Galatians 1:9 “As we said before, so I now say again: If anyone is preaching to you a gospel different from or contrary to that which you received (from us), let him be accursed”.

This particular verse is an eye opener. It’s a warning. It’s like a label on a container or product that warns the user of significant and sometimes potentially fatal health risks. It’s so important that the Apostle Paul mentioned it two times in his letter to the Galatians. What could be so hazardous and this important? Mixing the gospel of grace with the law. Hearing a message mixed with self-effort and God’s unmerited favor. Oh, you can mix the two if you want to, but there are significant risks or consequences to your health, relationships, finances, peace of mind, emotions…shall I go on?

“If anyone is preaching to you a gospel different from or contrary to that which you received (from us), let him be accursed”. Accursed is a strong word. It means to be doomed, condemned, wretched. We need to be careful that we’re not receiving a “works” gospel, which is a gospel that depends on us and not on Jesus. That’s what happened here. The Galatians received the grace of Christ but then the Jews tried to get them to do mix it with some law. It doesn’t work. Take heed to Paul’s warning. “Read the label” on the messages you are hearing. Are they mixed with law and grace? If yes, they might be hazardous to your health and well-being.