In chapter 5, Paul said, “A little yeast can change a whole batch of dough…” That sentence might seem a little out of place. Why is it there? What does it mean?

Let’s put it in context, shall we?

Paul is talking to the Galatians about the fact that they had become influenced by someone with false teachings…someone was telling them that they must adhere to the Mosaic Law.

Here’s that phrase now, in context. Verses 7-10: “You were doing so well until someone made you turn from the truth. 8 And that person was certainly not sent by the one who chose you. 9 A little yeast can change a whole batch of dough, 10 but you belong to the Lord. That makes me certain that you will do what I say, instead of what someone else tells you to do. Whoever is causing trouble for you will be punished.”

So Paul is saying that just one person can negatively impact their whole church. One person’s false teaching can influence their beliefs.

That’s why it is so important to have a good grasp of God’s Word, so that you can spot false teaching. Test what you are being taught. Compare it to the Bible. If the teaching contradicts the Word, then it is wrong and should be rejected.