Galatians 1:11-12
But I certify you, brethren, that the gospel which was preached of me is not after man. For I neither received it of man, neither was I taught it, but by the revelation of Jesus Christ.
You've seen it. Men beating on their chests like a silverback gorilla yelling, "I'm the man!" Men are constantly bragging on themselves. This kind of pride has even spilled over into our pulpits, and it should have no place in the pulpit. Preachers, Pastors, Sunday School teachers, etc... are on this move.
This movement is not new. It was around in the early church days as well. At one point church members were choosing who they would rather listen to. Paul said that some of you say I'm of Paul, while others say I'm of Peter and Apollos. Imagine the differences in these men. One with great education and speech. One with great wisdom and the mystery of the Gospel. And the other, a fisherman who held the keys to the church. Wow! I can see how easy it would be to get caught up in following one or the other. I can easily see it because it happens today. Some choose Billy Graham, while others choose Billy Sunday. Some choose education while others choose entertainers. Some choose the loud screamer and others the quiet one.
All serve a purpose! You see, if men point to their wisdom and abilities then we are missing it. If they point to their growth and number system, then we are missing it. If they depend more on their abilities than the almighty, then they are missing it. If we lean upon our plans and programs, then we will miss it! Or more so, we will miss Him.
Paul said that the Gospel didn't come from "a" man, but "the" man. Jesus Christ is that man and no one will ever fill His shoes. Paul says he didn't receive it from man, or was taught it from man, but by Jesus Christ "The Man".
