~ Galatians 1:8
Paul’s words in Galatians 1:8 are startling in their strength. The Galatian believers were being tempted to mix the pure gospel of Christ with human traditions and distortions. Paul doesn’t treat this lightly. He declares that even if he himself or an angel appeared with a different message, it must be rejected. Why? Because there is only one gospel the good news of salvation by grace through faith in Jesus Christ. Anything else is counterfeit.
The Greek word for “contrary” (para) means “alongside, against, or opposed to.” Paul is saying that any so-called gospel that adds to or subtracts from Christ’s finished work is not good news at all. Instead of life, it brings bondage. Instead of freedom, it brings destruction. That’s why Paul uses such strong language: “let him be accursed” in Greek anathema, meaning cut off from God.
So how does this verse connect to us today and even to the biblical health message? The principle is that purity matters. Just as the Galatians were tempted to mix truth with error in doctrine, we can be tempted to mix God’s wisdom with the world’s lies in how we live. The “gospels” of our culture promise life but often lead to harm: “Eat whatever you want, it won’t matter,” “Indulge now, pay later,” “Your body belongs only to you.” These messages sound appealing, but they are contrary to the truth of God’s Word.
The true gospel is about restoration spiritual and physical. Christ came not only to forgive sins but to bring abundant life (John 10:10). That includes freedom from destructive habits, addictions, and lifestyles that steal health and joy. When we embrace false “gospels” whether legalism that makes health a means of salvation, or permissiveness that ignores the body altogether—we lose the balance of grace and holiness.
Paul’s warning reminds us: cling to the true gospel. Christ saves us by grace, and because we are His, we honor Him with our bodies. We don’t pursue health to earn salvation, nor do we dismiss it as unimportant. Instead, we live by the gospel that sets us free, free to serve, free to shine, free to glorify God in body and spirit.
Today, reflect: Are there “false gospels” shaping my choices, voices that promise life but pull me from God’s way? Am I holding fast to Christ alone as my Savior, and letting His truth guide every part of my life, including health? Purity of doctrine and purity of living go hand in hand. The same God who saves us calls us to walk in truth daily.
Prayer: Lord, thank You for the true gospel of Jesus Christ, which sets me free. Guard my heart from false teachings and empty promises. Help me to live in Your truth fully both in faith and in practice so that my life may reflect Your grace and holiness. Amen.
