We’ve reached Paul’s final words to the churches in Galatia. In a significant moment, Paul takes the pen from his scribe and writes these closing thoughts himself. While he typically used an amanuensis to compose his letters, it was not uncommon for Paul to personally write the final lines as a mark of authenticity (see 2 Thessalonians 3:17). What sets this conclusion apart is both its length and its focus. Unlike his other letters, Paul offers no travel plans or greetings for fellow workers. Instead, with urgency and conviction, he summarizes his message by contrasting the selfish motives of the Judaizers with his own Christ-centered motives.

Before concluding, Paul exposes the false teachers in Galatia. Their motives are not genuine but driven by selfish ambition. Paul reveals the ugly truth: these traveling missionaries enforce circumcision to avoid persecution and to boast in their influence. Their actions are rooted in fear and pride (vv. 12–13).

In contrast, Paul points to his own motive: a singular boast in the cross of Jesus Christ. For Paul, human effort and achievement hold no value compared to the saving work of Christ. His challenge to the Galatians—and to us—is clear: Can you echo his words and say, “Far be it from me to boast except in the cross of our Lord” (v. 14)?

Sermon Outline

1. The Troubling Problem with the Judaizers (vv. 12–13) 2. The Transforming Power of the Cross (vv. 14–18)

Main Point

Because we are made right by God’s grace alone, our boast must be in the cross alone.

Additional Study Questions

1. Why are we naturally inclined to boast in our own efforts and achievements? How does the gospel crush all human boasting?
2. What were the motivations of the Judaizers? In what ways might we also avoid persecution or let pride fuel our efforts in the church?
3. What does Paul mean by being a “new creation” in Galatians 6:15? What other Scriptures express this reality?
4. In verse 17, Paul uses the word “marks” (stigma), which refers to a branding mark on a slave. How does this deepen your understanding of suffering and persecution as a believer? How might it encourage you in your own moments of suffering?
5. How has studying Galatians encouraged, challenged, or convicted you? How has it deepened your love for and desire to follow Jesus?