God's Message to Us in Galatians: The Just Shall Live by Faith

Abstract

W.F. Beitz’s essay is a passionate, sweeping meditation on the central message of Galatians: “The just shall live by faith.” Written in a deeply personal and prophetic tone, Beitz critiques the tendency of Christians—pastors, congregations, and synods alike—to drift from Spirit-led faith into lifeless formalism, legalism, and ritualism. He warns against substituting law for Gospel, stressing that true Christian life flows from heartfelt repentance and a living relationship with Christ, not from doctrinal correctness or institutional loyalty. Drawing on Scripture, Luther, and vivid illustrations, Beitz calls for a return to experiential, Spirit-filled Christianity rooted in the mercy of God. He challenges readers to examine their faith, teaching, and ministry practices, urging them to abandon empty forms and embrace the transformative power of grace. The essay culminates in a call to live by faith alone, echoing the Reformation’s core conviction and applying it urgently to the church of his day. —Generated by Microsoft Copilot (GPT-4)