Galatians 1:2 And all the brothers which are with me, to the churches of Galatia: I. To PASTORS. 1. Don't lord it over your people: they are "brethren." 2. Take them into your confidence: not to confirm your authority, but because they have an interest in your work. 3. Secure their sympathy: it "will be your solace when you are dealing with crafty Judaizers. 4. Carry them with you. You will need them (1) in bodily affliction; (2) in exceptional difficulties. II. To PEOPLE, 1. Your pastor is not your slave but your "brother": love and esteem him. 2. He is the servant of Christ and the Church, and you are his fellowservants: give him sympathy and co-operation. 3. He is your leader: follow him; let him speak not only in his own name but yours, because (1) you have common interests, (2) these interests can only be preserved by unanimity (Philippians 1:27).There is no relationship like that founded on the sanctity of religion. Between you and me that sanctity exists. I stood by your side when you awoke in the dark valley of conviction and owned yourselves lost. I led you by the hand out of the darkness. By your side I have prayed, and my tears have mingled with yours. I have bathed you in the crystal waters of a holy baptism; and when you sang the song of the ransomed captive it filled my heart with a joy as great as your own. Love beginning in such scenes and drawn from so sacred a fountain is not commercial, is not fluctuating. Amid severe toils and not a few anxieties it is a crown of rejoicing to a pastor. (H. W. Beecher.) Parallel Verses KJV: And all the brethren which are with me, unto the churches of Galatia:WEB: and all the brothers who are with me, to the assemblies of Galatia: |
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