I’ve always applied the passage in Galatians 5 to me as an individual. If I abide in Christ, and He abides in me, Jesus promises, I will bear much fruit — the fruit Galatians 5 describes. For Christianity is not mechanical, like other religions, but organic. Our fruit comes not from striving, but from abiding in the living Christ. All we need to do is abide, and then His life flows into us through His Spirit, producing the fruit of His Spirit listed in Galatians 5.
But I have come to see this also applies to individual congregations.
If they are abiding in Him and His Word, they will thrive.
If they let go of their grasp on the True Vine,
they will die.
Two years ago I received a warm invitation from a United Methodist Church in Columbus, Georgia to speak at their women’s retreat. My immediate thought was, “Oh, I’m going. I can bring them the good news!”
I jumped to the erroneous conclusion that being United Methodists, they probably no longer had a vibrant relationship with the Lord.
I live in Wisconsin, and my experience with the United Methodist Church in the north is that, for the most part, individual churches have drifted from their beautiful roots. They have removed songs about the blood from their hymnals. (Some have even removed their own Charles Wesley’s 2nd most popular hymn: And Can It Be?) Despite the overwhelming evidence, these churches no longer believe Jesus literally died and was raised again, but instead, that it is just a beautiful metaphor — telling us something like: “Cheer up, because spring always follows winter.” (Tim Keller quips: “Do you really think that message would have turned the world up-side-down?”) They pick and choose which parts of Scripture they want to believe, and are swayed by whatever the current culture believes. And because they are no longer abiding in the Vine, life is ebbing away. Much research supports this, but I thought I’d show you an article from a liberal newspaper, to show you that even their research supports this. (I can’t seem to give a link to it without them asking you to pay, but if you google Liberal Churches Are Dying and click on The Washington Post article, you’ll be allowed to read it. It is a fascinating read and a good warning to all of us.)
So I came to the wrong and prideful assumption that this church in Georgia had lost its roots and God was sending me to rescue them! However, my continuing conversations with Suzanne, the woman who invited me, began to make me wonder if indeed this church was abiding, alive, and vibrant. Could it be?
Yes! I found a group of women who loved the Lord deeply, grasped the gospel firmly, and were abiding in Christ. This is much more common of mainline denominations in the south than it is in the north, but now they too are facing formidable storms that could potentially result in their loosening their grasp on the True Vine and lead to their demise. In particular, the two issues facing the United Methodist Church (and this is true of other mainline denominations) are part of the LGBT+ agenda:
- Redefine marriage away from God’s plan (which is repeated 6 times in Scripture) of one man and one woman for life
- Ordain practicing homosexuals
The winds are fierce and those who resist are labeled as bigots. It was fascinating to listen in on the conversations of those preparing for the impending storm. The African United Methodist Church is conservative, and has regularly kept the North American United Methodist Church from going astray, but now the pressure is intense. The African Methodists ask the North American Methodists a penetrating question:
Centuries ago Christian missionaries from the north told us our practice of polygamy was wrong,
defiling God’s plan for marriage and His covering for the family.
So though it was hard and costly, we put away polygamy.
So why do you now come to us,
demanding we abandon God’s definition of marriage
and support gay marriage?
St Luke church in Columbus, Georgia, and her sister Methodist churches who are still abiding, are God’s remnant for what was once a beautiful denomination. We must pray for them and see them as a model of clinging to the True Vine when the storm winds blow. Pray they (and we!) seek the praise of God rather than the praise of man. Pray they (and we!) see the enemy’s lies, for Satan is intent on finding ways to loosen our grip on the Vine and getting us to throw away our only lifeline.
Truly, it was thrilling to me, after being so disappointed in the deadness of the north, to see this life! While many in the north would like to dismiss their southern churches as being un-enlightened, that would not describe the body I met. These were believers of depth, many sophisticated and cultured, yet not trusting in their worldly gifts. Their “vineyard” is laden with fruit and I heard testimony after testimony of those who had been the grateful recipients of that fruit. One woman at the retreat wept as she told me how she has been loved into the body of believers. She lives in subsidized housing and regularly invites her neighbors to the free dinners at St Luke Church provides for those in need. She said, “They don’t see me as any different from them — I am embraced as part of their family.”
I also heard wonderful stories of those in the gay lifestyle being loved by those at St Luke who hold to God’s Word yet love well, knowing we all are sinners. One practicing homosexual man who was invited into a home over the holidays said, “I will not stand to hear it said ever again that this couple are bigots.” We all struggle with various kinds of sin from birth, and we all need support to be set free, not enablement that keeps us in chains.
As I was praying about who might support filming a curriculum for my upcoming book: The Jesus Who Surprises, it was St Luke United Methodist Church in Columbus, Georgia, that came to mind. They sought the Lord on this, and then came running to help produce an amazing video that will be free online. It will go into prisons, to congregations that are not affluent, and to any who want it when the book is released this July.
