Commentary Insights

This verse reads: “But I certify you, brethren, that the gospel which was preached of me is not after man.” (Galatians 1:11, KJV). Each of the following commentaries provide valuable insights into Paul’s declaration.

• Matthew Henry's Commentary

  Matthew Henry emphasizes that Paul’s claim to revelation emphasizes his unique position among the apostles. He notes that the gospel Paul preached was not derived from human wisdom or tradition, but directly from Christ. This point is critical in establishing the authority of his message and safeguarding the integrity of the Christian faith against the Judaizers’ influence.

  Henry also highlights that Paul underwent a radical transformation that lends credibility to his claim. The severity of his past as a persecutor of Christians contrasts sharply with his current mission as a messenger of the gospel. The divine intervention in his life exemplifies that the gospel he preaches is not shaped by human agendas but by God’s sovereign plan.

• Albert Barnes' Notes on the Bible

  Albert Barnes elaborates on the phrase “not after man,” indicating that the gospel Paul preached was not a product of his own invention or the teachings of others. Rather, it was a revelation that came directly from Jesus Christ. Barnes stresses that authenticapostolic authority stems from divine revelation rather than human tradition.

  Furthermore, Barnes notes the implications of this assertion for the believers in Galatia. By affirming the divine source of his message, Paul calls them to reject the modifications and additions proposed by the false teachers who sought to mix law with the gospel. This foundational truth is vital for maintaining the piety and sincerity of the Christian walk among believers.

• Adam Clarke's Commentary

  Adam Clarke focuses on the implications of Paul's statement about the divine origin of his message. He argues that Paul emphasizes that his authority stems from Christ’s direct instruction, which affirms the necessity of realizing that Christian doctrine should not be altered or diluted by cultural or societal norms.

  Clarke also points out that the phrase “I certify you, brethren” conveys a solemn assurance, indicating that Paul strongly desires the Galatians to understand the gravity of the situation they face with false teachings. His passionate defense serves to inspire confidence among the believers in the truth of the gospel he imparted.

Theological Implications

The critical theological implications of Galatians 1:11 center on the nature of revelation and authority in the Christian faith. The assertion by Paul that his message is divinely ordained calls into question the source of teachings that deviate from the gospel as presented in the New Testament.

This verse serves as a reminder that true Christian doctrine must be firmly rooted in the scriptures and direct revelation from God. It challenges pastors, students, and scholars to discern carefully the origins of their theological frameworks, ensuring that they align with the classical understanding of the gospel that has been handed down through the centuries.

Conclusion

In summary, Galatians 1:11 is a crucial verse that elaborates on the authority and authenticity of Paul's apostolic ministry. Public domain commentaries such as those by Henry, Barnes, and Clarke provide insightful interpretations that emphasize the divine rather than human origin of the gospel. This understanding is vital for contemporary believers as they navigate a landscape filled with competing teachings. It calls for a revival of commitment to the gospel’s purity, encouraging all believers to return to scripture as the ultimate authority in faith and practice.