Galatians
“Freedom In Christ”
Paul firmly and lovingly shares the truth of freedom in Christ with the church in Galatia. The book of Galatians is often referred to as a "mini Romans." While the Roman church certainly had its problems, the church in Galatia faced its own struggles. Not only does Paul challenge the false gospel being presented to them, but he also clearly presents the one true Gospel of justification through faith in Jesus Christ.
In the midst of combating the Judaizers and false teachers, Paul helps the church strengthen their faith in Christ by encouraging them to be led by the Spirit rather than by their flesh, to lift up and care for one another, and to know the true freedom that rests in Christ alone.
Galatians is a wonderful letter in which Paul shares his concern for those he loves. He wanted them to know absolute truth and be free in Christ. He desired for them to live in this world by the Spirit of Christ. Finally, he wanted them to stand up to the false gospel being presented and to stand firm on the foundation that is our Lord and Savior. This letter is amazingly complex yet straightforward, conveying what the church needs to hear today and for generations to come.
October 6th, 2024
“Adopted”
Galatians 4:1-8
Truth of Scripture:
Before the incarnation of Jesus Christ, humanity was governed by the Law. The Law served to protect and guide the people until the appointed time when God sent His Son, freeing them from the Law. Righteousness was always attained by faith, even before Christ’s arrival.
Jesus came to redeem those under the Law so that they might be adopted as God's children. If you are adopted into the Kingdom of God, you become an heir according to the promise. Although Gentiles did not know God, they were still enslaved by the Law, sin, and the elemental forces of the world.
Desired Outcome:
For people to understand how the Law functioned as a guard, not a means of salvation.
For people to grasp the purpose of the Incarnation.
For people to realize and embrace that they are adopted into the family of God through the blood of Jesus Christ.
October 13th, 2024
“To Be Known By God”
Galatians 4:9-20
Truth of Scripture:
When you are known by God, it’s essential to focus on the new life He has set before you. As stated in 2 Corinthians 5:17, you are made new.
Paul argued with the church in Galatia about their tendency to revert to old patterns and focus on worldly matters rather than Christ. He called them out for losing the kindness they once showed and asked, “Where are you?” He missed those who genuinely cared for him and were dedicated to following God.
Receiving exhortation can be challenging. The Galatians likely knew the truth but chose to ignore it, as it’s often easier to seek recognition for good deeds and adherence to traditions than to embrace grace.
The truth is a double-edged sword; it defends but also can hurt.
Desired Outcomes:
To encourage people to know the truth and seek understanding in their lives.
Empower people to resist turning back to their worldly ways and commit to a higher calling.
Inspire people to live in grace, fostering kindness and forgiveness in their daily interactions.
Guide individuals to be known by God, nurturing a deep and authentic relationship with Him.
October 20th, 2024
“Christ is Formed in You”
Galatians 4:10-20
Truth of Scripture:
Paul argued with the church in Galatia about their tendency to revert to old patterns and focus on worldly matters rather than Christ. He called them out for losing the kindness they once showed and asked, “Where are you?” He missed those who genuinely cared for him and were dedicated to following God.
Receiving exhortation can be challenging. The Galatians likely knew the truth but chose to ignore it, as it’s often easier to seek recognition for good deeds and adherence to traditions than to embrace grace.
The truth is a double-edged sword; it defends but also can hurt.
Desired Outcomes:
To encourage people to know the truth and seek understanding in their lives.
Inspire people to live in grace, fostering kindness and forgiveness in their daily interactions.
October 27th, 2024
“Children of Promise”
Galatians 4:21-31
Truth of Scripture:
In this passage, Paul contrasts Abraham's two sons: Ishmael, born to Hagar, the slave, and Isaac, born to Sarah, the free woman.
Allegorically, Hagar represents Mount Sinai, where the Law was given, and the earthly Jerusalem. In contrast, the "Jerusalem above" is free, symbolized by Sarah, who, though barren, represents spiritual freedom.
Those who belong to Christ are free, while those who reject Him are like slaves and will ultimately face judgment, being cast out to the Lake of Fire.
Desired Outcome:
Understand the intricacies of belonging to slavery or being free.
Clarify what it means to be a child of promise
Comprehend that those who are of the flesh will always persecute those belonging to the Spirit.
November 3rd, 2024
Guest Speaker
Communion
November 10th, 2024
“Freedom”
Galatians 5:1-12
Truth of Scripture:
You have been called by Christ, who has set you free from the yoke of slavery. Do you want to remain a slave? Those who choose to be circumcised are required to keep the entire Law. If you wish to be subjected to the Law, you must live by it. Those who choose to live under the Law have opted out of living by grace.
While this passage may raise difficult questions about salvation, one point is clear: Christ offers no benefit to those who wish to be under the Law. Many people believe in Christ, but how many truly live through Him? How many have genuinely placed their faith in Him? The Galatians were putting their faith in the Law.
Desired Outcome:
How can you embrace the freedom that Christ offers you?
What influences your beliefs, and how do they compare to the teachings of Christianity?
In what practical ways can you actively integrate the truth of Scripture into your daily life?
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November 17th, 2024
“Flesh vs. Spirit"
Galatians 5:13-26
Truth of Scripture:
In Galatians 5:13-26, Paul emphasizes the core of his message to the Galatian church: the importance of focusing on love. When we fixate on our fleshly desires, we lose sight of God’s calling to love. By loving those around us, we can set aside our selfish impulses.
Paul contrasts these fleshly desires with those of the Spirit. When we walk in the Spirit, we embrace love, and our fleshly desires diminish. It’s about aligning ourselves with God’s purpose and shedding the old self.
We are in this together, and we should strive to serve and love for His Kingdom and the spread of the Gospel.
Desired Outcome:
Actively demonstrate transformative love to those around us, both within the church and in our community.
Identify and implement actionable steps that prioritize the work of the Spirit over fleshly desires, as reflected upon in Galatians 5.
Recognize how division within the church, as outlined in Galatians 5:26, undermines unity and weakens the witness of Christ, fostering a commitment to promote unity instead.
November 24th, 2024
“Bear One Another's Burdens"
Galatians 6:1-10
Truth of Scripture:
Based on Galatians 6:1-10, Paul began the conclusion of his letter by encouraging the people of Galatia to support one another. He urged them not to let a brother or sister continue down a path of sin, but to engage in the process of restoration with love and gentleness. He emphasized the importance of humility within the church, reminding them not to think more highly of themselves than they ought.
Paul then shifted his focus to how they should have conducted their daily lives in service to His Kingdom, the church, and the community. He reminded them that they reaped what they sowed: if they sowed according to the Spirit, they would reap eternal life.
This ought to encourage us to continue doing good in the Lord and not to lose heart. Paul emphasized that our call is to serve "all" people, a point that is often overlooked in our churches, communities, and country. We may find ourselves more focused on our own worldly opinions—sometimes justifying them with Scripture—rather than seeking to love and do good in His name from a biblical perspective.
Desired Outcomes:
Empower people to deeply engage with the meaning of true community within the church.
Help people fully grasp the principles of sowing and reaping in their spiritual lives.
Inspire people to actively commit to doing good, reflecting the love of Christ in their actions.
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