A Pastor's Motive

Galatians 4:12-20

Paul recalls how his first visit to Galatia had been due to a physical illness that had come on him. It is not clear that this is the same as the “thorn in the flesh” referred to in 2 Corinthians 12:7, although it could be. Apparently, whatever it was, it had the potential to be off-putting to the Galatians; either as unsightly or infectious. Still, they welcomed him as a messenger from heaven.

What has happened to that spirit of welcome toward him, Paul wants to know. The answer to that may come within the warning that follows. Paul goes on to warn them against the designs of those who are seeking to influence them, and who already have (verses 17-18). The suggestion is that they are more interested in adding to their sphere of influence than they are in the well-being of the Galatians.

He asks if he must go through something like childbirth in order to renew their life relying only on the grace of God in Christ. The comment about wishing he could be with them and change his tone reveals something of the extent of Paul’s exasperation. But I don’t get that this is personal in the sense of offense at his time and energy with them having to be repeated and doubled in order to get them back to where there were. No, it is clearly a concern for their own well-being in holding to a true path in Christ, and that, as shepherd-pastor, he is watching out for danger to the spiritual well-being of this flock.

Prayer:
God, preserve my leadership from being about making what I do – or any of us do - bear fruit so we see the results of our labours, and be all about faithfulness in our walk together in Way who is Christ. Amen.