I was overwhelmed at their response, but also, at God’s goodness in bringing us together, and bestowing one gift upon another on us. St. Luke has an incredibly talented cameraman named Justin who is passionate to serve the Lord. 21 women who had been through my study on Idol Lies signed up to do a crash course in The Jesus Who Surprises over the holidays so that they could be prepared to give individual testimonies on what God taught them. We were allowed to film the video in and outside of the historic W.C. Bradley buildings along the beautiful Chattahoochee River. The presence of the Lord was palpable, and we all sensed Him with us. We had storms on either side of the shoot, but it was clear and calm for the actual shoot. I want to show you just a few pictures so that you can marvel with me at what God did. And indeed, you are part of this, for you prayed, and God heard and answered.
A month ago Justin sent me some footage he took of this site — of the river and the kayakers. I had no idea this would be the scene, and I immediately thought, What a wonderful picture of this beautiful but broken and perilous earth — and of how we need Jesus to navigate the rapids.
This beautiful brick room with great windows looking out at the river had been transformed: chairs brought in, foliage put on the wall, and anointed with His Spirit. We all sensed we were in a holy place, for He was there!
On the second day of the shoot, the women came into another building, individually, to share their stories of how God met them during this study. This is Suzanne with me and Justin, and I remember how she shared so poignantly on how fruit comes not despite suffering, but because of it. I cannot wait for you to hear the testimonies God gave to these women!
These two days of filming happened between two storms. I was scheduled to fly out of Milwaukee last Sunday, but a formidable snowstorm was to begin two hours before my scheduled flight. Many of you prayed, and I was able to get on a 5:55 A. M. flight instead, beating the storm! Then, shortly after we finished filming, a fierce windstorm hit Columbus, knocking the power out. That night Suzanne and the pastor’s wife, Mary Pat, had planned a dinner to celebrate what God had done. It was held by candlelight and was a most memorable evening, filled with love, joy, and the light which the darkness cannot overcome.
Sunday:
1.What stands out to you from the above and why?
Monday: The Wesley Brothers and The Gospel
Charles Wesley wrote so many beloved hymns, including Hark the Herald Angels Sing and And Can It Be? To prepare your heart, sing along with this, pondering the lyrics, letting them penetrate your heart. Watch for good theology as you sing.
2. Share two examples of good theology from “And Can It Be?”
In the free message by Tim Keller this week, you will hear how once both Luther and the Wesley brothers thought Christianity was “mechanical,” that character was achieved by striving rather than abiding. But then they were overwhelmed by the gospel — first Luther, and then the Wesley brothers in reading Luther’s preface to Galatians. (If you just joined us and would like to read it, you can find a paraphrase by Tim Keller here: this pdf,)
3. Read Galatians 5:16-18.
A. What two natures are in conflict with each other?
B. What does Paul tell us to do in verse 18? What do you think this means?
My friend Twila, who has memorized Galatians, Romans, Hebrews, and much more, and I have been discussing this. She articulates that we are free from all the Mosaic Law, including the Ten Commandments, for they have all been fulfilled in Christ. That doesn’t mean we are free to sin, but rather, we now live not by the Law, but by the Spirit. That Spirit, according to Romans 2:15 puts the moral law into our hearts. We are guided by the Word, but the One we obey is the Spirit, not the Law. And we obey the Spirit, not to achieve favor with God, but out of grateful joy, for we already have favor with God through the forgiveness bought by Christ Jesus.
4. What are your thoughts on the above?
5. Now, backtrack to Galatians 5:13-15
A. What is Paul not saying according to verse 13?
B. What principle can always guide us according to verses 14?
C. How is that elaborated on according to verse 15?
Tuesday: The Fruit of the Sinful Nature and the Fruit of the Spirit
6. Read Galatians 5:19-21
A. If instead of walking by the Spirit, we gratify the flesh, what kind of things does it lead to? List a few that stand out.
B. Why does Paul make the statement he does in verse 21? How could this be mis-interpreted?
7. Read Galatians 5:22-25
A. List the fruit of the Spirit.
B. Why do you think the Word says fruit instead of fruits?
C. Tim Keller, in the sermon you will hear over the next few days, says that if you don’t have evidences of all of the fruit, you may not have any. Why, do you think?
8. What do you think it means to “keep in step with the Spirit?” Give an illustration, if possible.
9. Pastor Beckham. of St Luke Church in Columbus, Ga, says we need to always cling to principle, but not to procedure. What do you think this means for making decisions in a church?
Wednesday-Thursday: Free Keller Sermon: How To Change
10. Listen to the following message over the next two days and share your notes and comments.
Friday: Reflecting on Keller’s Sermon
I remember taking home a planted seed from Sunday School as a child, and watching it to see if it would grow. It didn’t seem to, yet after days, I could see a little sprout appearing!
11. Fruit is gradual. You may feel you are not growing, but if you look back five or ten years, can you see growth? If so, where?
12. Fruit is inevitable! How can you see this promise in John 15:5?
What the Law does do is lead us to Christ, for we find we simply do not have the power in ourselves to obey the Law. The best we can do in our own power is a charade — stapling on fruit for the sake of a good appearance. Pretending to be peaceful, joyful, or self-controlled.
13. Fruit is internal — not brought about by mechanical external means but by the Spirit breathing life into us. Have you experienced this? If so, share something about it.
How intriguing that Keller said that if you don’t have evidence of all the fruit, you may not have any. Your evidences of some of the fruit may simply be evidence of a pleasing Meyers-Brigg nature, rather than the Spirit producing fruit.
