The problem we all face as Christians is the battle with not aligning ourselves with the work of Christ on the cross and also aligning with the work of the Spirit in our lives.
For the Apostle Paul it was incredulous to think that any Christian would lose that battle. These Galatians considered circumcision more trustworthy than the cross. So he doesn’t pull his punches.
“Are you so foolish?” Galatians 3 v 3.
Are you going to continue this craziness? (Message) How can you be so stupid? (CEV)
The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge, but fools despise wisdom and instruction. Proverbs 1 v 7
Fools show their annoyance at once, but the prudent overlook an insult. Proverbs 12 v 16
A fool’s mouth lashes out with pride, but the lips of the wise protect them. Proverbs 14 v 3
Fools find no pleasure in understanding but delight in airing their own opinions. Proverbs 18 v 2.
I could continue. The Proverbs especially are full of speaking about fools.
But you don’t need a theological degree or know the whole Bible to spot a fool.
When the body of Christ hurt the body of Christ they are foolish.
When the followers of Jesus follow their own desires they are foolish.
When the saved have been convinced they are not they are foolish.
The foolish are forever with us.
They cannot be trusted. They are unteachable. They are quick to react. They are full of pride and arrogance. They always have their opinion to give. Humility is hard to find.
These Galatians are under a spell.
No one wants to hear that they are a fool. And done in anger it is wrong to do so. But with love and care yes let’s call it out.
If you see your friend walking a wrong path then your love will cause you to wake them up. “Open your eyes, don’t be an idiot, look at the cross of Christ, and understand the Spirit within you!” That is our cry. Are you so foolish?
Missions Paul 