Apostle Paul wanted the Galatian believers to “be as I; for I as ye” (direct translation of the Greek verse, Gal 4:12), i.e. to be one and the same with him, to imitate him, not for his personal glory but for their sake.

1. One and the same in salvation (Gal 4:12a). Paul was concerned that the Galatians were not truly born-again and wanted them to check and be sure of their salvation. Being so easily persuaded by the false teachers showed that they were not convicted of the truth. Once Paul was saved by Christ, his manner of life and service changed. These were evidences of his salvation; and he was sure that he would receive a crown of righteousness from Christ (2 Tim 4:8). He urged the Galatians to hold on to their salvation and not be swayed by false teachings. Their steadfastness would be evidence that they, like him, have truly believed. We too, like Paul, must be sure of our salvation and be rooted in God’s Word.

2. One and the same in care(Gal 4:12b). Just like John the Baptist who did not mind that Jesus had more disciples than him (John 3:30), Paul was not concerned (“injured,” v12b) about having fewer followers. What he was most concerned about was their salvation. Constrained by the love of Christ, Paul cared for the people even to the point of forgoing his own safety and comfort, and suffering various persecutions in order to share the gospel. He also worked as a tentmaker (Acts 18:3) in order to provide for himself and his fellow workers so that they could continue to minister to the spiritual needs of the people. He did all these because he cared for the people’s spiritual well-being. We too, like Paul, must be constrained by the love of Christ and care for God’s people.

3. One and the same in sacrifice (Gal 4:13). Even before Paul ministered to the people in different cities by sharing the gospel, he had already sacrificed much by travelling (mostly by foot) to those places. In addition, for the gospel’s sake, he was whipped, stoned, imprisoned, maligned, etc. We too, like Paul, must be prepared to sacrifice and serve God courageously, expecting nothing in return from the people we serve. And our service must never be for personal gain or glory. As we serve together, there will be differences; but let us not be quick to murmur and complain. Let our feedback be kind, constructive and with understanding. Those who receive feedback are to receive with grace, always seeking to improve according to God’s will. As members of the same family of God, we are not to attack or destroy one another.

May we be like Paul, certain of our salvation, caring for others and sacrificing for Jesus’ sake.