14. Fruit is symmetrical. Do you see at least the buds of the various descriptions of the fruit of the Spirit in you?
Saturday:
15. What is your take-a-way and why?
141 comments
1. What stands out to you from the above and why?
How our Lord so beautifully orchestrated all of this ~ being invited to speak by this Methodist church in the south, their individual stories all coming together for this filming, the cameraman with a heart to serve, timing between storms and how God has preserved a remnant of life and truth within the Methodist denomination.
My husband was raised in a Methodist church that sadly “watered down” the truth. He eventually met the Lord at age 19 (not in that church). Years later, we became involved in a truth-bearing Methodist Church. The Pastor here in the north preached the gospel and many began coming to Christ, some in their 70’s and 80’s. Part of what initiated that movement was the Pastor’s invitation to a group called Lay Witness Mission. A team of people came to our little Wyoming town for one week. They stayed in our homes. They told their beautiful, redemptive stories. Hearts were moved. (Lay Witness Mission started in a Methodist prayer cell in the early 1970’s and has grown into an inter-denominational ministry active across state lines as well as ministering in many other countries. The common goal of a Lay Witness Mission is to see Jesus lifted up and the Holy Spirit move in power and authority.)
Sadly, as time went on, our pastor moved and the Methodist district superintendent insisted that a liberal pastor replace him. Long story short, the new believers in that church had tasted and seen that the Lord is good and they pulled out of the Methodist Church in a mass transit. My husband had been leading a bible study in the church and they came to him one night and asked him to be their pastor. He pastored that wonderful group of believers for nine years. And that is another story in itself.
So your story about this Methodist Church in Georgia really hits home with me, Dee.
It is an honor to be a part of the prayer team around the filming last week. I know that the Lord will use this in such life-giving, redemptive ways. Grateful for your willingness to go. Thank you.
What a story, Nila! And so accentuates why those who lose their grasp are also dying. How wonderful to hear about the Lay Witness group.
Nila, thank you for sharing about your and your husband’s pastoral journey with the Methodists. And I have not heard of the Lay Witness Mission. I will look it up sometime. Lifting you up today and Mark as well.
I love your story, Nila. It just magnifies the work of Christ, claiming a people among what seems to us as dead. Only He could do this, when we might have written them off. Instructive and encouraging to my heart. Thank you.
Dee, your testimony here had me weeping. For two reasons: the story of how the filming came about for I can see God’s hand written all over it. When we trust and obey, God does the impossible e.g. the calm in between two storms. A similar situation happened to us yesterday. We had a valentine banquet at our church 5-7. We were in between two downpours of snow , the second one being at the end of the banquet. Once we were done, everyone pitched in to clean up to get ready for church for this morning including a couple who were almost 90! The younger guys clean the cars parked outside and took turns scooping snow for a pathway! I could go on and on. The second reason is my sorrow over our united Methodist brothers and sisters. We have a Methodist church here in town and they are “dying” as well due to the issues that you mentioned above. Though they are gone now, my in laws were vibrant members of this church. When they were still alive, they have seen the wind/storm coming. Even my sister in law who was a staunch Methodist is now attending a different church. What a lesson for me to stay abiding and grounded in truth. Lots of tears these days. Lord, help us be a light but also full of love for those who are struggling. May your truth prevail and use us as your instruments of peace and unconditional love. Help us know how to love without compromising your truth.
Great story and great prayer, Bing.
Sunday
I am so excited for you Dee, and can’t wait to read the book and watch the videos. It looks like it was a gorgeous location. I find when stepping out even in small ways things come against me. I find my self on guard ready to see what circumstances will try to interfere. I try to go into the situation rested, organized and with contingency plans in mind. Prayerful, flexible and determined, you were very determined to get to the filming and raced the storm to see it through. When the lights went out, it looks like everyone didn’t let it ruin the occasion. From the photo with the candlelight and your smile, I see much joy and excitement.
Awww — so true, Dawn. I understand planning for Plan B, C….I do it too!
Thank you, Dee, plan B and C, especially for road gigs : )
1. What stands out to you from the above and why? How much I would like to spend a weekend with those women! =)
I also am excited about your new book, Dee! I will look for it!
the article was the biggest stand out to me. It saddens me greatly to hear of the swing towards ‘loose interpretation’ of our God’s Word. I really liked the ‘punchline’ of the article. While the research gave its own reasons for decline of liberal churches I think there is a reason that is very subjective but very influential in whether or not someone stays or goes…. eventually everyone has questions and the answers the Bible gives are sometimes hard or hard to understand or difficult to wrestle with, but they don’t change, so you have solid ground that you’re just trying to figure out how to walk on. If, however, you decide you can interpret the Word however you like, then there is no solid ground, you are walking on quick sand and the more you look and ask the more confusing it gets because it changes and different people are interpreting it different ways and you end up drowning or bailing. I think this is a big contributor to people leaving the faith – they don’t wrestle long enough with real truth to find their footing. It makes me sad, but also convicts me to never stop reading, reading, praying to understand, reading, reading, praying to understand and study, study, study, and pray….
Good application, Jill!
PS Laura and Susan – I responded to you on last week’s blog. My life is kinda crazy hectic right now so I can’t get on every day. Sorry for the slow response!
