When the Feeling Outruns the Word
“But though we, or an angel from heaven, preach any other gospel unto you than that which we have preached unto you, let him be accursed.”Galatians 1:8 (KJV)
Christmas is full of moving moments. The candles, the music, the familiar songs. Some of us feel closer to God this week than any other. That is a gift. But feelings can also fool us.
A song can stir the heart and still say nothing about the cross. A service can feel wonderful and leave Christ out of it. Being moved isn’t the same as being taught.
Paul cared more about the content than the atmosphere. “But though we, or an angel from heaven, preach any other gospel unto you than that which we have preached unto you, let him be accursed.” Strong words. And he told the Corinthians, “I determined not to know any thing among you, save Jesus Christ, and him crucified.”
The day after Christmas is a good day to ask: what did I actually hear? The manger matters because of the cross. Let your feelings follow the truth, and not the other way around.
Read it yourself
Read Galatians 1:6–12. Where does Paul say he received the gospel he preached?
Do your feelings about God come from what is true about him, or from the atmosphere around you?
Lord, thank you for moments that move my heart. Keep my heart anchored to the truth of Christ crucified. Amen.