Christ-shaped ministry

Paul begs the Galatians to become as he is (Galatians 4:12). In context, this means, “Give up circumcision, the Jewish food laws, observance of days, months and seasons.” Why should they?

The basis for Paul’s exhortation is the fact that he has become as they are: “Become as I, because I also as you.” He became as a Gentile among the Gentiles, as weak among the weak.

Behind this is Paul’s consciousness that his ministry must be conformed to Christ’s. Christ above all says to us: “Become as I, because I also [became] as you.”