Got it Jill! Thank you for your thoughtful response. I did listen to a Keller sermon on sex a few years ago; I wonder if it’s the same one? I will go back and check that out, but please forward the sermon title if you find it.
I will go back and look, Jill! I appreciate what you bring to our study when you’re able to be here!
1. What stands out to you from the above and why?
Dee, I love the cover of your new book, “The Jesus Who Surprises”. The imagery of an opening golden gate intertwined with ivy is so inviting!! I am so glad that God is continuing to use you, Dee, in his important work.
Also, it is so great to hear that God is continuing to work even in a denomination that has largely drifted away from the truth of Scripture. It sounds like such a wonderful, caring, godly fellowship.
There is much sad news out there about how lies are being accepted as truth, even by Christians. The strident LGBT+ agenda concerns me greatly.
Thanks, Diane. Yes, Satan is using that quite successfully!
1.What stands out to you from the above and why?
Tears….some of you know I grew up in the southern Methodist church and just a few years ago had to leave for the very reasons you, Dee, bring to our attention today. I decided the joining of gay people in the national Methodist church in Washington, DC was against the church doctrine I had always known. The actual reason I left was a disturbing letter the entire Methodist church community in N.H. received about 10 years ago. It was a request that we acknowledge gays and lesbians, welcome them in our churches, and then the “clincher,” accept them as our leaders and pastors. I could handle the first 2 suggestions, but I didn’t feel that the third was a valid line of our doctrine. My goodness, if you don’t have a standard then what is the point? If anyone can do anything at anytime then that is a mockery of our faith. I am always striving to be a better follower of Christ because I know I’m such a sinner…ugh. Not trying to judge either…I just decided I needed to find like minded people after that letter can to us. I did not agree with the Methodist church. It hurt to leave my life long denomination and it is so sad that they have succumbed to the secular world in which we live. I agree that the south has a better perspective than the northern Methodist churches (I know the south well and I live in the north now).
I am not a bigot. I welcome any homosexual into our congregation. However, I admire that people like Christopher Yuan, and Wesley Hill, although convinced they are homosexual, value their faith to be loyal to Christ. I personally understand that genetics is close to convincing us that aberrations of hormones may create beings that are attracted to the same sex, however I also believe that environment plays a large part in making people believe there is a different way to live than what we have always considered “normal.” For example, a close friend just told me a story of her drug addicted (prescription) brother, whose 11 year old daughter is playing out his mannerisms in day to day life (not “feeling well,” having to rest in bed, etc.). She has no idea her daddy is addicted. I think children living with gay parents will tend to be gay themselves because it is what they know. I see this playing out in our schools. Unfortunately the secular word does not care about faith. The Christian world must stand up for the Bible and not be afraid to in love, give people a choice, by claiming the message of the gospel; a message of eternal life.
So, I am happy in the church we attend at this point in our lives. We welcome any and we follow our doctrine. Some have gotten mad and left. It happens. I am not perfect. I am flawed.
So painful, Laura. The enemy has certainly caused havoc.
No, you are not a bigot. We need to love well and also stand for truth.
Laura, I agree with you in admiring Christopher Yuan and Wesley Hill….Wesley’s testimony, which I believe Dee gave us a link to watch a while back, is wonderful.
Sunday
1. What stands out to you from the above and why?
I liked the fact that the title of your book, “The Jesus Who Surprises”, was a theme in what you found at the church in Georgia…”I jumped to the erroneous conclusion that being United Methodist, they probably no longer had a vibrant relationship with the Lord.” And you found just the opposite which was a pleasant surprise! It saddens me with what is happening within the Methodist Church. Our pastors father-in-law, a retired Methodist pastor is going to be pulling himself out that denomination because of the changes taking place and will therefore forfeit his retirement. I really believe God will honor his decision as per the article you asked us to read, he’s unwilling to “shift Christianity to meet the needs of the modern world.” Oh how important it is to remember that “All Scripture is inspired by God…”. II Timothy 3:16a
What a model of faith in your pastor’s father-in-law. And yes, Jesus surprised me! 🙂
Sharon, wow! Grace upon grace to your pastor’s father-in-law. I did not know that they can forfeit his retirement.
Wow, Sharon, for someone to “forfeit his retirement” because of his stand against the denomination! Being near retirement as my husband is and depending on the pension from the denomination that he has ministered in for many, many years, this would be an extreme sacrifice! What a sacrifice he is making for his Lord! What hardship he and his family may suffer! What an example of trust for me that is close to home! Would I have courage to do that?
1.What stands out to you from the above and why?
We are in Revelation at church and today’s message was on the church at Sardis, the church with a reputation for being alive, but is actually dead–interesting parallels to this lesson!
But honestly, and this is often the case!, I am most struck by Dee’s example. I remember when you went to speak at this church 2 years ago, you were not expecting to find such fruit, yet you went out of obedience, and He blessed you with such encouragement. To know that He had set that in motion to now have you go back for the filming…it’s such a sweet tapestry He’s woven. But what strikes me most is your example of holding to God’s Word, and yet loving well, “knowing we all are sinners”.
