Galatians 1:16

"But when it was the good pleasure of God, who separated me from my mother’s womb and called me through his grace,"

Key Reflection

In Galatians 1:16, Paul reflects on his divine calling, emphasizing that it was not by human will but entirely the work of God's sovereign pleasure. This verse underscores how Paul, from the very moment of his birth, was set apart for a special purpose by God’s grace, highlighting the unexpected and mysterious nature of one's vocation in Christ. The idea that God had chosen him even before he could understand or desire such a calling reflects the profound and unmerited character of divine election.

From the Scholars: Barnes' Notes

Verse 16. To reveal his Son in me. This is to be regarded as connected with the first part of Ga 1:15: "When it pleased God to reveal his Son in me," i.e., on the way to Damascus. The phrase evidently means, to make me acquainted with the Lord Jesus, or to reveal his Son to me. Comp. the Greek in Mt 10:32, for a similar expression. The revelation here referred to was the miraculous manifestation which was made to Paul on his way to Damascus. Compare 2 Co 4:6. That revelation was in order to convince him that he was the Messiah; to acquaint him with his nature, rank, and claims; and to qualify him to be a preacher to the heathen. That I might preach him.

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