Galatians 1:8
Verse
Context
No Other Gospel
7which is not even a gospel. Evidently some people are troubling you and trying to distort the gospel of Christ.8But even if we or an angel from heaven should preach a gospel contrary to the one we preached to you, let him be under a curse!9As we have said before, so now I say again: If anyone is preaching to you a gospel contrary to the one you received, let him be under a curse!
Sermons





Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
But though we, or an angel - That Gospel which I have already preached to you is the only true Gospel; were I to preach any other, I should incur the curse of God. If your false teachers pretend, as many in early times did, that they received their accounts by the ministry of an angel, let them be accursed; separate them from your company, and have no religious communion with them. Leave them to that God who will show his displeasure against all who corrupt, all who add to, and all who take from the word of his revelation. Let all those who, from the fickleness of their own minds, are ready to favor the reveries of every pretended prophet and prophetess who starts up, consider the awful words of the apostle. As, in the law, the receiver of stolen goods is as bad as the thief; so the encouragers of such pretended revelations are as bad, in the sight of God, as those impostors themselves. What says the word of God to them? Let them be accursed. Reader, lay these things to heart.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
But--however weighty they may seem "who trouble you." Translate as Greek, "Even though we," namely, I and the brethren with me, weighty and many as we are (Gal 1:1-2). The Greek implies a case supposed which never has occurred. angel--in which light ye at first received me (compare Gal 4:14; Co1 13:1), and whose authority is the highest possible next to that of God and Christ. A new revelation, even though seemingly accredited by miracles, is not to be received if it contradict the already existing revelation. For God cannot contradict Himself (Deu 13:1-3; Kg1 13:18; Mat 24:24; Th2 2:9). The Judaizing teachers sheltered themselves under the names of the great apostles, James, John, and Peter: "Do not bring these names up to me, for even if an angel," &c. Not that he means, the apostles really supported the Judaizers: but he wishes to show, when the truth is in question, respect of persons is inadmissible [CHRYSOSTOM]. preach--that is, "should preach." any other gospel . . . than--The Greek expresses not so much "any other gospel different from what we have preached," as, "any gospel BESIDE that which we preached." This distinctly opposes the traditions of the Church of Rome, which are at once besides and against (the Greek includes both ideas) the written Word, our only "attested rule."
John Gill Bible Commentary
But though we, or an angel from heaven,.... The apostle, in order to assert the more strongly the truth, purity, and perfection of the Gospel, as preached by him; and to deter persons from preaching another Gospel, and others from receiving it, supposes a case impossible; and, in such a case, denounces his anathemas. It was not possible, that he, or any of his fellow apostles, who had been so clearly led and so fully established in the Gospel of Christ, and of which they had had such a powerful and comfortable experience in their souls, could ever preach one different from it; nor was it possible that a good angel, one that is in heaven, that always beholds the face of God there, is ever ready to do his will, as he never could be employed by God in publishing another, so he never would; and yet, was it possible or such a thing to be done by such men, or such an angel, he or they would deserve the curse of God and men; their having the highest names, or being of the highest character, and in the highest office and class of beings, would not screen them; and therefore how should the false apostles, and those who followed them, ever think to escape, since even these would not, should they preach any other Gospel unto you than that which we have preached unto you; that is, not only anyone that is contrary to it, but any one besides it; for such was the perfection of the Gospel, as preached by the apostle, who declared the whole counsel of God, and kept back nothing that was profitable to the churches, that no addition could, or might be made unto it: let him be accursed, or "anathema"; see Co1 16:22 which may respect his excommunication out of the church, and his sentence of condemnation by Christ at the last day; and the sense be this, let him be ejected from the ministry of the word, degraded from his office, and cast out of the church; let him be no more a minister, nor a member of it; and let him be abhorred of men, and accursed of Christ; let him hear the awful sentence, "go ye accursed", &c.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
1:8-9 Let God’s curse fall on anyone (literally Let that person be anathema): The Greek word anathema was often used to translate the Hebrew kherem, which in the Old Testament means something dedicated to God for total destruction (see Lev 27:28-29; cp. Rom 9:3; 1 Cor 12:3; 16:22). Paul was invoking God’s strongest wrath on those who distort the Good News (Gal 1:7). • including us or even an angel from heaven: No one is authorized to change the Good News (cp. 2:6-10, 11-14).