Another “simple” thing that strikes me deep though is this example of our union in Christ. Seeing the picture of you all at the table–it looks like a family gathering, and it is! There is a joy, fellowship, and the one unifying factor is that you are all believers, making you family. There can be so much dissension among denominations, yet if we share the essential Truth, we are family. Sorry, a bit jumbled in thought, but excited for the week! 🙂
Isn’t that the truth — often our family in Christ is our deepest family, despite enormous other differences!
1. What stood out? You wrote that “I came to the wrong and prideful assumption that this church had lost its roots”. That made me think of Elijah. Elijah thought he was the only believer left, but God said He had preserved a remnant of thousands. It is a lie of the devil that we are alone as believers. We are not. God has fellowship for us if we just allow Him to always direct us.
The Post article was most interesting. Makes me think of the kings of Judah, who, when inheriting the throne were likely to set their sails in the wrong direction. Then when it went poorly, they would try all the harder, but still in the wrong direction.
Such a good summary of what is happening to the liberal church:
Then when it went poorly, they would try all the harder, but still in the wrong direction.
What stands out to me, and why probably has really nothing to do with our current study. So many things stand out to me, and I’ve written them out in my study notebook tonight. But I just would like to say that your testimony, Dee, is such an encouragement. I think of your life, with losing your husband, and how so many would just curl up in a ball and live out the rest of their lives selfishly, nursing their wounds. I see you ‘on the go’ incessantly to do our Father’s work. Your husband would be so pleased. And God is using you in so many ways. Just wanted to say thank you for being a good example to me. I love this current study and long to see the fruit of the Spirit in my own life. I like your reference to those with pleasant Meyers-Briggs personality characteristics and how so often those are looked upon as fruit of the Spirit. If God could produce the fruit of the Spirit in me, it would definitely be all of Him, and not my own pleasant personality because I am bankrupt in that regard. It’s so encouraging for people like me who were born ornery and cranky to know that abiding in the Vine and walking/being led by the Spirit can still produce those lovely fruit which we crave.
For someone “born ornery and cranky” you surely are a balm and a blessing. Must be the fruit of the Spirit! 🙂
Miriam, I heartily agree with everything you said about Dee!!
Sunday:
1.What stands out to you from the above and why? Wow! How exciting that you are on the front lines bringing truth to woman. Surrounded by storms but persevering with your plans and God making a way as you had to alter your plans to escape the impending storm. This brings to mind modern warfare while on a mission. Dee, I am glad you didn’t have to take a boat to get to your destination! In the US, we are not imprisoned for preaching the good news or beaten with rods but our persecution comes in other forms…weather conditions, difficult people, sickness and various obstacles. I don’t think many realize how alive our God is and how active the devil can be in our day to day activities! Praise God for his provision. I can’t wait to read the book and watch the film!
Thanks, Tami — so true — the enemy has many devices! But greater is He.
R2. Share two examples of good theology from “And Can It Be?”
I love the verse about the dungeon and being “struck” by light. His chains came off and he was free. And the last verse as well:
“Long my imprisoned spirit lay,
Fast bound in sin and nature’s night;
Thine eye diffused a quick’ning ray—
I woke, the dungeon flamed with light;
My chains fell off, my heart was free,
I rose, went forth, and followed Thee.
No condemnation now I dread;
Jesus, and all in Him, is mine;
Alive in Him, my living Head,
And clothed in righteousness divine,
Bold I approach th’ eternal throne,
And claim the crown, through Christ my own.”
So sweet.
3. Read Galatians 5:16-18.
A. What two natures are in conflict with each other?
The spirit and the flesh.
B. What does Paul tell us to do in verse 18? What do you think this means?
We are to be led by the Spirit, and we will not be under the law. I think he wants us to ask Christ, in all situations, for guidance first. We shouldn’t disregard the law, just realize that Earthly possessions and ideas are not the focus of our lives. We abide by Gods laws and ways. If we do so then the earthly things are taken care of naturally.
4. What are your thoughts on the above?
Easier said than done I’m afraid. “I do the things I shouldn’t…”
5. Now, backtrack to Galatians 5:13-15
A. What is Paul not saying according to verse 13?
You are called to be free but that doesn’t mean all will be free.
B. What principle can always guide us according to verses 14?
We should love each other as we love ourselves.
C. How is that elaborated on according to verse 15?
If we don’t love each other and we treat each other poorly we end up destroying each other .
Love that you printed off those amazing lyrics from And Can It Be! You can sense the joy in Wesley’s heart.
2. Share two examples of good theology from “And Can It Be?”
I do love this hymn 🙂
No condemnation now I dread;
Jesus and all in Him is mine;
Alive in Him, my living Head,
Romans 8:1 There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.
And clothed in righteousness divine,
Bold I approach the eternal throne,
And claim the crown, through Christ my own.
Hebrews 4:16 “Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need.”
2. Two good theology examples from the hymn.
Jesus’s blood was shed for us and Jesus is God incarnate.
3.a. Two natures in conflict, the Holy Spirit and the sinful nature.
b. Paul says when we are led by the Spirit, we are not under the law. I think this means that instead of trying harder to do what the law says, you trust in God’s Spirit to help you do what is right and you are able to live in freedom.
