“For I would have you know, brothers, that the gospel that was preached by me is not man’s gospel. For I did not receive it from any man, nor was I taught it, but I received it through a revelation of Jesus Christ.” vs11-16

We receive the gospel by revelation. Paul was taught as an Apostle. He saw Jesus alive from the dead. We see Him by faith in the scriptures.

Revelation is the only way people are saved. It's not by human wisdom [1 Cor 2:24]. A supernatural force - the Holy Spirit - quickens us to life. We see what we've never seen, and feel what we've never felt! Sin becomes horrendous, imputed righteousness is glorious and needed, and the power over sin is promised. We see a CONQUERING GOD united in salvation [Matt 28:19]. We see Christ and trust in Him.

No man has seen revelation who's an unbeliever. It's impossible to see Christ and not trust Him. Therefore, ask for revelation, and trust Him for power [Eph 1:15]. There are people who He talks to supernaturally, and we are the most blessed people. Nothing can match our joy, peace, and power. Nothing elevates like knowing God.

Secondly, Paul needed no man's permission to serve God. vs13-17

“But when God, who had set me apart even from my mother’s womb and called me through His grace, was pleased to reveal His Son in me so that I might preach Him among the Gentiles, I did not immediately consult with flesh and blood, nor did I go up to Jerusalem to those who were apostles before me; but I went away to Arabia, and returned once more to Damascus."

His calling did not come from men, but from God Himself. Therefore, he didn't wait for man's approval! We need more of this gumption - men and women who don't care what people say. They're GOING TO SERVE THE LORD, because the calling didn't come from the pastor or the church! Jesus Christ revealed Himself, mercy has been shown, and the child of God can do nothing but serve the Master in fear, trembling, and joy. 2 Cor 5:14-15, “For the love of Christ compels us, because we judge thus: that if One died for all, then all died; and He died for all that those who live should live no longer for themselves, but for Him who died for them and rose again.” We love the Son of God, so we are obedient to Him.

This revelatory life produces results of godliness and zeal. It produces good works. This is what all of God's people have, as we seize it [Titus 2:14]. We must not be fearful. We must not serve man. 1 Cor 7:23, “You were bought at a price; do not become slaves of men." Men will intimidate you, if you let them. They will hold you captive and dominate your conscience, but a freeman serves God and good works prove him.

Finally, God will be glorified because of you. vs18-24

Then after three years I went up to Jerusalem to visit Cephas and remained with him fifteen days. But I saw none of the other apostles except James the Lord’s brother. (In what I am writing to you, before God, I do not lie!) Then I went into the regions of Syria and Cilicia. And I was still unknown in person to the churches of Judea that are in Christ. They only were hearing it said, “He who used to persecute us is now preaching the faith he once tried to destroy.” And they glorified God because of me.

They'll look upon us, and see the fruit of sincere service. They'll see power over sin and zeal. The revelation of Christ produces a changed life that's supernatural. Not only have we experienced a miracle, but we live like it, as new creations, shining the light of Christ. We are broken vessels that glorify Him and blast the trumpet. This is the work of God, and it's the MOST GLORIOUS thing ever seen! Its experience is transforming!

OH, the sweetness of the joy, the power over sin, and the beauty of a God glorifying life, where the person is feasting upon Christ unto good works. Selflessness and peace work together. Love and good deeds correspond. 1 John 3:18, “My little children, let us not love in word or in tongue, but in deed and in truth.” The gospel produces living witnesses to God’s grace and mercy. another witness of the Lord's grace and mercy.