Galatians 1:8
No Other Gospel
7which is not even a gospel. Evidently some people are troubling you and trying to distort the gospel of Christ.8But even if we or an angel from heaven should preach a gospel contrary to the one we preached to you, let him be under a curse!9As we have said before, so now I say again: If anyone is preaching to you a gospel contrary to the one you received, let him be under a curse!
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
Seeking the Face of God
By David Wilkerson5.6K52:03PSA 27:4PSA 27:7MAT 11:28GAL 1:8PHP 2:10In this sermon, the preacher encourages the audience not to be afraid because they know how it's going to end. He references the book of Revelation, where it is revealed that Jesus, the King of kings and Lord of lords, will come on a white horse to rule with a rod of iron. He will defeat false prophets and every knee will bow and every tongue will confess that Jesus Christ is Lord. The preacher urges the audience to praise and worship Jesus, the true Redeemer who came to save them from their sins. He concludes by emphasizing the importance of seeking the face of God and invites those who feel drawn by the Holy Spirit to come forward for prayer.
Evangelism of the Jehovah's Witness
By Paul Washer5.1K06:48Jehovah WitnessISA 43:10MAT 28:19JHN 1:1JHN 14:6JHN 20:281CO 15:1GAL 1:8In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of submitting to the authority of Scripture. He highlights the need to accept biblical truths even if they cannot be fully explained. The speaker also shares a personal experience of encountering Jehovah Witnesses and offers helpful strategies for engaging with them. He encourages believers to focus on the core message of the gospel and challenges the Jehovah Witnesses to articulate their understanding of it. Additionally, the speaker addresses the issue of denying the deity of Christ and emphasizes the importance of believing the Bible wholeheartedly, even when certain concepts may be difficult to comprehend.
Help Wanted: An Ambassador
By Warren Wiersbe4.8K39:16JHN 17:15JHN 17:19GAL 1:8In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes that many Christians do not witness because of fear. However, he reminds them that they have the provision and protection of God. Christians have the power of the Holy Spirit within them and the sword of the Spirit before them. The speaker encourages Christians to represent their ruler, God, and to seek to glorify Him in their actions and words. He also highlights the importance of using their time and opportunities wisely, as they will be held accountable for their works. The ultimate purpose of their ministry is reconciliation, bringing people back to God.
The Heart of the Gospel
By Paul Washer2.5K56:36MAT 6:33ROM 3:23ROM 3:25GAL 1:8In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the seriousness of sin and the need for condemnation. He argues that modern preachers often fail to proclaim the gravity of sin and the necessity of repentance. Using the illustration of a judge pardoning a murderer, he highlights the injustice of overlooking sin. The preacher also emphasizes the power and authority of God, who commands the stars, planets, mountains, and seas, yet man rebels against Him. However, through Jesus Christ, the doors that have never opened for any man are thrown open, allowing the King of Glory to enter.
Alignment of New Evangelicals With Apostasy
By Richard Bennett1.9K1:13:13MAT 6:33GAL 1:8EPH 2:8TIT 3:5In this video, the speaker discusses a document that has been circulated by certain evangelical personalities. The document states that justification is not earned by good works, but is a gift from God through His grace. However, the speaker points out that the document also endorses baptismal regeneration, which goes against biblical teachings. The speaker argues that the use of the word "conferred" instead of "imputed" in the document denies the authority of Scripture and promotes Catholic teachings. The video concludes by providing contact information for the organization that is circulating this message and promoting Reformation resources.
Anabaptist History (Day 15) the Munster Tragedy and Melchior Hoffman
By Dean Taylor1.6K1:29:04PRO 3:5MAT 26:391CO 1:10GAL 1:8EPH 6:17COL 2:82TI 3:161JN 4:1This sermon provides a historical overview of the Dutch Mennonites, highlighting the challenges and influences faced by different groups of people in various regions. It emphasizes the importance of judging beliefs and revelations using the Word of God to contend for the faith delivered to the saints. The sermon also delves into the tragic events involving Jan Matthias and Jan van Luyden, showcasing the consequences of straying from biblical truths and relying on personal revelations.
