Galatians 1:11

"For am I now seeking the favor of men, or of God? Or am I striving to please men? For if I were still pleasing men, I wouldn’t be a servant of Christ."

Key Reflection

Galatians 1:11 challenges Paul’s own motives and actions, asserting that his mission is not driven by human approval but by divine calling. By asking whether he seeks the favor of men or God, and by rejecting the idea of pleasing people, Paul emphasizes the authenticity of his ministry as a servant of Christ. This self-reflection underscores the tension between adhering to human expectations and staying true to one’s vocation in Christ.

From the Scholars: Barnes' Notes

Verse 11. But I certify you. I make known to you; or, I declare to you. See 1 Co 15:1. Doubtless this had been known to them before, but he now assures them of it, and goes into an extended illustration to show them that he had not received his authority from man to preach the gospel. To state and prove this is the main design of this chapter. Is not after man. Greek, not according to man. See Ga 1:1. That is, he was not appointed by man, nor had he any human instructor to make known to him what the gospel was. He had neither received it from man, nor had it been debased or adulterated by any human admixtures. He had received it directly from the Lord Jesus.

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