Galatians 1:1 – “Paul, an apostle—sent not from men nor by a man, but by Jesus Christ and God the Father, who raised him from the dead—”
Extended Explanation
Paul begins his letter to the Galatians with a strong emphasis on his divine calling. He makes it clear that his authority as an apostle did not come from human leaders or institutions but directly from Jesus Christ and God the Father. This statement sets the tone for the entire letter, as Paul is about to challenge false teachings that have infiltrated the church. By asserting that his apostleship is from God, he is making it known that his message is not to be questioned or altered by human opinions.
Paul also highlights the resurrection of Jesus, which is central to the Christian faith. The power of God to raise Jesus from the dead is the ultimate confirmation that Paul’s message is true and that salvation comes through faith in Christ, not by works or human effort.
Historical Context
Galatians was written to the churches in the region of Galatia, likely in what is now modern-day Turkey. These churches were struggling with false teachers who were telling believers they needed to follow Jewish laws, such as circumcision, in order to be saved. Paul wrote this letter to refute that teaching and to affirm that salvation comes through faith in Jesus alone.
During this time, the early church was still forming its identity. Many Jewish Christians struggled to understand how the gospel applied to Gentile believers. Some thought that Gentiles needed to adopt Jewish customs to be fully accepted by God. Paul, however, firmly opposed this idea, standing on the truth that Jesus alone is enough.
Theological Implications
This verse affirms that true spiritual authority comes from God, not from human institutions. Paul is saying that his calling as an apostle is not based on human endorsement but on God’s direct commissioning. This reminds us that God is the one who calls and equips His servants, and that His truth is not determined by human traditions.
Paul also makes a clear statement about Jesus Christ being central to the gospel. Since Jesus was raised from the dead, He has the power to save, to call people into ministry, and to define the terms of salvation. No human being, not even the most religious leader, has the right to change the message of salvation by grace through faith.
Literary Analysis
Paul’s introduction follows the typical style of ancient letters, where the writer introduces himself first. However, Paul’s introduction is not just a formality—it carries deep theological meaning. He uses strong language to emphasize that his apostleship is from God. The phrase “sent not from men nor by a man” is a direct challenge to those who were questioning his authority.
He also uses parallelism by mentioning both Jesus Christ and God the Father in the same breath, emphasizing their unity in purpose and power. This strengthens the argument that Paul’s mission is divinely ordained. The mention of Jesus’ resurrection is not just a passing detail—it is a key argument that proves Jesus’ divine nature and the power of God’s salvation.
Biblical Cross-References
- Acts 9:15 – “But the Lord said to Ananias, ‘Go! This man is my chosen instrument to proclaim my name to the Gentiles and their kings and to the people of Israel.’” (Paul’s calling was from God, not from men.)
- Romans 1:1 – “Paul, a servant of Christ Jesus, called to be an apostle and set apart for the gospel of God.” (Paul consistently defends his divine calling.)
- 1 Corinthians 15:3-4 – “For what I received I passed on to you as of first importance: that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, that he was buried, that he was raised on the third day according to the Scriptures.” (Paul always connects the gospel to the resurrection of Jesus.)
- Ephesians 2:8-9 – “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—not by works, so that no one can boast.” (Salvation is through grace, not human efforts.)
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
This verse reminds us that God is the one who calls and equips His people. Just as Paul’s authority came from God, our faith is built on God’s truth, not human ideas. This is important in a world where people often question biblical authority or try to change the message of the gospel.
It also challenges us to be faithful to God’s calling in our lives. We don’t need human validation to serve God; what matters is that we follow His leading. Whether in ministry, work, or daily life, we are accountable to God above all.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
God’s love is evident in how He personally calls people into His work. He chose Paul, a former persecutor of Christians, and transformed him into one of the most influential messengers of the gospel. This shows that God’s love is not based on our past but on His purpose for our future.
The fact that God raised Jesus from the dead also demonstrates His power over sin and death. Because of His love, He provided a way for us to be saved, proving that our salvation is not dependent on our own strength but on His grace.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
Paul’s statement in this verse directly links to Jesus as the risen Lord. If Jesus had not been raised from the dead, Paul would have no authority to preach the gospel. But since Jesus conquered death, His message is true, and Paul’s mission is valid.
Jesus also personally called Paul to be His apostle (Acts 9:3-6). This encounter changed Paul’s life forever. Paul’s authority comes from Jesus, reminding us that our faith is rooted in a living Savior, not just in religious traditions.
Additionally, Paul’s emphasis on Jesus being raised from the dead echoes the foundation of Christian hope. In 1 Corinthians 15:17, Paul writes, “And if Christ has not been raised, your faith is futile; you are still in your sins.” This verse in Galatians affirms that Jesus’ resurrection is at the core of our salvation.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- Why is it important that Paul’s authority came from God rather than from men?
- How does this verse challenge us to stand firm in biblical truth, even when others try to distort it?
- What does Paul’s transformation from a persecutor to an apostle teach us about God’s grace?
- How does Jesus’ resurrection impact your personal faith today?
- In what ways can you be more faithful in following God’s calling in your life?