DON’T BE A FOOL
Galatians 3:1-7
The word “fool” can be a noun and a verb. As a noun, it refers to a person who lacks good judgement or sense, or someone who acts unwisely. As a verb, it means to spend time idly, to meddle thoughtlessly or to speak or act in fun. Whether as a noun or verb, when used, the word fool is not complimentary. The Lord Jesus even said we should not use the word to refer to one another. “But I say unto you. . . whosoever shall say, Thou fool shall be in danger of hell fire” (Matthew 5:22).
It is that serious. The Lord said this because biblically, being a fool has deep connotations. Depending on how it is used, the word has complex meanings. Take a look at our text today. The Galatians were referred to as “foolish”. What was their situation to warrant such condemnation? They received the gospel on a platter of faith in the finished works of Christ. Yet at the first moment, they were led astray by preachers of the law. They now believed that their justification would come by obeying Jewish traditions whereas the blood of Christ had settled all such.
Going by this, we can safely define the fool as one who is easily misled. A fool can be manipulated or easily persuaded to follow false teachings or wicked paths. He lacks conviction in his faith walk with the Lord. He has no in-depth knowledge of the Word. Therefore, he can easily be “tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine” (Ephesians 4:14). Such a believer knows not exactly what he believes or why. So it is easy for anyone to sway him away from the truth.
Beloved, you must not be a fool, Be a wise Christian. Know who you believe. Follow the Lord and his servants. Measure everything with the barometer of the scriptures. Let the Holy Spirit have his way in your understanding. Beware of corrupters on social media! Many have been led astray by online preachers attacking biblical truths and principles. It is foolish to set aside age-old and sound biblical doctrines just because you listened to someone (who may not even be a believer) attack them on facebook.
In the next few days, we shall search the scriptures together to look at the various examples of the word “fool” A proper understanding will tell us not to be a fool.
MEDITATION: 1 Corinthian 4:15-16.
