If all Jesus Christ can do is tell me that I must be holy,
His teaching only causes me to despair.
Oswald Chambers
This is how Christianity differs from other religions.
Other religions tell you to follow the steps,
walk through the pillars, keep the rules.
And the world does the same, singing to us:
Don’t worry, be happy.
Great advice, if we could do it, but we cannot.
We are drowning, and we need a rescue from on high.
Remember, we are, as Luther said, “caterpillars in a ring of fire.”
Our only hope of rescue is from above.
And so the book of Galatians begins, not with good advice, but with good news!
Luther says this verse sums up Galatians.
We know how it works to be rescued from the penalty of sin.
We agree with God that we are sinful,
and repent and receive His payment on our behalf.
But how does this rescue from the power of sin work?
That’s where we are headed.
I’ll begin with an illustration from my life, and then ask you for some of your own.
This will be our drumbeat these two months, for Galatians
was written to rescue us from a multitude of sins.
My Sin: Lack of Genuine Forgiveness from the Heart
When someone hurts me or someone I love, I know God tells me to forgive, but that is not my natural reaction. In “What’s So Amazing about Grace,” Philip Yancey says the reason grace is amazing is because it is not natural. What is natural is to want to hurt back or to withdraw. It is not natural to let it go and to love our “enemy.”
The opening of Galatians shows us that we are prone to believe lies, to “turn to a different gospel,” the spurious gospel that tells us we can save ourselves or help God to save us. One of the lies that I believe when I struggle to forgive, is that I want this person to be dealt with, and I don’t think God will do it the way it should be done. I also think I will feel better if I can justify myself, instead of trusting in Christ’s justification. When I believe these lies, this is my scenario.
I withdraw from that person and nurse my hurt, going over why he/she was wrong, and I was right. I justify myself internally and I imagine conversations with this person that will show him just how wrong he is.
Our own Diane from Canada wrote last week:
I can relate to Luther’s “Preface to Galatians” where he speaks of people seeking many ways to redeem themselves, defend themselves. The preface is worth several rereads and ponderings. We definitely spend a huge amount of energy justifying ourselves – both to ourselves internally and to others.
So, how can I let Christ rescue me? First, I must admit my need, just as I had to admit my need to be rescued from the penalty of sin. I need to cry out to God from my ring of fire. I know I should forgive but I cannot! Help me, O Lord!
I remember doing this when I was standing in front of my jewelry box, realizing Niki, who cleaned for me, had stolen the emerald jewelry my late husband has given me. I knew the rule: forgive. But I couldn’t do it, so I cried out from my ring of fire. Many of you know this story, and how God brought this scene from Les Miserables to my mind.
With this, God reached down and reminded me of the gospel. That helped melt my heart and I began to forgive Niki. Another woman she had stolen from pressed charges and she went to jail. I sent her a Bible and studies. But I didn’t go see her. I needed more help from above. That happened when I met with her when she got out of jail. I was overwhelmed by the Spirit who did in me what I could not do. I was able to forgive her from my heart, to ask her forgiveness for my hard and unforgiving heart, and lead her to the Lord. The peace and freedom that came was amazing.
I am gaining wisdom with this particular sin. I know that when I am hurt by someone, I must make a conscious decision to stop nursing my own hurt. I can do that by melting my heart with how much I have been forgiven, and reminding myself I have a God who will deal with that person. When I do this, freedom and joy comes. Often I must do it repeatedly, but He always helps me. It is, as Eugene Peterson put it, “a long obedience in the same direction.” And eventually, I really do feel free of the burden. I can truly try to be at peace with that person, have compassion instead of hatred, and in time, no matter their response, God does in me what I could not do. He causes me to “let it go!” He will do all things well in His time.
A Long Obedience in the Same Direction
In the book Educated, the author had to overcome a childhood of terrible abuse. After a mental breakdown she began therapy. She said, “There was not one session that I could look back on and say: “that session changed me,” However, the cumulative effective did heal me.” So often we want a quick change, but I encourage you to stay with this for our two months, for the cumulative effect will lead to freedom.
Sunday:
1. What stands out to you from the above and why?
2. None of us have arrived, but there may be an area where you have had a measure of success in overcoming a temptation. What lies are you overcoming? What truth are you speaking to your soul? How has God reached down to you?
Monday: Rescued from This Present Evil Age
3. Read Galatians 1:1-2 and explain Paul’s credentials and why we should listen carefully.
4. Meditate on Galatians 1:4 which Luther says sums up the whole letter.
A. What can Christ rescue us from and how did He do it?
B. Give one illustration of how the gospel could rescue someone from the power of sin?
C. Keller makes a point that he doesn’t say, “according to your merit or righteousness.” What does
he say and why is this significant?
Tuesday: A Different Gospel
False teachers had come to believers and told them that they needed to add to what Christ did to be saved — they were being told they also needed to be circumcised and to abstain from certain foods.
5. How do you see false teachers doing this today in regard to being rescued from the penalty of sin. They say you need Jesus plus _____________ to be saved (give an example.)
6. Now — let’s make this personal.
A. You are facing a trial, and you feel alone because you think you need Jesus plus your own merit. Speak to your soul.
B. You have been hurt. You feel the person that hurt you should suffer, and though you may not think it consciously, you are are going to help God deal with him by withdrawing or finding ways to drive the knife in. Speak to your soul.
C. Your life is stressful. To relieve the stress, you think you need Jesus plus (sugar, shopping, sexual immorality, gossiping to another…) How might you flee temptation and speak to your soul, melting your soul with the gospel?
7. Read Galatians 1:6-9
A. Describe Paul’s tone.
B. Why is this righteous indignation?
C. What do verses 8-9 say should happen to a person who preaches a different gospel?
In The Solid Rock, we sing:
8. Apply this to being saved from the power of sin.
A. Where do you tend to run, other than God, when you are stressed, bored, or depressed?
B. Now, in this situation practice melting your heart with the gospel.
Wednesday: Is Your Religion Manmade or from God?