Election and Reprobation #13 Concerning Jacob and Esau
By John Calvin1.4K1:05:15GEN 27:31ISA 55:6MAT 6:33ROM 9:52CO 6:2GAL 1:8In this sermon, John Calvin focuses on the story of Isaac and his submission to the will of God. He emphasizes the importance of maintaining a good reputation and not being ashamed to change one's ways when necessary. Calvin warns against hardening oneself in obstinacy and urges listeners to abstain from doing any harm to those whom God has chosen. He also encourages believers to help and support the children of God, even if there is no worldly reward, as their ultimate reward is in heaven.
Preaching Up a Storm by Ian Paisley
By Compilations1.2K04:30ACT 1:8ROM 12:1GAL 1:8EPH 5:112TI 4:2This sermon emphasizes the need for Christians to be fully committed and passionate in their faith, putting every part of themselves on the altar for God without reservations. It calls for churches that are alive with the power of God, where sinners are convicted and transformed by the Holy Spirit. The message also addresses the darkness present in religious institutions and the importance of standing against false teachings and apostasy, focusing on preaching the true Word of God with boldness and authority.
Gospel
By Stephen Olford1.2K37:35GospelGAL 1:8In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance and uniqueness of the gospel of Christ. He explains that the gospel is the good news of God's redeeming act in Christ, which offers deliverance from sin and the evil world. The preacher highlights that the gospel is a divine provision and cannot be equaled by any man-made religions or philosophies. He also emphasizes that the gospel is a complete and final truth, and there is no need to add or subtract from it. The preacher warns against the confusion and moral bankruptcy of those who claim to have new truths, asserting that the gospel is eternal and objective.
The Law and Faith (Compilation)
By Compilations1.1K09:06CompilationMAT 23:23MRK 7:6MRK 7:13ROM 10:6GAL 1:8GAL 3:13JAS 2:8In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of love as the purpose of God's commandments. He explains that through embracing Christ and the law of love, believers are renewed and no longer live for themselves but for Christ. The preacher also highlights that the commandments containing ordinances, such as "do not taste, do not touch, do not handle," have no profit against the desires of the flesh. Instead, the law of love, which is the fulfillment of the law, is what truly brings profit. The sermon concludes by cautioning against mere religious practices and legalism, emphasizing the righteousness that comes from faith rather than the law.
The Will of God
By George Verwer1.0K1:11:50Will Of GodMAT 6:33JHN 3:16ROM 5:8GAL 1:81TH 5:181PE 5:61JN 2:1In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of seeking and obeying the will of God. He mentions two recommended books for reading, "Life's Sense" by Charles Coulson and "World on the Run" by Michael Green. The speaker also highlights six things to remember when trying to find God's will, including the understanding that God guides different people in different ways and the significance of waiting on Him and gathering facts. He emphasizes the need for a general overall understanding of the Word of God and the importance of testing thoughts that God brings to our minds. Lastly, the speaker mentions the providence of God and how He uses circumstances and people to guide us, including the door pushing method in Operation Mobilization.
Soul Winning - Part 3
By Roy Daniel7041:48:01Soul WinningGEN 1:1GEN 6:5MAT 6:33MAT 28:18JHN 1:1GAL 1:82TI 2:23In this video, the speaker shares a personal encounter with a missionary in Africa who recognized his leadership potential. The missionary encouraged him to leave his current mission and pursue greater things. The speaker then discusses the biblical basis for such a calling and the importance of preaching the gospel to all nations. He also reflects on his own struggles with being lukewarm and shares a story about a divine encounter that motivated him to continue preaching the gospel.
