Galatians 1:1-24.  I was kind of impressed with how many times Paul tells us that what he is doing is not because of the influence of men.  Twice in verse 1, 3 times in verse 10, once in verse 11, twice in verse 12, once in each of verses 16 and 17.  Considering what was going on (Read the “Introduction to Galatians” page if you didn’t already) that seems pretty important.  On the other hand we do see that he went to see Peter (Cephas) and James early on in his ministry.  We also know that he was mentored by Barnabas (See the “Paul:  ‘Sent one to the Gentiles'” page for that story) and according to this part of Galatians his ministry and message were given to him directly by Jesus.  In 1 Corinthians 15 Paul describes what he means by the word Gospel and he tells us that it is according to the Scriptures.  So I guess we see that we need to rely on the Bible for what we believe and teach and we need to be careful not to give up in the face of opposition.  Paul talked about people distorting the Gospel or good news.  The word distorted or perverted means to turn something into it’s opposite.  Salvation is a gift the opposite would be something we earn, in this case by following religious laws.  It’s pretty scary that twice Paul says that if someone comes along and does this that they should be accursed.  That word means to “set aside”.  The word was used for something that was dedicated to a god and was set aside to be destroyed.  Salvation is a gift from God that is in no way earned, Jesus gave Himself for our sin so he could deliver us.Thank ou God for the free gift of salvation.  Help me never distort your gift and help me not run from you when people disapprove.