4:18 It is always good to be made much of for a good purpose, and not only when I am present with you, The Holy Bible: English Standard Version. (2001). Wheaton: Standard Bible Society.
It feels good to be admired and praised by someone. But be honest, have you ever wondered what they really say about you when you’re not around? This is essentially what Paul is saying in Galatians 4:18.
Every person desire affirmation. It is one thing to be affirmed for our character, but it is another to be affirmed for our conviction. Paul had taken a strong stand for the Gospel, even though it meant forsaking his former life and being subject to persecution. In 4:18 Paul is addressing his desire to be affirmed for the Gospel, and not simply because he is a nice guy. This is not a matter of self esteem. This is an issue of maintaining integrity for the Gospel.
Paul desires the church of Galatia to be passionate for the Gospel while he is absent, as much as when he is present. This is every teacher’s desire. When pupils apply what they have learned after they leave, then true success can be measured by transformation.
As a modern day application, it is easy to sit in church and praise God. That is important. What is equally important is our faithfulness to live out the Gospel in the workplace and in our homes. It is outside the walls of the church that the Gospel can penetrate culture.
True, everyone desires affirmation. The ultimate affirmation for a teacher is when the subject matter is applied outside of class. We have the power of the Gospel in our hearts. May we allow it to change our heart and not just our minds, so that we can apply the truth to a dying world.
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