making enemies, and Children of God

Galatians 4:12-20 (ESV)
Brothers, I entreat you, become as I am, for I also have become as you are. You did me no wrong. [13] You know it was because of a bodily ailment that I preached the gospel to you at first, [14] and though my condition was a trial to you, you did not scorn or despise me, but received me as an angel of God, as Christ Jesus. [15] What then has become of the blessing you felt? For I testify to you that, if possible, you would have gouged out your eyes and given them to me. [16] Have I then become your enemy by telling you the truth? [17] They make much of you, but for no good purpose. They want to shut you out, that you may make much of them. [18] It is always good to be made much of for a good purpose, and not only when I am present with you, [19] my little children, for whom I am again in the anguish of childbirth until Christ is formed in you! [20] I wish I could be present with you now and change my tone, for I am perplexed about you.


Have I then become your enemy by telling you the truth? It is easy to make enemies by speaking the truth. Many people can’t hear the Gospel. They won’t hear it. They are comfortable with the law. They like being told what to do, what not to do. That may not seem like it is the case but it is actually true. The one thing I have noticed since becoming a pastor is people will listen to almost anything but the Gospel. Speaking the Gospel and defending it breeds enemies. But it also breeds Children of God, and forms Christ in them. Therefore it can not be neglected.