Commentary on Galatians 1:4

Verse: "Who gave himself for our sins, that he might deliver us from this present evil world, according to the will of God and our Father."

Introduction

The Apostle Paul, in his epistle to the Galatians, presents the core of the gospel message succinctly in Galatians 1:4. This verse encapsulates the redemptive work of Christ and His purpose in relation to humanity's plight. It emphasizes the self-giving nature of Jesus, the deliverance He offers from sin and evil, and the divine intention behind this sacrifice.

Exegesis and Theological Implications

Central to the verse are three critical elements:

• The sacrificial act of Christ
• The deliverance from sin and evil
• The divine will of God

The Sacrificial Act of Christ

Paul begins with the significant declaration that Christ "gave himself for our sins." Matthew Henry emphasizes the concept of "self-giving" as a profound aspect of the atonement. This act is not merely a transactional event; it reflects the deep love and willingness of Christ to endure suffering for humanity’s sake. Albert Barnes further elaborates on the necessity of this sacrifice, suggesting that it was due to human sinfulness that Christ had to offer Himself, establishing a new covenant between God and humanity.

Deliverance from Sin and Evil

The term "deliver" in this context indicates not only a rescue but also suggests a sense of liberation. Adam Clarke notes that the phrase implies a complete release from the dominion of sin and the pervasive influence of "this present evil world." This world, characterized by sin and rebellion against God, necessitates an intervention, which Christ provides. The apostle Paul contrasts the believers' former state with their current position of freedom in Christ, a theme that resonates throughout the epistle.

Implications of Deliverance

Deliverance as indicated in Galatians 1:4 points to a holistic salvation that encompasses both the spiritual and existential struggles of believers. Matthew Henry asserts that this deliverance assures believers of their freedom from both the guilt of sin and its subsequent power. Furthermore, the term "this present evil world" signifies the temporal nature of evil, calling attention to the ultimate victory Christ achieves over sin, even in the midst of a corrupted society.

The Divine Will of God

The final segment of this verse reflects a foundational Christian principle: that the work of Christ aligns perfectly with "the will of God and our Father." This connection highlights the intention of God in sending His Son as a means of salvation. Barnes points out that God's will is both sovereign and benevolent, revealing His desire for humanity to be reconciled to Him. Clarke adds that recognizing God's purpose instills in believers a sense of responsibility to live in accordance with His commandments, motivated by gratitude for His saving grace.

Pastoral Considerations

For pastors, Galatians 1:4 serves as a reminder of the heart of pastoral ministry—the proclamation of the gospel and the emphasis on Christ’s atoning work. It challenges pastors to communicate clearly the nature of sin, the necessity of Christ's sacrifice, and the transformation available through Him. Pastoral counseling must incorporate these truths to help congregants fully grasp the depth of their salvation.

Conclusion

The richness of Galatians 1:4 cannot be overstated. It encapsulates the essence of the gospel—Christ’s self-sacrifice, the assurance of deliverance from evil, and the profound alignment with God’s will. As Paul encourages the Galatian believers, so too are contemporary believers invited to embrace this transformative truth. This verse not only serves as a declaration of faith but also as an exhortation for believers to live in light of their redemption.