Galatians (Part 4)
Christ Plus Nothing: Galatians Part 4
This Sunday, we continued our series Christ Plus Nothing, diving into Galatians 2:1-10 and exploring what it means to stand firm in the true gospel. Here’s a recap of Pastor John’s message:
Unity, Not Uniformity
Paul’s heart was for unity in the church—not uniformity.
Uniformity demands everyone look, act, and think the same.
Unity means standing together in love and truth, even if we’re different.
“Uniformity says, Be like me. Unity says, Let’s be like Jesus together.”
Paul’s Battle Against “Christ Plus…”
Paul fought fiercely against adding anything to Jesus for salvation. In his day, religious leaders insisted on:
Jesus plus circumcision
Jesus plus Jewish law
Jesus plus traditions
Today, we’re tempted by modern versions:
Jesus plus political figures
Jesus plus moral performance
Jesus plus cultural trends
Jesus plus church activities
The truth is simple:
Christ plus nothing. Nothing else saves.
Three Key Categories
Paul teaches us to discern between:
✅ Non-Negotiables — core truths worth dying for (like salvation by grace, Jesus’ deity, resurrection)
✅ House Rules — practices specific to a church community (worship style, communion frequency, leadership structure)
✅ Personal Convictions — individual choices we can’t impose on others (dating standards, drinking, entertainment)
The Galatian church confused these and made personal convictions into gospel requirements. We can’t make the same mistake.
Why This Matters
Paul’s passion for gospel clarity wasn’t just theology—it was mission. Disunity distracts the church from reaching people who desperately need hope.
“Religion binds. Grace brings freedom.”
When we stand united in the gospel, we’re free to love, serve, and share Jesus with a world that needs Him.
Communion Reminder
Every week, we share communion at Pacific Point Church as a way to adjust our hearts and remember:
Jesus’ body, broken for us
His blood that sets us free
Final Encouragement
Let’s be a church that:
Elevates the gospel over personal preferences
Guards unity
Walks in freedom and grace
Because at the end of the day, it’s truly Christ plus nothing.