What stood out to me were two things. One, is our propensity for making assumptions…for it is equally as true that we make assumptions about our fellow brothers and sisters in Christ as that we as believers make assumptions about those who profess unbelief. For example, I have encountered churches that were dying because they were so afraid of anything related to the Holy Spirit that they refused to let that part of the Trinity bring life and fruit. They clung tightly to their traditions out of fear. I have feared the Presbyterian Church of America as a denomination that has a tendency to be too legalistic…yet that is exactly where I am a member now. God is at work in the most unlikely of all places…the human heart😊
The other thing that stood out to me is the many ways in which the church you went to film in loved others so well! The church, myself included, has often struggled to reach out in love to those that are perceived as living a sinful lifestyle such as homosexuality. It was so encouraging to read that… We all struggle with various kinds of sin from birth, and we all need support to be set free, not enablement that keeps us in chains.
Didn’t know you were a PCA sister — so much good in that denomination, yet legalism could quench His Spirit — so we pray!
2. Share two examples of good theology from “And Can it Be”.
* When it refers to the dungeon he was released from and the chains falling off, that he was no longer an imprisoned spirit. (Gal 5:1)
* When it says, No condemnation now I dread. (Romans 8:1)
Dee, this Keller paraphrase of Martin Luther’s intro to Galations that you included here is so helpful. I’m so grateful that you introduced me to the idea (a few years ago) of “applying the gospel” to everything. This has been like an I-V drip of continual hope in my life. Thank you. Here are Keller’s closing words in that summary:
So learn to “speak the Gospel” to one’s heart. For example, when the law creeps into your
conscience, learn to be a cunning logician—learn to use arguments of the Gospel against it.
Say:
O law! You would climb up into the kingdom of my conscience, and there reign and
condemn me for sin, and would take from me the joy of my heart which I have by faith in
Christ, and drive me to desperation, that I might be without hope. You have overstepped
your bounds. Know your place! You are a guide for my behavior, but you are not Savior
and Lord of my heart. For I am baptized, and through the Gospel am called to receive
righteousness and eternal life…So trouble me not!
Love this: an I-V drip of continual hope in my life
One way I regularly apply the gospel is through music ~ speaking the truth to my soul. Often, the battle involves self-accusation. This Andrew Peterson song entitled Be Kind to Yourself has helped me more than once. This excerpt:
I know it’s hard to hear it when that anger in your spirit
Is pointed like an arrow at your chest
When the voices in your mind are anything but kind
And you can’t believe your Father knows best…….
How does it end when the war that you’re in
Is just you against you against you
Gotta learn to love, learn to love
Learn to love your enemies too
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sYiM-sOC6nE
I AM CRAZY ABOUT HIS LYRICS!
Wow! What powerful lyrics, Nila. The voices in my head … I am my own worst enemy.
Oh my goodness, I love these lyrics
Monday
2. Share two examples of good theology from “ And Can it Be?”
Died for me, who caused His pain
My chains fell off, my heart was free
3. Read Galatians 5:16-18
A. What two natures are in conflict with each other?
The Spirit and the flesh/sinful nature
B. What does Paul tell us to do in verse 18? What do you think this means?
He tells us to be led by the Spirit because we are not under the Law. If we live according to the Law we fall back into works and become slaves to our sinful nature. But if led by the Spirit, we choose freedom. I like this quote by Kenneth Wuest…”The mistake that is made so often is that the Mosaic law is substituted for the restraint of the Holy Spirit, and with disastrous results… A policeman on the street corner is a far more efficient deterrent of law- breaking than any number of city ordinances placarded for republic notice.”
4. What are your thoughts on the above?
I agree with it. I like that it’s expressed…”That doesn’t mean we are free to sin.” My daughter went to college with a girl who told her that according to her denomination (won’t tell you which one) that they could sin as long as they asked forgiveness and sin again and again! My daughter quoted from Romans 6:1-2, “Well then, should we keep on sinning so that God can show us more and more of His wonderful grace? Of course not! Since we have died to sin, how can we continue to live in it?” The sad part was, her life was evident that she was abusing grace and I really feared if she was saved at all.
5. Now backtrack to Galatians 5:13-15
A. What is Paul not saying according to verse 13?
That we can use our freedom to satisfy our sinful nature.
B. What principle can always guide us according to verse 14?
That the whole law is summed up in one command: love your neighbor as yourself.
C. How is that elaborated on according to verse 15?
If we’re biting and devouring one another rather that loving one another we’ll end up destroying one another.
2. Share two examples of good theology from “And Can It Be?”
“And bled for Adam’s helpless race; ‘Tis mercy all, immense and free”
”No condemnation now I dread… Alive in Him… clothed in righteousness Divine”
3. Read Galatians 5:16-18.
A. What two natures are in conflict with each other? The human fleshy desires and the Holy Spirit dwelling in us.
B. What does Paul tell us to do in verse 18? What do you think this means? In the ESV it does not read like Paul telling us to do something but rather an if/then statement, “IF you are led by the Spirit, [THEN] you are not under the law.” It means that when the Spirit abides in you, it leads you, not to fulfill the law but in agreement with the heart of the law.
4. What are your thoughts on the above? I really love how Twila articulated this and it makes sense that the Spirit would guide us in line with the original law, for the heart and intention behind it was good! (To protect us, to proclaim God’s holiness, as well as paint the Gospel.) I was taught as a teenager that if you felt led to do something and it contradicted Scripture then it couldn’t be from the Spirit. Twila’s words here help me see that wisdom in even clearer light – the same Trinity that gave the Law guides our actions and decisions now, God has not changed therefore what He would guide us to do now, at the heart, would not change.