9. What does Galatians 1:10 say? How could this help us stand firm on the gospel?
10. What does Galatians 1:11 say?
Last Thursday we had our first Bible study using SonShip, which is based on Galatians. We have unbelievers in our group. How I long for them to see that Christianity is not a manmade religion, as are all the others. I had prepared these questions if it came up — but it didn’t:
- Do you think it is possible that some religions are manmade and therefore prone to error?
- Do you think, if there is a God, that He might be capable of revealing Himself and His truth?
11. What question might you ask those who feel it is wrong to say there is only one way to God and that is is Jesus?
Thursday: Paul’s Testimony
12. Read Galatians 1:13-24 and outline Paul’s testimony.
13. What particularly stands out to you and why?
Friday: Oswald Chambers on “his Son in me.”
Print off and read, underline, and mediate on this one page essay from Chambers:
14. What heredity do we have as believers which makes obedience possible?
15. Why must we come to the end of ourselves to receive this power?
16. What stands out to you from this essay and why?
17. Share a time when you experienced this power at work within you.
Saturday:
18. What is your take-a-way and why?
190 comments
7. Read Galatians 1:6-9
A. Describe Pauls’s tone. He is “astonished” .. he sounds shocked, a little angry, and maybe frustrated?
B. Why is this righteous indignation? Because he is not angry for selfish gain but concerned about their well-being due to another’s misleading actions…
C. What do verses 8-9 say should happen to a person who preaches a different gospel? He should be “accursed.” He even references himself (“even if we”) and angels…interesting.
8. Apply this to being saved from the power of sin.
A. Where do you tend to run, other than to God, when you are stressed, bored, or depressed? Usually escape behavior. This manifests in many ways (texting a friend, baking, reading…) but the heart intent is to avoid dealing with whatever is at my doorstep.
B. Now, in this situation practice melting your heart with the gospel. Dear soul, if you run you will miss the beauty that Christ has called you to and called you to be. If you do not press in and through your foundation will become shaky and crumble. Trust, deal, walk….
“If You say go
We will go
If You say wait
We will wait
If You say step out on the water
And they say it can’t be done
We’ll fix our eyes on You and we will come
Your ways
Are higher than our ways
And the plans that You have laid
Are good and true
If You call us to the fire
You will not withdraw Your hand
We’ll gaze into the flames and look for You“
Thank you for posting these words, Jill.
Timely reminder for me here this morning.
link to song: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IT4YQk8WeHY
11. What question might you ask those who feel it is wrong to say there is only one way to God and that is is Jesus?
What is truth? By asking this question, their answer provides a framework on which to have a discussion on this matter.
I greatly respect the winsome and wise approach that Dr. Ravi Zacharius takes on this. In this message entitled Jesus Among Other Gods (that I have listened to a few times), he talks about how Herod asked the most important question in life – What is truth? The irony is that he was asking Jesus this question and did not hear the answer. Here is a link to this 45 min. message:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z2vot0xeefk
Tuesday
7. Read Galatians 1:6-9
A. Describe Paul’s tone.
I like how the Amplified version puts it, “I am astonished and extremely irritated…”. He was “blown away” as we would say it today.
B. Why is this righteous indignation?
Paul’s anger came from the gospel being unjustly represented and he knew this would anger God.
Tuesday
7C. What do verses 8-9 say should happen to a person who preaches a different gospel?
They should be condemned to destruction.
In the Solid Rock, we sing, “My hope is built on nothing less than Jesus’ blood and righteousness. I dare not trust the sweetest frame but wholly trust in Jesus’ name.”
8. Apply this to being saved from the power of sin.
A. Where do you tend to run, other than God, when you are stressed, bored, or depressed?
I tend to run to sweets, social media, tv, husband or daughter (not necessarily in that order).
B. Now, in this situation practice melting your heart with the gospel.
Oh, Lord, You are the only one who can truly satisfy and bring peace. May I run into the will of the Father which is to be rescued from sin and the present evil age which was made possible by the sacrifice of Jesus.
We run to the same idols! Help us see instead what it says in Galatians 3:1-2.
5. How do you see false teachers doing this today in regard to being rescued from the penalty of sin. They say you need Jesus plus _____________ to be saved (give an example.) – What comes to my mind are the ‘preachers’ that say to send them money, they will anoint a prayer cloth and send it to you and you will be healed. From what the bible says, you need faith to be healed and to follow Jesus. I don’t see anywhere that says I need to send Jesus money first.
6. Now — let’s make this personal.
A. You are facing a trial, and you feel alone because you think you need Jesus plus your own merit. Speak to your soul. – Lord help me with my unbelief that I think I need to do ‘something’ in order for you to work in my life. Help me to know that YOU are ENOUGH and all that I need to get through the many struggles that come my way. Thank you Jesus. Amen!
B. You have been hurt. You feel the person that hurt you should suffer, and though you may not think it consciously, you are are going to help God deal with him by withdrawing or finding ways to drive the knife in. Speak to your soul. – Lord I know my groaning about the person is not right. Help me to see that you don’t need my help to ‘fix’ them. You will bring the truth out when Your time is right. My name will be clean when you see that it should be. Help my heart Lord to be free from the evil words that were said. You are the one that can heal my heart and mind. Thank you Lord. Amen!
C. Your life is stressful. To relieve the stress, you think you need Jesus plus (sugar, shopping, sexual immorality, gossiping to another…) How might you flee temptation and speak to your soul, melting your soul with the gospel? – Lord help me to not complain to others when the load seems heavy. Help me to give my Lord to you like your Word says I should. I want only to glorify you Lord and I know that my gossiping and complaining does not do that. Help me to seek your first in all I do so my peace comes from within. Thank you Lord for your divine peace. Amen!
7. Read Galatians 1:6-9
A. Describe Paul’s tone. – Appalled, Shocked, Mocking. Warning all of us again.
B. Why is this righteous indignation? – Because Paul has to remind us that there is no other gospel and only the true Word of God is the one we should be following. He is angry, appalled that he even has to remind us of this.
C. What do verses 8-9 say should happen to a person who preaches a different gospel? – Anyone who preaches this false statement should be accursed.
In the Solid Rock we Sing…My hope is built on nothing less Than Jesus’ blood and righteousness I dare not trust the sweetest frame But wholly trust in Jesus’ name.