Studies in Isaiah - Part 10
By Harry Ironside68843:30ExpositoryISA 50:1ISA 52:7ISA 57:21GAL 1:8In this sermon, the preacher focuses on the last three verses of Isaiah chapter 52. He begins by discussing the image of beautiful feet upon a mountain, representing the remnant company of the last days who will go out into the world to proclaim the gospel of peace. He emphasizes that while the gospel of the kingdom is distinct, it is not different from the gospel preached today. The preacher then highlights the importance of God's grace to a ruined world and how, in the future, a chosen company will proclaim glad tidings of peace and the imminent return of the Prince of Peace. The sermon concludes by connecting these verses to the messianic prophecy in Isaiah 53, which speaks of the glorious fulfillment in the millennial days.
The Messenger
By William Carrol67839:422SA 12:25DAN 10:21DAN 11:19MAL 3:1JHN 1:23GAL 1:82TI 3:16In this sermon, the preacher begins by describing a vision that the prophet Daniel had. Daniel sees a majestic messenger, clothed in linen and with a golden belt. The preacher draws a parallel between this unique and majestic messenger and the Bible itself, emphasizing that the Bible is not an ordinary book but a holy book that takes us into another realm and allows us to hear from God. The preacher emphasizes the importance of preparing our hearts before reading the Bible and entering into communion with God. He also highlights the awe and reverence that should accompany our interaction with the Word of God, as it is a source of divine wisdom and guidance.
Beware of the Leaven, Who's Truth Is True?
By Shane Idleman61643:45MAT 16:6JHN 14:6ROM 3:23GAL 1:82TI 3:16This sermon emphasizes the importance of being aware of false doctrine, likening it to leaven that subtly infiltrates and distorts the truth. It delves into the deceptive nature of false teachings from various religions like Roman Catholicism, Mormons, and Jehovah Witnesses, highlighting the need to stand firm on the inerrancy of Scripture and salvation through Christ alone. The speaker urges listeners to seek and uphold the truth of God's Word amidst the prevalence of misleading doctrines.
(Through the Bible) Galatians
By Zac Poonen51756:14GAL 1:8GAL 2:4GAL 2:16GAL 3:26GAL 4:7GAL 5:16GAL 5:22GAL 6:1GAL 6:7GAL 6:14This sermon delves into the theme of freedom from the law as discussed in Galatians. It emphasizes the importance of living under the guidance of the Holy Spirit rather than being bound by legalistic rules and regulations. The sermon highlights the need to transition from being like children under the law to becoming mature sons led by the Spirit, focusing on the transformation from living in the flesh to walking in the Spirit. It underscores the significance of recognizing the work of the Holy Spirit in our lives and the necessity of embracing the way of the cross for true freedom and spiritual growth.
And All the Brethren Which Are With Me.
By Martin Luther0GAL 1:8Martin Luther emphasizes the importance of discerning false apostles by highlighting Paul's defense of his ministry against those who seek to discredit it. Paul asserts that his doctrine is divinely true and is supported by the unity of belief among all the brethren with him, even though they are not apostles. This unity in teaching and writing reinforces the authenticity of Paul's message and serves as a powerful rebuttal against the false apostles' accusations.
The Theme of Galatians (1:6-9)
By C.I. Scofield0ROM 3:19ROM 7:12GAL 1:6GAL 1:8EPH 2:7C.I. Scofield preaches about the importance of understanding the true meaning of grace in Christianity. He emphasizes that grace is God's unmerited favor towards us, saving us from our sins and helplessness. Scofield warns against any gospel that mixes grace with works or human effort, stating that salvation is solely through faith in Christ's work. He urges believers to discern and reject any message that distorts the pure message of grace.
2 Peter 2:3
By John Gill0Divine JudgmentFalse TeachersZEC 11:5GAL 1:82PE 2:3JUD 1:4John Gill emphasizes the dangers of false teachers who, driven by covetousness, exploit their followers for personal gain. He warns that these teachers use deceptive and flattering words to introduce harmful doctrines, treating the souls of believers as merchandise. Gill reassures that God's judgment against such deceitful practices is imminent and will not be delayed, as divine justice is always vigilant. He highlights that the condemnation of these false teachers has been predetermined and will come to fruition at the appointed time, serving as a grave reminder of the consequences of leading others astray.