5. Now, backtrack to Galatians 5:13-15
A. What is Paul not saying according to verse 13? That you should adopt an “anything goes” attitude in regards to your choices and actions.
B. What principle can always guide us according to verses 14? Love your neighbor as yourself. (Which means more than just doing to them what you wish to be done to yourself, but instead loving them enough to understand and empathize with where they are on their journey, invest in them, pray for them, understand their viewpoint instead of just talking at them…).
C. How is that elaborated on according to verse 15? It seems to present the dichotomy … if you don’t love then you will be prone to bite and devour, argue and isolate, offend and bully, your neighbors. The implication is that the conflict he is warning against is internal, with fellow brothers, not with outsiders. And truly, this very things has made many bodies and individuals weak and ultimately fall.
Jill, your response to 5B is such a challenge and encouragement to me to listen more than I speak.
The ministry of listening which leads to understanding and empathy.
PASSING ON TO TWILA 😉
Monday
2.The blood of Christ, the free gift of God’s mercy.
3A. The human nature, flesh, and the Holy Spirit.
B. Be lead by the Spirit, when we look to the things of God and are intently listening and looking for Him, our minds and actions become focused on His will. Looking at the law can increase sin.
4A. “That doesn’t mean we are free to sin, but rather, we now live not by the Law, but by the Spirit. That Spirit, according to Romans 2:15 puts the moral law into our hearts. We are guided by the Word, but the One we obey is the Spirit, not the Law. And we obey the Spirit, not to achieve favor with God, but out of grateful joy, for we already have favor with God through the forgiveness bought by Christ Jesus.” So very well articulated.
5A. Don’t be puffed up and look down upon or use your freedom to condemn others.
B. It is an excellent rule of thumb when we are walking in love we are more likely to be on the right track.
C. He gives an example of what happens when love is not prioritized over selfishness.
2. Share two examples of good theology from “And Can It Be?”
I love the 4th & 5th stanzas which speak of how the Gospel brings freedom from the power of sin, the obedience gained by the Spirit equipping us to follow, the pardoning of the penalty, and the riches of mercy we receive! :”…My chains fell off, my heart was free, I rose, went forth, and followed thee. No condemnation now I dread; Jesus, and all in him, is mine”
And I really like the very end “Bold I approach the eternal throne”, this boldness we have strikes me because it is only because of the Cross that I can imagine myself bold before God. “And claim the crown, through Christ my own”–such a humbling yet empowering truth–the beauty of our inheritance.
I just found this from Gospel Coalition on “And Can It Be”, ” written immediately after Charles Wesley’s conversion (May 21, 1738). Wesley knew his Bible well prior to this time, but had not yet experienced assurance of new birth or the fulness of grace in his life.”
It gives Scriptural references to each line.
https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/blogs/justin-taylor/charles-wesleys-and-can-it-be-background-and-scriptural-allusions/
GREAT ARTICLE. I didn’t know if was right after his conversion, but it surely sounds like it. I sent this to J. R. — his favorite hymn. Thanks, Lizzy.
Sunday:
1.What stands out to you from the above and why? – WOW!!! So many blessings. I never thought of that scripture in a way that it could also apply to the church, I thought it was an individual scripture to us and children of God. How God used you and St. Luke Church, how you paths crossed earlier and how they winded around to be used again for filming. God is so amazing and has everything in HIS control. We need to slow down, stop talking, complaining, groaning, or whatever else we may be doing and listen for His voice. I would love to have his voice speak to me through my navigation apps. How fun would that be.
This is so timing, for here in Chicagoland. Just this last week, a well known Pastor and author was fired from the church he founded. How sad for his congregation who put their trust in him and the elders. Believing that they would take care of them as they were appointed to be leaders. Now the congregants have to find the faith they need to stay strong and connected to the vine and not let this incident sway them to leave His side. How sad now to see this verse come to light in a new way. Perhaps this Pastor and Elders let go of the Vine?
That is such a sad situation, Julie. I think the bad fruit has been evident in him for a long time, but it is always hard to see in one so charismatic. But I could be wrong.
2. Share two examples of good theology from “And Can It Be?” – WOW this song when I really listen and sing along shows just how much my Father loves me. “Emptied Himself of all but love and bled for Adams helpless race.”; Amazing love – How can it be, that Thou, my God, shouldst die for me.”; My chains fell off, my heart was free, I rose, went forth and followed Thee.”
This shows so, so much of the love of my Heavenly Father. How a sinner like me could still be loved by Him.
3. Share two examples of good theology from “And Can It Be?”
a.Amazing love! How can it be,
That Thou, my God, shouldst die for me?
(John 3:16 )
b.He left His Father’s throne above—
So free, so infinite His grace—
Emptied Himself of all but love,
And bled for Adam’s helpless race:
’Tis mercy all, immense and free,
For, O my God, it found out me!
(Philippians 2: 6-8)
c. No condemnation now I dread;
Jesus, and all in Him, is mine;
Alive in Him, my living Head,
And clothed in righteousness divine,
Bold I approach th’ eternal throne,
And claim the crown, through Christ my own.
