READ: Gal. 4:12b–16: … What then was the blessing you enjoyed? …
Paul does not want unnecessary distance between himself and the Galatians. He desires to maintain the good relationship they once shared. He is not rejecting the congregation, nor does he take personally the criticism of the Judaizers. Though their criticism is hostile, it is aimed at his office and message, not his person.
Paul is careful to prevent this criticism from being misinterpreted as personal animosity.
He reminds them of the good times they had in the past—especially when he first brought them the gospel.
At that time, he apparently suffered from a visible illness. He came to them with a weak body, yet he brought them the gospel. They received him warmly and with compassion. Paul found their affection so remarkable that he says they welcomed him as an angel, even as Christ Jesus Himself.
This was clearly because of the glorious message he preached, which they received with joy—the message of forgiveness of sins and eternal life through the atoning work of Jesus Christ as their Savior. As former pagans who had not known God or Jesus, they were offered an entirely new life, a life of grace with and for their Redeemer. Their fear of idols disappeared, and the Holy Spirit began to work in them.
Paul now wants them to recall this clearly. Verse 15: “What then was your blessing?” Where has that wonderful sense of joy and gratitude gone? The conviction that your life has been transformed from sorrow to joy in the Lord?
Paul brings up another memory: You were so thankful that you would have done anything for me, especially because of my illness (v.15b). What has become of that now? Have I turned from a beloved friend, even an “angel,” into an enemy?
Do we know the joy that the Galatians once had?
Sing: Ps. 40:7