8. Apply this to being saved from the power of sin. – If we would stand on this truth, we only need to rely on the blood of Jesus to remove the sin from our lives. If we would call out to Him and ask for help, we would be saved from the power of sin. I need to remember that he bore my pain and suffering by dying on the cross and to not let His suffering have been done in vain.
A. Where do you tend to run, other than God, when you are stressed, bored, or depressed? – I don’t really run to other thing or people, I just clam up and retreat to be by myself somewhere. The problem is when I do this I leave God of the issue and forget that my peace from it could come sooner if I only let Him in.
B. Now, in this situation practice melting your heart with the gospel. – Lord, when I’m down and depressed, help me reach for your Word to shed light on the issue that is causing me to be down. Help me find the strength I need to open your Word, the breath of life that can be found in it. I need this more when I’m down but can’t seem to find it. Thank you Lord for your guidance. Amen!
A. What can Christ rescue us from and how did He do it? Christ can rescue us from our sinful ways. He gave his life up so we can have not only eternal life but abundant life.
B. Give one illustration of how the gospel could rescue someone from the power of sin? God’s word is powerful, active and living. As we build our life upon God’s truth, Jesus comes alive in our hearts giving us power to change.
9. What does Galatians 1:10 say?
That we should not try to please man, but only worry about pleasing God.
How could this help us stand firm on the gospel?
The gospel tells us that all we need to do is believe that God is our savior and we receive eternal life. What a glorious thing! If we believe this then the corollary is that we behave in a manner that pleases Him.
10. What does Galatians 1:11 say?
The gospel Paul preaches is not man made.
11. What question might you ask those who feel it is wrong to say there is only one way to God and that is is Jesus?
Are you aware of another religion where the “leader” gave his life for his people?
Is there another religion where you don’t have to do something, or give something to be able to benefit by being a follower?
12. Read Galatians 1:13-24 and outline Paul’s testimony.
13. What particularly stands out to you and why?
What stands out is that Paul is admitting his sins and how he is a living testimony of how God can change a person no matter the sin.
12. Read Galatians 1:13-24 and outline Paul’s testimony.
He intensely persecuted the Church trying to destroy it for judaism was his way of life for he was zealous for the traditions of his fathers. but God revealed Himself to him melting Paul’s heart and Paul turned and gave His life to Jesus but this time he wasn’t zealous of traditions of men for he didn’t go to men who were apostles before he was but was zealous of Christ and preaching Him. He went to Arabia then to Damascus, and after 3 years went to Jerusalem to stay with Cephus for 15 days.
13. What particularly stands out to you and why?
That Paul is saying Christianity isn’t built on the traditions of men..Man didn’t start Christianity, God did and it is built on Christ alone.
6. Now — let’s make this personal.
A. You are facing a trial, and you feel alone because you think you need Jesus plus your own merit. Speak to your soul.
God, are you there? I feel so alone in this darkness. It seems like I’ll never get it right…never be worthy. I struggle to do the right thing, to say the right thing, to be the right thing…and it’s so empty. Oh my child! You are finally getting it right. You can never be worthy enough or do enough…that’s why I sent my Son! He alone is worthy…He is all you need. Worthy is the Lamb that was slain (Rev. 5)
B. You have been hurt. You feel the person that hurt you should suffer, and though you may not think it consciously, you are are going to help God deal with him by withdrawing or finding ways to drive the knife in. Speak to your soul.
My soul is broken in a thousand pieces by the current circumstances in my life. All I long to do is lash out and cut this person with the shards of my broken heart. After all God is so merciful that He may not fully deal with injustice. But bless the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all His benefits. He forgives all your iniquities, and heals all your diseases, and it is He who redeems your life from this pit, and crowns you with compassion, and satisfies you with good things so that your youth is renewed!(Psalm 103)
C. Your life is stressful. To relieve the stress, you think you need Jesus plus (sugar, shopping, sexual immorality, gossiping to another…) How might you flee temptation and speak to your soul, melting your soul with the gospel.
The stress of this life is too much! My soul whispers…you deserve a listening ear…someone to pour out your troubles to! If others only knew what you were going through then they would see what a saint you are…I mean they would see why you are so stressed out and they would cut you some slack and be more supportive! Set a guard over my mouth O Lord, keep watch over the door of my lips! Help me to remember that sin is not ended by multiplying words but the prudent hold their tongues. Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouth but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs (not mine),that it may benefit those who listen. May my lips overflow with praise, for you teach me your decrees. May my tongue sing of your word, for all your commands are righteous. Lord, may your hand be ready to help me, for I have chosen your precepts. Amen
Such good soul talk, Lucy.
Wednesday: Is Your Religion Manmade or from God?
9. What does Galatians 1:10 say? Paul asks his listeners…am I now trying to win the favor of and approval of men or of God? Am I seeking to be a people pleaser? If I am doing these things then I am not a bond-servant of Christ.
How could this help us stand firm on the gospel? I need to ask myself…Who do I belong to, who loves me the best, and therefore…who do I want to please the most…Christ or man!
10. What does Galatians 1:11 say? For I want you to know, all you who believe, that I did not invent or make up this good news of grace! For indeed I did not receive it from man, nor did anyone teach me this, but I received this grace gospel straight from Jesus Christ.
11. What question might you ask those who feel it is wrong to say there is only one way to God and that is is Jesus? I would ask them…so, how’s your way working for you?
Thursday: Paul’s Testimony
12. Read Galatians 1:13-24 and outline Paul’s testimony.
He was a zealous and even an exemplary Jew who persecuted the church “beyond measure”. But, little did Paul know…he had been set apart by God, even from his mother’s womb to become an ambassador of the gospel of grace…and to the Gentiles of all people! Paul did not ‘check his understanding’ of this Damascus Road experience with his former crowd or even with the other disciples…but he went away…got alone with God. It was 3 years after his return to Damascus before he went to Jerusalem…does not mention how long he was in Arabia.
