Contradicting what Is Evident. Galatians 3:3-5.
Dear Pilgrims and Sojourners,
It has been said that what is obvious to some is a mystery to others. Yet we ought to be alert so that we do not miss what has been demonstrated before our eyes.
Regression (v. 3). The Galatians started on the right track. They began in the Spirit. The realm of the Spirit, as we will see later, is what produces in the believer the fruit of the Spirit (5:22-23). This occurs as one is transformed from within and made more Christlike through one’s continued yielding to the Spirit (Ephesians 5:18).
To return to the flesh is to base one’s life on the law and the keeping of it. All this is based on a sinner trying to overcome the sinful nature in one’s own strength. It is a sure recipe for failure. That is why Paul says it is foolish. Without the power of the Spirit to transform, every sinner will do what comes naturally – sin.
Reminder (v. 4). The Galatians had suffered persecution for their faith. Paul now asks, Was the suffering in vain? Paul follows this up with a statement of doubt about the possibility. If a person is truly born again, the effect cannot be reversed. The Galatians are playing in a foreign league because as believers they do not belong to the territory of the law and works. Their home ground is the Spirit and faith.
Reality (v. 5). The Galatians have received the Spirit and are experiencing the miracles of God among them, yet they fail to see the obvious. The Spirit is not supplied by the works of the law, neither is the working of miracles. You get those by faith, so again the unspoken question, What do you need the law for?
Your Loving Pastor Chris.