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Book of Galatians - Chapter 1 - Verse 11

1:11
But I certify you, brethren, that the gospel which was preached of me is not after man.

Meaning

Paul, in this verse, is emphasizing the divine origin of the gospel message he preached to the brethren. By stating that the gospel he preached was not based on human teachings or traditions, he is asserting the authority of his message as coming directly from God. Paul wants his audience to understand that the gospel he shared was not a product of his own thoughts or opinions, but rather a divine revelation that he received from Jesus Christ himself. This declaration serves to validate the authenticity and truth of the gospel message, highlighting its importance and significance for believers. By emphasizing the divine nature of the gospel, Paul seeks to distinguish it from any other teachings that may seek to distort or dilute the pure message of salvation through faith in Jesus Christ.

Theological Overview

Paul's statement in this verse emphasizes the divine origin of the gospel he preaches. The word "certify" carries the connotation of solemnly affirming or declaring something to be true. By using this word, Paul underscores the seriousness and validity of his message. The term "brethren" highlights Paul's close bond with his fellow believers, emphasizing that they are part of the same spiritual family. When he says that the gospel he proclaims is "not after man," Paul is making it clear that his message does not originate from human sources or human wisdom. Instead, this gospel is directly from God Himself. This theological interpretation highlights the supernatural nature of the gospel and emphasizes the importance of its divine authorship. Through word studies on terms like "gospel" and "preached," we can gain a deeper understanding of the significance and power of the message that Paul delivered to the early church.

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