13. What particularly stands out to you and why?
God can and does use whom He chooses…whether they are a prodigal (tax collectors, prostitutes, adulterers)or older brothers (Pharisees like Paul)! Saul/Paul’s conversion happened in God’s timing…when He who called me….was pleased to reveal His son in me… “I did not immediately consult with flesh and blood (the world/friends) nor did I go up to Jerusalem to those who were apostles before me (the church) but I went away to Arabia…”. My default is to go first to talk out with others what I have heard God saying…and we often are urged to seek godly counsel. Neither of these things are bad or wrong per se…but they reveal my hearts issue of wanting the approval of others or validation by others. Sometimes, by talking to others prematurely, I have been like young Joseph…sharing his dream with his brothers! Other times I have let the voices of those I respect persuade me to go a different path than that on which I felt God was calling me…
12. Paul received the gospel from Jesus. Previously, in his zeal for Judaism, he persecuted believers. But when God got ahold of him, he started preaching Christ among the Gentiles.
13. vs15-16. God…was pleased to reveal His son in me…
this is awkward for me to understand. It makes it sound like Jesus was there in Paul before the Damascus road. Yet that isn’t right. I need to do more study on this.
Good soul talk, Jill.. It is hurtful to have people tell you they don’t want to be your friend! Yet that actually tells you more about them than you, but still, I empathize. Good soul talk though.
Not sure why this comment is appearing here — sorry for confusion.
9. What does Galatians 1:10 say? How could this help us stand firm on the gospel? Paul is reprimanding those in the church and then he says, “Am I seeking the approval of man or Christ?” He is exemplifying both passive righteousness and turning from idols, as I imagine he struggled with the idol of man’s approval while a Pharisee.
10. What does Galatians 1:11 say? Paul is saying that the gospel he preached was not “man’s gospel.” The amplified Bible expands “man’s gospel [it is not a human invention, patterned after any human concept].”
11. What question might you ask those who feel it is wrong to say there is only one way to God and that it is Jesus? For a long time now I have prayed that I might become good at asking questions. I have a dear friend who has impacted my life significantly by asking good questions. I think the questions have to be individualized…and I think they have to be sincere, wanting to know more about that person, allowing them to explore the path rather than telling them what they should think. Questions can be leading or imply truth but they should not be manipulative nor make the questioned feel stupid. We have heard so many people “give the gospel” in insulting ways, implying that those who do not believe are fools and idiots. This always deeply saddens me for a well versed question always does more to unlock the armor of the heart than any verbal sledgehammer!
One good question is always: Tell me more about why you think that or why you have come to decide that?
Or maybe: do you believe there is no absolute truth? Is that in itself an absolute truth?
C. Your life is stressful. To relieve the stress, you think you need Jesus plus (sugar, shopping, sexual immorality, gossiping to another…) How might you flee temptation and speak to your soul, melting your soul with the gospel?
I am a comfort junkie. I think I need to be home in my pajamas, I need to be alone with some food I love and no one around while I eat it.
We traveled over the holidays and came home to multiple celebrations. I decided to not try to maintain the low carb ketogenic way I had been eating during the festivities resolving to return to it after New Years Day. When I am eating right and exercising, I really get to a place where my god is not my stomach, but man alive when I begin eating sweets they quickly get their hooks in me.
I once told a friend that it feels like there are 2 me’s one who is concerned about nutrition and fitness and one who wants to eat the things I love until I don’t feel well :/
I wanted to make a list of things I wanted to eat before going back on my diet, you know…I had to eat the candy in the house, I wanted to get a pizza that I had a free coupon for, OOOO I wanted to one of those sandwiches I used to love… that battle plus I had not exercised since we went out of town, I didn’t feel like exercising because when I eat badly I hurt, my aches and pains resurface, it is difficult to get back in the routine.
I haven’t been really really bad, I had gained about 4 pounds, but I began to feel sort of helpless to change back. I was praying and this verse came to mind, “As a dog returns to his vomit, so a fool repeats his folly”
That was helpful, I began my eating plan again, I don’t have that sort of excitement that often accompanies a change in eating but I am resolved to not be a slave to sin/sugar…but my husband is out of town this week and I may go alone to see Mary Poppins I will eat popcorn with gratitude and cry as much as I want to when they sing ‘Tuppence a Bag’!
It takes a while to get the holiday hooks out . Lord help us both, for we know when we do what is right, we will be lifted up!
B. Why is this righteous indignation?
Paul is defending the truth, He is showing them there is no other way than the narrow gate of accepting that we are accepted by faith alone by the grace given us through Christ
Wednesday
9. What does Galatians 1:10 say? How could this help us stand firm on the gospel?
“Obviously, I’m not trying to win the approval of people, but of God. If pleasing people were my goal I would not be Christ’s servant.”
Since I’m a child of the King, I don’t need the approval of man.
10. What does Galatians 1:11 say?
The gospel that Paul preached is “not based on mere human reasoning.”
Do you think it is possible that some religions are manmade and therefore prone to error? Yes
Do you think, if there is a God, that He might be capable of revealing Himself and His truth?
Definitely. Romans 1:19-20. They know the truth about God because He has made it obvious through His creation. They can see His invisible qualities – His eternal power and divine nature. So they are without excuse for not knowing God.
9. What does Galatians 1:10 say?
For am I now seeking the approval of man, or of God? Or am I trying to please man? If I were still trying to please man, I would not be a servant[b] of Christ.
How could this help us stand firm on the gospel?
I can constantly ask myself what is motivating my thoughts and actions, am I serving my own interests or am I living as If I am a beloved daughter whose choices either glorify my Father or feed my selfish desires and ambitions.
