Galatians 3:1 - O foolish Galatians!

3:1

One of the common sayings in Christian teaching is that we mustn't base theology on experience, and there is a lot of truth in this. And today there is far too much emphasis on feelings at the expense of what God’s word clearly says, and indeed at the expense of common sense. However, we also have to be careful, for the Bible greatly values experience. Note how many theological arguments in the New Testament involve quotes from the Psalms, this is especially true of Hebrews one of the most deeply theological letters in the Bible. And here Paul is going to bring in some deep theology, but he begins by pointing to the experience of the Galatians. Experience viewed in the light of God’s word is one of the most useful theological tools that we have.

We find Paul again pulling no punches. “Oh foolish Galatians”. The decision some of them were making, or thinking of making, was plain stupid. It would do them no good at all, as well as being completely contrary to the gospel. Theologically bad decisions are bad! “Who has bewitched you”, or “who has fascinated you”. Some ideas had been portrayed before their eyes and these ideas had captivated their minds. But when the gospel was presented to them Christ was clearly portrayed as crucified. This was the only basis for their justification, and it is the only basis for our justification.