The Romans were known for their brutality to those they conquered, but they also imposed harsh penalties upon miscreants in their own ranks. Topping the list was “fustuarium,” a particular method of capital punishment reserved for soldiers who deserted their units. This was administered by the deserter’s own legion; they would fall upon the man and beat him to death with a cudgel.

I am astonished that you are so quickly deserting him who called you in the grace of Christ.

Galatians 1:6

This savagery was no doubt on the mind of the apostle Paul when he wrote with astonishment that the Galatian Christians were blithely deserting the faith for false gospels. Unlike the Romans, whose justice was meted out with unwavering ruthlessness, Christ offered grace and mercy to all. But Paul cautioned that forsaking the true gospel was no small matter, and that those who preached deceit would be cursed.

Today in America, “false gospels” are epidemic – and producing great clouds of confusion and tumult. But today, pray that you may be an example and testimony to the love of the One, the Only, Jesus to those who need to trust Him as Lord. This is your duty as a soldier of Christ!

Recommended Reading: Galatians 1:6-17