Thursday
12. Read Galatians 1:13-24 and outline Paul’s testimony.
I. Paul’s Past.
A. Followed the Jewish religion.
1. Far ahead of his fellow Jews in his zeal for the traditions of his ancestors.
B. Violently persecuted God’s church
1. Did his best to destroy it.
II. Paul’s Conversion
A. God chose him before he was born and called him to His marvelous grace.
B. God revealed His Son to him so he could proclaim the gospel to the Gentiles.
III. Paul’s Post Conversion
A. Didn’t rush out to consult with any human being
1. Not even those who were apostles before him in Jerusalem
B. Went to Arabia and later returned to Damascus
C. Three years later went to Jerusalem to get to know Peter
1. Stayed with him for 15 days
2. Also met James, the Lord’s brother at that time
D. Went north to the regions of Syria and Cilicia
V. Paul’s reputation
A. Unknown by sight to the Churches in Judea (Jerusalem and the surrounding area).
1. Only known as the one who used to persecute and is now preaching the gospel
2. They were glorifying God for what had taken place in his life.
13. What particularly stands out to you and why?
What stands out to me is that he didn’t rush out to consult with any human, but rather God. This reminds me that God should be first on my list to run to. I should seek Him for guidance and wisdom for my life and the circumstances it brings!
A. Where do you tend to run, other than God, when you are stressed, bored, or depressed?
Food and sleep or spending time on Youtube
B. Now, in this situation practice melting your heart with the gospel.
Lord, you are the only one who can satisfy. I want things to turn out the way I think it should but life on this earth brings no satisfaction. There is always that vacuum. And I am thankful since that vacuum always point me to you as the only who can fill it. Because you have saved me from the penalty and power of sin, I can be confident that when I call on you, you will answer because you know your sheep and I am one of them. When I am stressed, help me find rest in you. When I am bored, help me see in you is fullness of joy and when I am depressed, be the lifter of my head.
Wednesday: Is Your Religion Manmade or from God?
9. What does Galatians 1:10 say? How could this help us stand firm on the gospel?
God is the author of my salvation therefore my allegiance is only to Him.
10. What does Galatians 1:11 say?
Paul said that the gospel he preached was not of human origin.
·
11. What question might you ask those who feel it is wrong to say there is only one way to God and that is is Jesus?
Do you believe that God is true to His Word?
Thursday: Paul’s Testimony
12. Read Galatians 1:13-24 and outline Paul’s testimony.
Before Christ – a persecutor of Christians; seeking advancement; pleasing others;
After Christ: a lover of human souls; consider all advancement loss; pleasing God only
13. What particularly stands out to you and why?
That we are changed, made new when we encounter Christ. “The old is gone and the new has come.”
Wednesday: Is Your Religion Manmade or from God?
9. What does Galatians 1:10 say? How could this help us stand firm on the gospel? – It says “For am I now seeking the approval of man, or of God? Or am I trying to please man? If I were still trying to please man, I would not be a servant of God.” It helps us to stand firm know that we, as a child of God, His servant, we need His approval and his alone. If we went to the outside for approval, we would not be putting the Lord first in all we do.
10. What does Galatians 1:11 say? – “For I would have you know, brothers, that the gospel that was preached by me is not man’s gospel.”
Last Thursday we had our first Bible study using SonShip, which is based on Galatians. We have unbelievers in our group. How I long for them to see that Christianity is not a manmade religion, as are all the others. I had prepared these questions if it came up — but it didn’t:
Do you think it is possible that some religions are manmade and therefore prone to error? – I think there are some. Those that take the scriptures and turn them to the way they see fit for their lives.
Do you think, if there is a God, that He might be capable of revealing Himself and His truth? – I know He can. The truth has been revealed in my life. He is faithful and just. He has always come through for me in His timing. He has never left me alone. These are all truths in His Word. His promises to us. Man cannot fulfil these traits.
11. What question might you ask those who feel it is wrong to say there is only one way to God and that is Jesus? – I would ask them why they think that and if not through Jesus, then how do we reach the Father? I would also ask them to show me their backup to their statements.
I so wish I had more time in the morning for these questions are always SO good. I spend about a half hour thinking through the questions and then it is too late to note my answers here. :-/
14. What heredity do we have as believers which makes obedience possible?
His Holy Spirit. i love how Oswald says this, “His own heredity of holiness into me.”
15. Why must we come to the end of ourselves to receive this power?
We have to see our need first. We can’t overcome sin via practicing morality for we aren’t Holy..We are sinners, helpless..hopeless..We need Him to put His Holy Spirit inside.
16. What stands out to you from this essay and why?
That when a person is hit by his own need God will put His Holy Spirit into his spirit and his personal spirit will be energized by the Spirit of the Son of God.
All good thoughts, Rebecca!
11. What question might you ask those who feel it is wrong to say there is only one way to God and that is is Jesus?
Do you feel that in relationships with other humans we get to decide what the other persons boundaries and expectations should be?
Why would we expect that we would be able to decide those things for infinite all omniscient God?
12. Read Galatians 1:13-24 and outline Paul’s testimony.
Zealous for Judaism from an early age
Set apart by God, called by grace to a revelation of Christ, for the purpose of outreach to Gentiles
Did not consult with anyone, went to Gentiles
After 3 years he visited Peter and James, but no other apostles
He went again to Gentiles not to Judea
God was glorified because Paul a former persecutor of the church was now preaching Christ
13. What particularly stands out to you and why?
That Paul didn’t need the affirmation of the established church, he knew his calling was from God
4. We are saved from sin and from this evil age.
5. False teaching: Jesus plus works, church traditions,etc.
6.I have been hurt; speak to my soul- Let me have compassion, forgiveness, whatever his/her motivation may have been.May I not seek to get even or take revenge. Help me to speak my truth and not withdraw or become angry without restraint. I tend to hold on and let the hurt fester. May I let it go and let God deal with the person.
7. Paul’s tone: He was astonished, felt disbelief or frustration that they could turn to another”gospel” which is distorted.
8. Being saved from the power of sin. This is wholly a gift of God, not from anything that I could do. My trust is in the Lord, who took on my sin by loving me and being obedient to His Father’s will.
A. Where do I run? I often escape to a quiet place and I pray and seek God’s help. But I also seek comfort and look to friends for support.
9. If I am seeking approval of man, I would not be a servant of Christ? Yes, I must let Christ’s suffering make a difference and trust Him completely- even when I feel emotional pain of a broken relationship.
10.The gospel I have preached is not man’s gospel. It is not by works or any other thing.
11. My question regarding Jesus is the way, the truth and the life, no man comes to the Father but by me.
What makes you think we could ever find a way that meets the standard of a perfect God?
