Our Only Boast
Series: Unchained
April 07, 2019
Frank Foreman
It is a natural for us to be proud about our family, accomplishments, etc. The problem is when we allow pride to lead us to become boastful. The Apostle Paul reminds us that at the end of the day, our boasting should be limited to the cross of Jesus Christ. But why "boast" in the cross? This week's message from Galatians 6:11-18 will help us in our understanding of Paul's words of encouragement and the real life application that makes for us as believers today.
Episode Notes
Galatians 6:11-18, See with what large letters I am writing to you with my own hand. It is those who want to make a good showing in the flesh who would force you to be circumcised, and only in order that they may not be persecuted for the cross of Christ. For even those who are circumcised do not themselves keep the law, but they desire to have you circumcised that they may boast in your flesh. But far be it from me to boast except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, by which the world has been crucified to me, and I to the world. For neither circumcision counts for anything, nor uncircumcision, but a new creation. And as for all who walk by this rule, peace and mercy be upon them, and upon the Israel of God. From now on let no one cause me trouble, for I bear on my body the marks of Jesus. The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit, brothers. Amen.
BIG IDEA:
Boast only in the cross of Jesus!
1. Boasting in the cross glorifies Jesus with every good thing in life
Hebrews 12:1-2, Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight, and sin which clings so closely, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is seated at the right hand of the throne of God.
2. Boasting in the cross happens when I am on the cross.
Galatians 2:20, I have been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me. And the life I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself for me.
3. Boasting in the cross values Christ above all the world has to offer.
1st John 2:15-16, Do not love the world or the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him. For all that is in the world— the desires of the flesh and the desires of the eyes and pride of life —is not from the Father but is from the world.
NEXT STEP:
How can I make less of myself and more of Christ?
John 3:30, He must increase, but I must decrease.
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