The Israel of God

Paul's closing in his epistle to the Galatians has been a debate which has caused a lot of controversy throughout the years. However, there is no doubt that it was most controversial to it's original audience. Consider the following:

"For in Christ Jesus neither circumcision availeth any thing, nor uncircumcision, but a new creature. And as many as walk according to this rule, peace be on them, and mercy, and upon the Israel of God." (Galatians 6:15-16)

Paul was not confused when he wrote this. He knew exactly what he was saying. He is making an open declaration that those who are saved by grace through faith in Jesus Christ are indeed the true Israel of God. And in this statement the rejection of national Israel is implied. But why should he make such a statement anyway?

Well, if you recall, Paul has already made several similar arguments which all lead up to this thesis. He has already demonstrated that neither circumcision, nor law, nor genealogy are qualifications to secure the true chosen, adopted children of God. Lets review each of these quickly to gain a better understanding.

1. First, he reproves the need to be circumcised. Circumcision is the sign of the covenant God made with man. In the Jewish tradition, all true children of God [males] must be circumcised to demonstrate their fidelity. This is very similar to the western tradition of a man and woman wearing wedding rings when they are married. Circumcision was required by God's law. To not be circumcised was an abomination in the Jewish religion.

2. Then he finds fault with the efficacy of God's law. He demonstrates that the law was never powerful enough to save anyone. If it was then there surely would have been a law to provide for it. Therefore, Paul tells us the law is our school master always pointing us to the Savior who would come: Jesus Christ.

3. Thirdly, he demonstrates error with those who claim to be the descendants of Abraham. God promised that Abraham's descendants would inherit the blessings of the covenant, but Paul conditions that with faith in Jesus Christ. He argues and proves that those who believe in Jesus by faith are the true descendants of Abraham to whom the promises were spoken.

Circumcision, God's law, and genealogy were all signs of the true Israel. For Paul to reprove them was considered a national assault on the Jewish heritage and faith. But Paul is not assaulting or discounting them. He is demonstrating over and over that in Christ each of these things are fulfilled. Therefore, all that Israel is looking to in circumcision, God's law, and genealogy are now fulfilled and found in Christ alone.

Paul is telling us there are two Israels: One who trusts in circumcision, God's law, and genealogy; and one who trusts in Jesus Christ. One is physical, one is spiritual. One is the type, and one is the anti-type. One is rejected, and one is accepted.

Salvation in Jesus Christ is not a matter of what we do or don't do. It's not a checklist to follow or a carte blanche for a new life. Salvation in Jesus Christ a gift given by God to men based purely on the person and work of Jesus Christ and applied to us by grace through faith according to the mercies of God alone.

To you who are the called, chosen, Israel of God: May his peace and mercy be upon you all the days of your life and, "the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit. Amen." (Galatians 6:18)

With the greatest respect, honor, and love for the holy children of Jesus Christ,

Jay Silvas