he might reply that he learned it in seminary. This too, is a secondary authority. At best.

“For the grace of God has appeared, bringing salvation for all people” (Titus 2:11). This must be taught: salvation comes by the grace of God alone, and never as a result of one’s works (Isaiah 64:6). We must “declare these things.” (Titus 2:15) We must declare salvation by grace with “all authority” and “let no one disregard” us, for our calling and our authority come from God. There will always be those who question the teaching of salvation by grace, demanding, “Who says?” The first answer must always be clear: God says so. No other authority is sufficient.

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