Galatians 5:11

“And I, brethren, if I yet preach circumcision, why do I yet suffer persecution? then is the offence of the cross ceased.”

Context:The Apostle Paul wrote the book of Galatians to address a serious issue that was threatening the faith of the Galatian churches. False teachers had infiltrated the region, promoting a distorted version of the gospel that required Gentile believers to adhere to the Jewish law, specifically the rite of circumcision. Paul vehemently opposed this teaching and wrote Galatians to defend the true gospel of grace through faith in Jesus Christ.

Exegesis:

Historical background:Circumcision was a significant practice in Judaism, symbolising the covenant between God and the Jewish people. The false teachers in Galatia were insisting that Gentile believers needed to be circumcised to be considered truly saved.

Paul’s question:In this verse, Paul questions the Galatians, asking why he would face persecution if he were preaching circumcision. The implication is that if Paul were teaching circumcision, which was a key part of the Jewish law, there would be no offense or stumbling block for those who opposed the gospel. However, the fact that Paul faced persecution indicated that he was preaching something different from what the false teachers were advocating.

The offense of the cross:The phrase “then is the offence of the cross ceased” refers to the scandal or stumbling block caused by the message of the cross. The Gospel of Jesus Christ, which emphasises salvation by grace through faith and not by observing the law, was offensive to those who were relying on their own works and religious practices for righteousness.

The central message:Paul’s central message in Galatians is that salvation is not obtained through works of the law but through faith in Jesus Christ. The cross of Christ was offensive to those who insisted on their own righteousness, as it exposed the futility of their efforts to earn salvation.

Application:This verse reminds us of the crucial message of salvation through faith in Christ alone. It highlights the tension between human efforts to earn salvation and the grace of God extended through the cross. As believers, we must guard against any teaching that adds requirements to the gospel, knowing that salvation is a free gift received by faith.

• Perseverance in the face of persecution:Paul’s question also underscores his endurance and commitment to preach the true gospel, even in the face of opposition and persecution. It serves as an encouragement for believers to remain steadfast in their faith and to boldly proclaim the message of the cross, regardless of the opposition encountered.

Overall, Galatians 5:11 emphasises the offense and scandal of the cross, which challenges human pride and self-righteousness. It reminds us that salvation is not earned by works but is received by faith in Jesus Christ alone.