Shirley, I love your answer to #9. ” I let Christ’s suffering make a difference and trust Him completely-even when I feel emotional pain of a broken relationship.”
So good: I often escape to a quiet place and I pray and seek God’s help
12. Read Galatians 1:13-24 and outline Paul’s testimony.
Paul sought after the traditions of his fathers with extreme zealousness, surpassing his peers in his works. Then God, by His Grace, sought to call Him to the Gospel and so Christ appeared to Him so that Paul would then take the same Gospel to the gentiles. He did not hear the message from man, nor consult man on the message, nor immediately travel to Jerusalem. After three years he went to Jerusalem to visit Cephas and saw only one apostle, James. Then he went to Syria and Cilicia.
13. What particularly stands out to you and why? A few things. First, his story is similar to Martin Luther’s. He sought the God he knew was real in the only way he knew how – through an effort to be blameless or at least adequately repentant before a Holy God. But when their eyes were unveiled to Grace they both became just as zealous for the passive righteousness of the gospel. Perhaps the full understanding of how deep their sin was and how inadequate their Herculean efforts were to cover that sin led to the deep understanding and love of Christ.
His story here says he did not consult anyone, but he went to Damascus and spoke with Ananias and the disciples there right after Christ appeared to him. ?
There is a danger in just reading his story as an independent divine revelation. Other religions will claim the same (Muhammed comes to mind)- that some god told them this is the truth and the rules…. But Paul’s was not a new idea brought from heaven, but a completion of a story set up thousands of years earlier. Christ, in Paul’s extremely knowledgeable brain, was the “punchline.” Not only that but all through the Bible we see affirming testimonies of these truths that Paul preaches…which is one reason why I think God commanded men to write it down!
off to the hospital with Philip (routine) but had to quickly jump on and say…
HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO OUR DEAR LAURA DANCER!!!!
Oh Laura, you are truly a GIFT to all of us–you have challenged us, and taught me so much. I’m thankful for your example of faithfulness, both to our study and to your family. Praying for God to richly bless you this year!
Thanks Lizzy! You are too kind 😊.
Yes, Laura. I agree with Lizzy. You are a GIFT here. I thank the Lord for you.
thanks Bing!
Laura, I hope you had a wonderful birthday!
I did Susan! Thank you!
Happy Birthday Laura!! Hope you had fun-filled celebration. God bless and keep you in the coming year! 🎂🎈🎁🎉
Thanks Sharon! The big double nickels as my hubby says!
Laura, may your birthday be a special day for celebrating you!
Thank you Mary! It was very nice.
14. When we come to Jesus, He implants within us the Holy Spirit, a new heredity from which to operate.
15. Until we come to the end of ourselves, we don’t recognize a need for God. We think we can do it ourselves.
16. I know so many people that love to read Chambers. It is sad, but I just don’t get him.
17. When I can explain Bible truth to someone or write an encouraging note, those are the times I most feel that new nature within.
Hi Mary…Oswald Chambers can be like that for me too. There have been times where I just didn’t get it but other times where it has hit me dead square between the eyes! The Holy Spirit can open our hearts and minds to it when needed:-) So, don’t give up on Chambers work.
14. What heredity do we have as believers which makes obedience possible?
The Holy Spirit.
15. Why must we come to the end of ourselves to receive this power?
It is only when we acknowledge ( made aware) we need the Holy Spirit that God will put Him in us until Christ is formed in me(us)
16. What stands out to you from this essay and why?
I am gripped to conviction by this as today my frustration level was high as I looked at and graded my students’ papers. I was at a loss-did I not just list the things they needed to turn in-was I not clear enough in my instructions? This is the second semester and it is the same old story-less quality of work than I expected, lack of initiative. I need help, Lord. I am tired of repeating myself, I am ready to give up on this teaching. I want a vibrant life in you, Lord. Am asking the Holy Spirit to guide and give wisdom. Until Christ is formed in me…Help me not give up, Lord.
17. Share a time when you experienced this power at work within you.
1/10/19 Lord, I need you to show up big time tomorrow.
Answer to prayer: 1/11/19
I wrote the above answer to #16 yesterday but waited just now to finish my comments and submit. I returned students work to be redone and the Spirit helped me be patient and clear with my expectations. Deductions were still in place but I was more at peace with what I believed was fair treatment. Several things fall into place and I sensed God at work in making those things happen. Thank you, Lord. I don’t need to feel defeated when my expectations as a teacher are not met.
Tuesday
5. How do you see false teachers doing this today in regard to being rescued from the penalty of sin. They say you need Jesus plus _Baptism____________ to be saved (give an example.) When my brother-in-law passed away the priest officiating his funeral stated to everyone the date he was baptised and that he now resides in heaven. My husband and I were new believers and witnessed to him. Our hope and prayer was that he accepted the Lord. The priest was very misguiding with his statement. My thoughts were to the hearers and that words of the priest were weightly due to his robe and position. It was upsetting to me.
6. Now — let’s make this personal.
A. You are facing a trial, and you feel alone because you think you need Jesus plusyour own merit. Speak to your soul. Girl, get over yourself! If you think you can add anything to help God you are mistaken. Just because there is a delay in an answer doesn’t mean you have done anything wrong. You need to practice the words of Jesus and ONLY BELIEVE! Or labor to enter into his rest. The Father is no respecter of person. What he has done for others, He will do you. Rest!
B. You have been hurt. You feel the person that hurt you should suffer, and though you may not think it consciously, you are are going to help God deal with him by withdrawing or finding ways to drive the knife in. Speak to your soul. Ask God to bless them, their family, their business. Take those negative, judgemental thoughts captive and make them obedient to Jesus.
C. Your life is stressful. To relieve the stress, you think you need Jesus plus (sugar, shopping, sexual immorality, gossiping to another…) How might you flee temptation and speak to your soul, melting your soul with the gospel? Put on worship music and begin to pray.
Putting on worship music is a great suggestion, Tami!
Tami, your answer to 6A..loved this, “Just because there is a delay in an answer doesn’t mean you have done anything wrong.”
14. What heredity do we have as believers which makes obedience possible?
The Holy Spirit
15. Why must we come to the end of ourselves to receive this power?
Because God can’t put into me the nature that was in Jesus Christ unless I am aware of my need for it.