Not Ashamed of the Gospel
By Aaron Hills0ROM 1:16ROM 6:23ROM 10:111CO 1:181CO 1:23GAL 1:8EPH 1:71TH 5:232TI 1:122TI 2:15Aaron Hills preaches about the unashamed power of the Gospel of Christ, emphasizing the moral sublimity of Paul's assertion amidst the corrupt and decadent Roman world. He highlights the essential elements of the Gospel as revealed by Paul, including the Divine, Atoning, and Crucified Christ, salvation conditioned on faith, and the doctrine of Sanctification. Hills addresses the reasons why some may be ashamed of the Gospel, such as rejecting fundamental doctrines, ignoring Gospel conditions, and seeking to dilute its power with human additions. He stresses the importance of not being ashamed of the Gospel, as it brings assurance of God, reveals the worth and immortality of the human soul, and has the power to reform societies and elevate individuals.
The Foot Out of the Snare
By John Toldervy0ISA 28:15MAT 7:152CO 11:14GAL 1:81TI 4:11JN 4:1John Toldervy recounts his journey of being led astray by false teachings and delusions, believing he was the true Christ and receiving revelations from spirits. He describes his obedience to a spirit that led him to extreme practices, such as refraining from food and changing his behavior towards others. Despite experiencing visions and manifestations, he eventually realizes the deception and struggles with conflicting spirits within him, leading to a moment of clarity and a desire to break free from the delusions.
Hold Fast
By J.C. Ryle0Holding Fast to TruthContending for the FaithPRO 19:27MAT 24:24ROM 12:2GAL 1:8EPH 6:111TH 5:212TI 4:2HEB 10:231PE 5:8JUD 1:3J.C. Ryle emphasizes the critical importance of holding fast to the truth of the Gospel amidst the challenges and controversies faced by the Church. He warns against the temptation to seek peace at the expense of truth, urging believers to contend earnestly for their faith and remain vigilant against false teachings. Ryle highlights the historical and ongoing threats to the integrity of the Church, particularly from Roman Catholicism, and calls for unity among Protestants to resist these challenges. He stresses that personal faith in Christ is essential, and encourages individuals to actively engage in preserving the truth of the Gospel. Ultimately, Ryle reassures that those who hold fast to Christ will find peace and eternal life, regardless of external circumstances.
Only Scripture - 3
By Anton Bosch0DEU 4:2MAT 15:6ACT 20:271CO 4:6GAL 1:81TH 5:202TH 2:9REV 22:18Anton Bosch emphasizes the importance of not adding to the Scriptures, highlighting the severe curses pronounced by God, Moses, Jesus, and Paul on those who do so. He warns against the trend of adding traditions, church council decisions, and other extra-biblical teachings that distort the truth. The sermon underscores the need to test all teachings against the Word of God, rejecting anything that cannot be supported by clear and unequivocal Scripture, regardless of how appealing it may sound.
Paul, an Apostle, (Not of Men, Neither by Man, but by Jesus Christ, and God the Father, Who Raised Him From the Dead).
By Martin Luther0GAL 1:8Martin Luther preaches about the conflict in the Galatian churches where Jewish-Christian fanatics distorted Paul's Gospel of justification by faith in Christ, leading to a grudge against the Gospel for condemning worldly religious wisdom. Despite offering salvation and blessings, the Gospel is abhorred by the world. These false apostles undermined Paul's authority by boasting of their credentials and questioning his ministry, a tactic also used by the papacy to deceive believers. In response, Paul boldly defends his apostolic authority and the Gospel he received directly from the Lord Jesus Christ, warning against any deviation from the true Gospel.
