I CONFERRED NOT WITH FLESH AND BLOOD

Paul’s purpose in writing this letter was the defence of the gospel he had brought to the Galatians, whilst at the same time reminding them of the liberty into which, as believers, they had been brought. Accordingly, he reminds them that in his time amongst them he didn’t seek to gain followers by currying favour. Neither was the gospel he presented his or any other person’s concoction. He didn’t receive it second-hand; neither orally nor academically - rather it was through divine revelation, v. 12. Only such a gospel can liberate from sin, then and today, because, just as the need remains the same, so too does the divine remedy.

He illustrates the life-changing effect of this gospel from his own experience as he indicates his past life and his activities directed against Christ, as well as his status amongst his own people. In both areas this small man was a colossus. Yet, in both these areas, he was sincere, though he was sincerely wrong in motive.

As Paul cites details of his conversion, he does so in uniquely appreciative language: ‘it pleased God’ - saved at God’s pleasure; ‘who separated me from my mother’s womb’ - separated even before birth; ‘called me by his grace’ -sanctified through unmerited favour. What a conversion! Have you yet been saved, trusting the Saviour? The purpose of Paul’s conversion was that God, who revealed Christ to him on the Damascus road, might firstly reveal Him now in Paul, and then through Paul to others through the preaching of the gospel.

That this might be achieved meant unique communion with God; ‘I conferred not with flesh and blood’. Rather than go to Damascus, Jerusalem, or to the other apostles, Paul spent time alone with the Lord in prayer and instruction. This vital period prepared him for his unique future ministry.

Whatever ministry God has called you and me to, (and each of us has a work) it can only be effectively revealed to us as we spend time alone with God in prayer. Have you a secret place where you have dealings with God? He may be waiting for you today - He may have a work for you to do. Time in prayer is where you will receive the guidance you need.