Bear one another’s burdens, and so you will fulfill the law of Christ. Galatians 6:2 NABRE
Paul’s letter to the community at Galatia has as its main focus the decision that Gentile followers of Jesus do not have to convert to the laws of Judaism. James in the Acts of the Apostles announces at the Council of Jerusalem, it should not be difficult for Gentiles who were turning to God. But, still over time Hebrew followers of Jesus want the Gentiles to fulfill the law when it comes to circumcision, dietary and purity regulations. Paul opposes these requirements and writes about it extensively in this letter to the community. He writes, “For neither circumcision counts for anything, nor uncircumcision, but a new creation.” (Galatians 6:15) In the quoted verse Paul’s comment on a new creation is making a case for fraternal charity. Paul reminds them of the words of Christ, you shall love your neighbor as yourself. It is how people will know we are followers of Jesus, we take Jesus “law” seriously, and observers will know we are Christian by our love for one another. Paul sees those who have become followers of Jesus as family, and thinks we should do all we can to help our brother and sister, even bearing their burdens, while still taking care of our own burdens. Following Jesus brings us into a fraternity that should bring great support and love. Christians should support other Christians first, and always. In Paul’s day seeing how the people of the community were united and loving of one another was an attraction that brought new members into the community.
Today we are called to do the same, carry one another who are united in Christ. It is how people will know we are followers, and it is not a choice.
Do you treat Christians differently? Do you need help with a burden?
Following Jesus brings us into a fraternity that should bring great support and love. Christians should support other Christians first, and always. Click To Tweet#bible #godisgreat #jesus #christianity#dailybibleverse @youversion#BeAnEncourager #burden #family #Paul#everybodyalways #god #jesuschrist#jesussaves #godisgood #dailydevotion#biblestudy #scripture #bibleverse#verseoftheday #pray #prayer #goodnews#loveeachother #godisgreat #bocaraton#youversion #everythingalways