14. What heredity do we have as believers which makes obedience possible?
We are given the very nature of Christ!
It does seem too fantastic to be true when you have to write it down.
15. Why must we come to the end of ourselves to receive this power?
I don’t know my need until I realize my utter helplessness.
16. What stands out to you from this essay and why?
“When I finally reach the edge of my need and know my own limitations, then Jesus says, “Blessed are you…”
I am feeling…like the truth is sinking in, how much grace I have been given, and will continue to be given.
The kindness of the Lord feels so real to me right now.
Jesus loves even me
17. Share a time when you experienced this power at work within you.
I am feeling it right now…some of you know what a struggle it has been to believe I am really seen and still loved…in this moment, right now…I am feeling this. I know my weaknesses, I may be badly forgetting all of this fifteen minutes from now, but I must and do rejoice that I have tasted and seen that the Lord is GOOD!
I have prayed this passage for all of us and for myself here in the past, this morning the place my heart is feels like an answer to prayer
Ephesians 3:14-21
14 For this reason I kneel before the Father, 15 from whom every family[a] in heaven and on earth derives its name. 16 I pray that out of his glorious riches he may strengthen you with power through his Spirit in your inner being, 17 so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith. And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, 18 may have power, together with all the Lord’s holy people, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, 19 and to know this love that surpasses knowledge—that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God.
So glad, Chris. May it continue, Lord!
1. What stands out to you from the above and why?
I am eager to learn just how this power to rescue us from the power of sins works. Also, Dee’s story of struggling to forgive from the heart; so do I. When I read, “I justify myself internally and I imagine conversations with this person that will show him just how wrong he is”, I thought, “someone else does this too!” Sometimes I believe I am the only one who does stuff like this, and how I can relate to those imaginary conversations in my mind, and yes, as Diane said, the enormous amount of time spent justifying myself.
2. None of us have arrived, but there may be an area where you have had a measure of success in overcoming a temptation. What lies are you overcoming? What truth are you speaking to your soul? How has God reached down to you?
I do struggle with the temptation to withdraw from people when I perceive (it may not always be their true intention to hurt me) an offense or that I have been slighted or overlooked. The lies are, no one cares about you, no one cares if you’re there, you’re always left out… more and more as I get older, and looking back over my life, I am realizing that indeed, I have in many ways, closed myself off to people, becoming more reserved and self-protective. I missed a sign-up invitation to a gathering this afternoon; I fought those lies and called the hostess last night, asking “is it too late for me to come?” So, I am going and will help her greet guests and take their coats. The truth is, God wants me to be connected to others.
Good for you Susan — fighting the lies and moving out!
3. Read Galatians 1:1-2 and explain Paul’s credentials and why we should listen carefully.
First, Paul is one of the apostles, and he’s on a mission – not a mission created by men, but directly from Jesus Christ and God the Father, who raised Jesus from the dead. He’s got excellent credentials.
4. Meditate on Galatians 1:4 which Luther says sums up the whole letter.
A. What can Christ rescue us from and how did He do it?
Jesus can rescue us from our sins that He might deliver us “out of this present evil age”, and He did this by giving Himself (dying in our place). I’m not sure I understand what it means to deliver us “out of this present evil age”?
B. Give one illustration of how the gospel could rescue someone from the power of sin?
I remember from Idol Lies Rebecca’s story about how she was comforting herself with food and television every night, gaining weight and becoming more and more depressed. The food offered temporary satisfaction, but it couldn’t really deliver the comfort and relief she needed. When she turned to God for help, He began to break the power of her comfort idol and as she turned to Him, He met her.
C. Keller makes a point that he doesn’t say, “according to your merit or righteousness”. What does he say and why is this significant?
Paul writes that what was done for us (Jesus giving Himself for our sins that He might deliver us) was done “according to the will of our God and Father”….this is what God wants for us. If it was based upon my merit, righteousness, or being deserving of it, then, as Paul writes elsewhere, there would be plenty of boasting in heaven; we would credit ourselves and our goodness. But the problem is, and it is a huge and insurmountable problem – I am not “good” or righteous in myself and I can’t earn or deserve God’s consideration of me, to save me. It’s not like a resume where I’m listing my qualifications; I have none.
5. How do you see false teachers doing this today in regard to being rescued from the penalty of sin. They say you need Jesus plus_____ to be saved. (Give an example)
I know someone who goes to a certain church where it’s kind of a formula – they are “Oneness” in belief, and so you must be baptized “in the name of Jesus” and then you should be able to speak in tongues if you are saved. When I was still a Catholic, I remember one Sunday being very distressed because the homily was about how there is no condemnation for those who are in Christ (true), but then they discussed some new rules for confession, and that if you should die with an unconfessed mortal sin, you won’t go to heaven. That was confusing to me in light of the verse from Romans.
6. Now – let’s make this personal.
A. You are facing a trial, and you feel alone because you think you need Jesus plus your own merit. Speak to your soul.
Susan, you are going through a hard time right now, and you feel sad and all alone….maybe you believe you deserve what’s happening and that God is punishing you. That is not true – Jesus took your punishment on the Cross, God isn’t angry with you, and while you may feel alone, you are not alone. He promised to be with you and this trial is not proof that God doesn’t love you or care about you; in fact, He hurts along with you.
B. You have been hurt. You feel the person that hurt you should suffer, and though you may not think it consciously, you are going to help God deal with him by withdrawing or finding ways to drive the knife in. Speak to your soul.
This one is very, very hard, because that is my default – to withdraw. I was listening this week to a sermon by Alistair Begg, and he was talking about Jesus’ hard teaching on loving our enemies. What helped me was he said that we don’t have to feel feelings of love for the person – they really might be a “rascal” and we don’t have to try to drum up emotional feelings of love in order to love. I always believed that I had to feel that I loved them, and guilty if the truth was, I rather did not like them at all. The truth I need to speak to myself is that once God forgives me, He doesn’t retaliate against me or give me the cold shoulder. If I’m doing this to someone, then I haven’t really forgiven them. Lord, I find it so hard to let go of grudges, to not nurse resentment and why I am right and they are wrong. Please help me remember that at the Cross, every single one of us is on level ground, and I need Your forgiveness just as much as the one who has wronged or hurt me.
