Legalism -vs- Liberty

Today we finish reading Acts 13. We're following Paul on his first missionary journey. They travel about 100 miles inland to Antioch. This is not the same Antioch mentioned earlier. There were seven different cities named Antioch in that day. This Antioch was located in the Galatia region (modern Turkey). As we follow Paul, we'll notice that he goes to strategic cities, plants churches and then moves on. Then, from that urban area, the Gospel will spread out into the rural areas. Also we'll notice that Paul, whenever it was possible, ministered in the synagogue to the Jews first. Why? I thought he was called by God to go the the Gentiles. He was, but Paul had a burden for his people (Rom.9:1-5, 10:1). But not only that. It was God's plan 'to the Jew first'. (see Acts 13:46, Matt.10:5-6; 15:24; Luke 24:47; Rom.1:16). You see, it was not a matter of preference. It was a matter of precedence.
Now, how did these Jews react to the Gospel? Most rejected it (see v.45-50), but some received it (see 42-43). And for these that received the Gospel in Acts 13, we must remember that these are Jews in the Galatia region. Paul would have to write a letter (Galatians) to them in a few years. Why? Because they became legalist. They started adding rules and requirements to those who were being saved. Rules such as circumcision and dietary laws, were imposed by them. Paul would write Galatians, to this same group of Jewish believers, and say, 'No, we're free in Christ.' Remember, he urged them to stick to what they started with--grace (v.43). But they turned from grace back to the law.
Legalism is still alive and well in the church today. "Why is she wearing that to church?", "Why does he raise his hands in church?" "Why is the music so loud?" "Don't they know how to act in God's house?" ...and on goes the legalistic remarks. Legalist want to impose their miserable attitudes onto those who are excited about their salvation. Legalist come to church to see who they can rebuke and who they can correct. Legalist have no joy in their salvation. An excited Christian once sat in church by a sour pus legalist. After the service, the legalist turned to him and said, "Give it time, and you'll get over it." To that I say, "yes, if they continue sitting by you, they'll get over it." But when God truly saves you, you never get over it. I find it ironic that these same Jewish believers, that Paul would address later in Galatians, had no joy in their salvation, yet notice the last verse in our reading today (13:52). The disciples were filled with joy and the Holy Spirit. HMMM! No joy--no Holy Spirit. Have you lost the joy of your salvation? If so find out why. If you've never had it, receive Christ today. You'll be forever glad you did!