Devotion 2: The Danger of Adding to the Gospel
Scripture Reading: Galatians 5:2-4 (ESV)
“Look: I, Paul, say to you that if you accept circumcision, Christ will be of no advantage to you. I testify again to every man who accepts circumcision that he is obligated to keep the whole law. You are severed from Christ, you who would be justified by the law; you have fallen away from grace.”
Reflection:
Paul’s warning to the Galatians cuts to the core: if you rely on the law to be justified, you’re cutting yourself off from Christ. The false teachers in Galatia pushed circumcision as a necessary addition to faith, but Paul says this mindset nullifies the gospel. If you think keeping rules makes you right with God, you’re obligated to keep every single one—perfectly. And no one can do that! The beauty of the gospel is that Jesus kept the law perfectly for us, and His righteousness is credited to us by faith. When we add anything to Jesus—whether it’s rituals, good works, or self-righteousness—we lose sight of the grace that saves. Today, let’s reject any teaching that says “Jesus plus something” saves us. It’s Jesus, period. That’s the gospel that justifies.
Application:
Reflect on any “extras” you might be tempted to add to your faith—maybe it’s thinking you’re more spiritual because of your Bible reading or volunteering. While these are good, they don’t save you. Spend a moment thanking God that salvation is by faith alone, and ask Him to keep your heart fixed on Christ’s sufficiency.
Prayer:
Heavenly Father, I praise You for the simple, powerful truth of the gospel. Guard my heart against legalism that would add to Your Son’s perfect work. Let me rest in Jesus alone, knowing His grace is enough to justify me. Fill me with Your Spirit to live for Your glory. Amen.