The Marks of a True Church
By Francis Turretin0PSA 19:7PRO 29:18ISA 8:20JHN 8:31JHN 10:27ACT 2:421CO 2:15GAL 1:81TI 3:152TI 3:15Francis Turretin discusses the importance of identifying the true visible church by examining its marks, particularly focusing on the truth of doctrine and its conformity with the word of God through pure preaching and lawful administration of sacraments. He emphasizes the necessity of distinguishing the genuine society of pious Christians from heretical groups, highlighting the significance of joining a church that upholds the true teachings of Scripture for salvation. Turretin explains that the marks of the church, such as the preaching of the word and the administration of sacraments, are essential for recognizing the true church and avoiding false assemblies. He argues that the church's purity in doctrine and worship, rooted in Scripture, is a fundamental criterion for discerning the true church from heretical congregations.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
But though we, or an angel - That Gospel which I have already preached to you is the only true Gospel; were I to preach any other, I should incur the curse of God. If your false teachers pretend, as many in early times did, that they received their accounts by the ministry of an angel, let them be accursed; separate them from your company, and have no religious communion with them. Leave them to that God who will show his displeasure against all who corrupt, all who add to, and all who take from the word of his revelation. Let all those who, from the fickleness of their own minds, are ready to favor the reveries of every pretended prophet and prophetess who starts up, consider the awful words of the apostle. As, in the law, the receiver of stolen goods is as bad as the thief; so the encouragers of such pretended revelations are as bad, in the sight of God, as those impostors themselves. What says the word of God to them? Let them be accursed. Reader, lay these things to heart.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
But--however weighty they may seem "who trouble you." Translate as Greek, "Even though we," namely, I and the brethren with me, weighty and many as we are (Gal 1:1-2). The Greek implies a case supposed which never has occurred. angel--in which light ye at first received me (compare Gal 4:14; Co1 13:1), and whose authority is the highest possible next to that of God and Christ. A new revelation, even though seemingly accredited by miracles, is not to be received if it contradict the already existing revelation. For God cannot contradict Himself (Deu 13:1-3; Kg1 13:18; Mat 24:24; Th2 2:9). The Judaizing teachers sheltered themselves under the names of the great apostles, James, John, and Peter: "Do not bring these names up to me, for even if an angel," &c. Not that he means, the apostles really supported the Judaizers: but he wishes to show, when the truth is in question, respect of persons is inadmissible [CHRYSOSTOM]. preach--that is, "should preach." any other gospel . . . than--The Greek expresses not so much "any other gospel different from what we have preached," as, "any gospel BESIDE that which we preached." This distinctly opposes the traditions of the Church of Rome, which are at once besides and against (the Greek includes both ideas) the written Word, our only "attested rule."
John Gill Bible Commentary
But though we, or an angel from heaven,.... The apostle, in order to assert the more strongly the truth, purity, and perfection of the Gospel, as preached by him; and to deter persons from preaching another Gospel, and others from receiving it, supposes a case impossible; and, in such a case, denounces his anathemas. It was not possible, that he, or any of his fellow apostles, who had been so clearly led and so fully established in the Gospel of Christ, and of which they had had such a powerful and comfortable experience in their souls, could ever preach one different from it; nor was it possible that a good angel, one that is in heaven, that always beholds the face of God there, is ever ready to do his will, as he never could be employed by God in publishing another, so he never would; and yet, was it possible or such a thing to be done by such men, or such an angel, he or they would deserve the curse of God and men; their having the highest names, or being of the highest character, and in the highest office and class of beings, would not screen them; and therefore how should the false apostles, and those who followed them, ever think to escape, since even these would not, should they preach any other Gospel unto you than that which we have preached unto you; that is, not only anyone that is contrary to it, but any one besides it; for such was the perfection of the Gospel, as preached by the apostle, who declared the whole counsel of God, and kept back nothing that was profitable to the churches, that no addition could, or might be made unto it: let him be accursed, or "anathema"; see Co1 16:22 which may respect his excommunication out of the church, and his sentence of condemnation by Christ at the last day; and the sense be this, let him be ejected from the ministry of the word, degraded from his office, and cast out of the church; let him be no more a minister, nor a member of it; and let him be abhorred of men, and accursed of Christ; let him hear the awful sentence, "go ye accursed", &c.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
1:8-9 Let God’s curse fall on anyone (literally Let that person be anathema): The Greek word anathema was often used to translate the Hebrew kherem, which in the Old Testament means something dedicated to God for total destruction (see Lev 27:28-29; cp. Rom 9:3; 1 Cor 12:3; 16:22). Paul was invoking God’s strongest wrath on those who distort the Good News (Gal 1:7). • including us or even an angel from heaven: No one is authorized to change the Good News (cp. 2:6-10, 11-14).