C. Your life is stressful. To relieve the stress, you think you need Jesus plus (sugar, shopping, sexual immorality, gossiping to another..) How might you flee temptation and speak to your soul, melting your soul with the gospel?
Stress and boredom, when they come, cry out for relief….how easy to grab my phone and do some shopping on the Internet, or call someone and tell them how upset someone made me feel, or start to daydream….but Jesus is standing there waiting for me to come to Him instead, and what He offers is so much better and lasting…is He my Lord, or not? Or am I trading worship of Him for worshipping material things? Who is the one who laid down his life for me?
Oh Lord, we can’t — but You can. Do a mighty work that will astonish even Susan and those who have hurt her!
7. Read Galatians 1:6-9
A. Describe Paul’s tone.
If he were talking to them in person, he might be doing a lot of gesturing and speaking with vehemence….he says “I am amazed….” he is shocked, it’s disbelief how quickly they are turning away from the truth.
B. Why is this righteous indignation?
Paul cares about these people and is very distressed that people are coming to them and worrying them, distorting the gospel. He feels protective of these believers.
C. What do verses 8-9 say should happen to a person who preaches a different gospel?
That person should be “accursed”.
14. What heredity do we have as believers which makes obedience possible?
As a believer I have begun the process of regeneration. Jesus has put His own heredity of holiness into me…I have been begotten again with entirely new DNA!
15. Why must we come to the end of ourselves to receive this power?
Jesus is ever the gentleman…He will not force the process…the Holy Spirit enters us at the time of our salvation and is ready to begin the process of regeneration as soon as we are ready to relinquish our control on the process. My regeneration process will take the rest of my earthly life until at last I am birthed into His kingdom.
16. What stands out to you from this essay and why?
Blessed are the poor in Spirit…for they are now, at last, free to begin the process of regeneration…and will inherit the kingdom! Only true heirs can receive the inheritance! God cannot put into me, the responsible moral person that I am, the nature that was in Jesus Christ unless I am aware of my need for it. As long as I cling to my own sense of righteousness my hands are too full to receive His. The hard truths of scripture are not meant to be applied to “moral mankind” but to those who have been given a new and holy nature! So, I don’t have to sweat my “moral failures” any longer because that old person can never live the new life…but, I do need to repent and come into agreement with the work of the Holy Spirit.
17. Share a time when you experienced this power at work within you.
Having grown up in a faith filled home and having known and believed in Jesus all my life…it wasn’t until I faced these hard truths that my faith really became my own. I knew that I was powerless to live the kind of life I wanted to live…the kind of life I knew Christ wanted me to live. I cried out to God from that desperate place of trying to do good works from the place of my old heredity + my sense of morality which = total failure. It was only then that the process of regeneration really began. That was many years ago and I confess that the process has truly been a Pilgrim’s Progress filled with starts and stops, sloughs of despond, and many a detour as well.
18. What is your take-a-way and why?
I am confident that He who began this good work of regeneration will complete it…because His word tells me that He is not only the author of my faith (saved from the penalty of sin) but the finisher of my faith also (saved from the power of sin).
We can all relate to Pilgrim’s Progress!
7. Read Galatians 1:6-9
A. Describe Paul’s tone. Paul’s tone is serious, urgent, clear and with a damnable consequence for perversion of the true gospel message.
B. Why is this righteous indignation? a reaction of anger over the mistreatment of another
C. What do verses 8-9 say should happen to a person who preaches a different gospel? The person would be placed under a curse.
8. Apply this to being saved from the power of sin.
A. Where do you tend to run, other than God, when you are stressed, bored, or depressed? In today’s world there are so many distractions to what is truely important. Just think about life 100 years age…limited transportation, food, money, media. All of these things are big distractions and addictions in society today. For me, I have used food, shopping, busyness, tv and phones as a source of comfort and distraction when I am stressed.
B. Now, in this situation practice melting your heart with the gospel. God you are my true source and peace only comes from you. Forgive me from running to other things to fill my life. I need you and you alone. Thank you for all of your promises to me…cast your care on me, for I care for you, my burden is light and my yoke is easy, be anxious for nothing, I give the peace that passes all understanding. Your word is truth, it is the way, help me to make you my source, my all and my everything.
Wednesday: Is Your Religion Manmade or from God?
9. What does Galatians 1:10 say? How could this help us stand firm on the gospel? If we seek to be man pleasers we will not please God.
10. What does Galatians 1:11 say? Paul says the message he preaches does not come from man.
Last Thursday we had our first Bible study using SonShip, which is based on Galatians. We have unbelievers in our group. How I long for them to see that Christianity is not a manmade religion, as are all the others. I had prepared these questions if it came up — but it didn’t:
Do you think it is possible that some religions are manmade and therefore prone to error? Yes
Do you think, if there is a God, that He might be capable of revealing Himself and His truth? Of course!
11. What question might you ask those who feel it is wrong to say there is only one way to God and that is is Jesus? Is your way alive, full of peace, satisfying to the soul, giving you life’s true meaning and providing the missing connection that only Jesus can provide?
Good responses, Tami.
Saturday:
18. What is your take-a-way and why?
I think the song “The Solid Rock” summarizes the theme of this study-true salvation and justification by faith.
When He shall come with trumpet sound
Oh may I then in Him be found
Dressed in His righteousness alone
Faultless to stand before the throne.
On Christ, the Solid Rock I stand
All other ground is sinking sand
All other ground is sinking sand.
Dee, thank you for this study. You have done great in all the studies I have participated in but this one takes the cake for me. You have given us/me the cream of the crop food of the Word-assurance of salvation and the surety of a room in Heaven. Nothing can separate us from His love. Thank you! And praise the Lord!
SO I was downloading some sheet music and an MP3 for my son and heard True Worship by Michael Reeves and thought of our study. I will post the link below.
Here is the link. Click on True Worship by Michael Reeves. It so goes with our study and is REALLY wonderful!