But God forbid that I should boast except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, by whom the world has been crucified to me, and I to the world. (15) For in Christ Jesus neither circumcision not uncircumcision avails anything, but a new creation. (16) And as many as walk according to this rule, peace and mercy be upon them, and upon the Israel of God. (17) From now on let no one trouble me for I bear in my body the marks of the Lord Jesus. (18) Brethren, the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit. Amen.
The letter to the Galatians was written by the apostle Paul. In our verses today Paul is writing against false teachers – with some indignation – and defending his apostolic authority as well. He makes it clear that nothing external – circumcision or not – or good works – factor in salvation. His battered body from scourging, stoning, shipwreck, imprisonment, etc., testify to the truth/authenticity of his gospel message. Paul preached the gospel as revealed to him by Jesus Christ and if it is not accepted by unbelievers he asks they trouble him no more. Being a Jew or a Gentile does not prove any advantage when standing before God; the way to God is the cross of Christ.
The Bible is a theological treatise from beginning to end. In our verses Paul is talking about something he considers fundamental – the theological differences between the system of law and the system of grace – grace being the principle that leads to eternal life. He is talking about two different gospels, not two different interpretations. In the legalizers corruption of the gospel man stands before God based on human merit. In Paul’s gospel man stands before God in the realization that man can do nothing to satisfy God but can stand only on the merits of Jesus Christ – here the initial movement comes from the grace of the Spirit who makes the unwilling, willing. The way to God is the way of the cross of Christ. It is faith apart from works. This is rule by which we ought to live – that in faith in Christ, we shall enjoy the favor of God, the forgiveness of sin and peace of conscience. The mercy of God supports the faithful.
Paul’s farewell ends this letter as he begins by wishing the Galatians the grace of God; that by the guidance of the Spirit they remain in Christ, our Savior, who gave him (Paul) the strength and grace to explain this epistle and granted them the grace to hear it; that they (and we) are preserved and strengthened in faith until the day of redemption.