The Faith of Christ

For several decades one phrase in the Greek New Testament has been especially challenging for translators: pistis Christou. In English it’s usually rendered as “faith in Christ.” New Testament Pistis Christou and its variations occur seven times in the New Testament. Since one reference is not relevant (Rom 3:26), here are the six key references. … Read more

Astonishment (Galatians 1:6-10)

After the introduction to the Galatians, Paul writes: 6 I am astonished that you are so quickly deserting the one who called you to live in the grace of Christ and are turning to a different gospel— 7 which is really no gospel at all. Evidently some people are throwing you into confusion and are trying to pervert the gospel of … Read more

Introduction (Galatians 1:1-4)

I’ve recently started reading Galatians and I’ve been struck with its persuasive power. Paul, an apostle—sent not from men nor by a man, but by Jesus Christ and God the Father, who raised him from the dead— 2 and all the brothers and sisters with me, To the churches in Galatia: 3 Grace and peace to you from God our Father … Read more

Flesh vs. Spirit: Galatians 5

According to Paul, a battle rages between the flesh and the Spirit. In the original Greek the word “flesh” is sarx; the word Spirit is pneuma and it refers to God’s Holy Spirit. The word “flesh” is the most commonly used word to translate sarx. It is used in the NIV, NRSV, ESV, HCSB and … Read more