Christian Camp Experience [Galatians 4:11-20]

[11] I am fearful for you, that perhaps my labor for you has been wasted. [12] I beg you, brothers: become like me, for I also became like you. You have not wronged me; [13] you know that previously I preached the gospel to you in physical weakness, [14] and though my physical condition was a trial for you, you did not despise or reject me. On the contrary, you received me as an angel of God, as Christ Jesus Himself. [15] What happened to this blessedness of yours? For I testify to you that, if possible, you would have torn out your eyes and given them to me. [16] Have I now become your enemy by telling you the truth? [17] They are enthusiastic about you, but not for any good. Instead, they want to isolate you so you will be enthusiastic about them. [18] Now it is always good to be enthusiastic about good--and not just when I am with you. [19] My children, again I am in the pains of childbirth for you until Christ is formed in you. [20] I'd like to be with you right now and change my tone of voice, because I don't know what to do about you.

Have you ever heard of the “Christian Camp Experience?” When we go to camp it is almost impossible not to get fired up for God. For an entire week you are surrounded by Christians, great teaching, and feeding off of each others enthusiasm. Our walk with Jesus goes to an entirely new level. Then what happens most of the time? We come back and stay fired up for a couple weeks. Why is that? Most of the time its distractions. We loose the focus that we had. Other things overtake what we finally had as most important. Our desire to become like Christ slowly fades.
This is similar to what Paul is writing the Galatians about. When he was visiting and preaching to them, they were on fire for Jesus. They were walking examples of Christ. Paul even throws in a little humor by saying they would have “torn out their eyes” and given them to him. They were literally holding nothing back to glorify God. Then what happened? Paul left. They got distracted by other teachings and their focus on Christ slowly faded.
Everyone reading this can certainly remember a time when they were growing rapidly in their walk with Jesus. Has that faded? Have you wandered from your “Christian Camp Experience?” Surround yourselves with Christian that can keep you accountable and keep you growing.

Aaron