Until Christ be formed in you
Galatians 4:18 But it is good to be zealously affected always in a good thing, and not only when I am present with you. 4:19 My little children, of whom I travail in birth again until Christ be formed in you, 4:20 I desire to be present with you now, and to change my voice; for I stand in doubt of you.
Apostle Paul expresses his deep concern and affection for the believers, describing his spiritual labor as akin to the pains of childbirth. His ultimate goal for them is strikingly clear: "until Christ be formed in you."
He begins by affirming the value of zeal. Zeal, or passionate enthusiasm, is commendable when it is directed toward a noble cause. Yet, the Galatians' zeal had been misdirected by false teachers. They had been led astray from the pure gospel that Paul had taught them.
We must examine our own zeal. Are we passionate about the right things? Is our zeal anchored in the truth of the gospel, or have we allowed ourselves to be swayed by other teachings or pursuits that distract us from Christ? True zeal is consistent, persistent, and aligned with God’s purposes.
Paul’s language in verse 19 is deeply emotional and powerful. He likens his efforts to a mother in labor, enduring pain until the desired outcome is achieved. This underscores the intensity of his concern and the depth of his commitment to the spiritual formation of the Galatians.
Paul’s example challenges us to reflect on our own spiritual journey and our role in the spiritual growth of others. Are we willing to invest deeply, to endure discomfort and sacrifice, for the sake of Christ being formed in us and in those around us? Spiritual formation is a process that requires patience, perseverance, and love.
The phrase "until Christ is formed in you" is the heart of Paul’s message. It speaks to the transformative process where the character, values, and priorities of Jesus become evident in our lives. This is not a superficial change but a profound internal transformation.
This transformation is the essence of the Christian life. It is not merely about following rules or rituals but becoming more like Christ in our thoughts, actions, and relationships. It is a lifelong journey of surrendering to the Holy Spirit, allowing Him to mold and shape us into the image of Christ.
In verse 20, Paul expresses his bafflement and wish to be present with the Galatians to guide them more directly. His concern is not merely doctrinal but personal and pastoral. He desires to see them thrive spiritually and to avoid the pitfalls of false teachings.
We too should have a genuine concern for one another's spiritual well-being. We should strive to support, encourage, and correct each other in love, always pointing each other back to Christ. Community and accountability are vital in our journey of spiritual formation.
In conclusion, We are called to be zealous for good, to endure in our spiritual labor, and most importantly, to allow Christ to be formed in us. This transformation is the goal of our faith and the evidence of our discipleship.
God bless you.
Prayer key:
1. Lord, thank you for the blessing of your word today in Jesus Christ name.
2. Lord, we pray for the Holy Spirit to work in us, and transform us from the inside out.
3. Help is Lord that our lives reflect the character of Christ, bringing glory to God and drawing others to Him in Jesus Christ name.
4. Thank you Lord for answered prayers in Jesus Christ name. Amen.