(Romans 8:1)
4. Read Galatians 5:16-18.
A. What two natures arein conflict with each other?
The flesh (law) and the Spirit
B.What does Paul tell us to do in verse 18? What do you think this means?
Be led by the Spirit.
Whatever the Spirit leads us to do is of God. We no longer live bound by the do’s
and don’t based on works and consequence of punishment if we don’t measure up.
But rather, out of love for what Jesus has done for us.
5. Now, backtrack to Galatians 5:13-15
A. What is Paul not saying according to verse 13?
Not to use our liberty to satisfy the flesh
B.What principle can always guide us according to verses 14?
The principle of loving others
C.How is that elaborated on according to verse 15?
We consumed one another if we bite and devour one another.
We destroy others if we operate on “what’s in it for me?” . If I am self serving, I will always have
the tendency to blame the other person if things do not turn out the way I want
it to.
Sunday: What stood out to me was the whole story Dee, of your filming;…. of fellowship with the church in Georgia; & the sweet fallout that is continuing…the ripple effect from your obedience. Oh how God blesses that abundantly. Such an encouragement to me to be faithful & willing to step out for Him & see what He will do!!! Yes, Jesus Surprises! 🙂
I haven’t been on here much lately with work schedule, but want to stay in touch when I can. I will definitely listen to Tim Keller later in the week 🙂
Thank you Dee for your passion & faithfulness to the Lord!
I apologize for the margins of my comments above. I don’t know what happened.
4. The Ten Commandments are actually a way for us to see God’s character. He is wholly holy. He values and esteemed people. He is faithful. He does not lie or cheat or steal or covet. When we follow His Holy Spirit, we follow in the steps of His character and more and more conform to the law just by our love for Him. We aren’t frustrated or vainly striving, but with joy and peace we abide in Him.
5.a. Paul is not saying to go ahead and do whatever your old nature wants to do.
b. When we love others as we love ourselves, that fulfills the law. We will automatically choose to do good to them and not evil.
c. Verse15 shows what life is like if we follow our sinful nature. We tear into each other, biting and devouring one another.
2. Share two examples of good theology from “And Can It Be?”
Christ died in my place and my release was bought with His blood.
3. Read Galatians 5:16-18.
A. What two natures are in conflict with each other?
The flesh and the Spirit.
B. What does Paul tell us to do in verse 18? What do you think this means?
“We are to choose to be led by the Spirit and so escape the erratic compulsions of a law-dominated existence.” The Message I think this means to saturate ourselves in the Word sp that we more easily recognize the promptings of the Holy Spirit and learn to walk accordingly.
4. What are your thoughts on the above?
It may be splitting hairs but I feel like we have been set free to now embody the law in much the same way Christ did when he came to earth to fulfill all the law and the prophets…for at long last I am free to love others as I love myself and I am free to love the Lord my God with all my heart, soul, mind and strength! We are not free from the law in the sense of being free to be lawless but in being free to obey from a heart of love! In one sense the law was like my first husband and Christ came to put to death that husband in order that I might be free to be wed to my true husband, one who has loved me with an everlasting love and who would not stand to see me bound to another!
5. Now, backtrack to Galatians 5:13-15
A. What is Paul not saying according to verse 13?
Liberty is not an opportunity to satisfy my flesh but it is an opportunity to serve.
B. What principle can always guide us according to verses 14?
Loving my neighbor as myself.
C. How is that elaborated on according to verse 15?
If I am not loving my neighbor then I must beware…lest in my consumeristic ways…I become consumed!
6. Read Galatians 5:19-21
A. If instead of walking by the Spirit, we gratify the flesh, what kind of things does it lead to? List a few that stand out.
I love a few from The Message that stand out to me… “a stinking accumulation of mental and emotional garbage, frenzied and joyless grabs for happiness, and all-consuming-yet-never-satisfied wants”! Now that’s a convicting list!
B. Why does Paul make the statement he does in verse 21?
It appears Paul is reiterating something he had told the Galatian church previously about those who practice the deeds of the flesh not inheriting the kingdom.
How could this be mis-interpreted?
It can be misunderstood to mean that you can lose your salvation.
7. Read Galatians 5:22-25
A. List the fruit of the Spirit.
Love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control.
B. Why do you think the Word says fruit instead of fruits?
Not sure, but could it be that it is because there is one Spirit who bears this fruit and though it has different facets it is all part and parcel of the same fruit?
C. Tim Keller, in the sermon you will hear over the next few days, says that if you don’t have evidences of all of the fruit, you may not have any. Why, do you think?
Maybe that would be like being a little bit filled with the Spirit…or a little bit pregnant which is not possible😊 You either have evidence of fruit or not.
8. What do you think it means to “keep in step with the Spirit?” Give an illustration, if possible.
To me, keeping in step with the Spirit, means not running ahead, not lagging behind, but like the Israelites of old were to pack up and move out when the pillar of cloud lifted and were to set up camp when the cloud descended…I am to have my eyes on the Lord and move when He says move and stay when He says stay.
9. Pastor Beckham. of St Luke Church in Columbus, Ga, says we need to always cling to principle, but not to procedure. What do you think this means for making decisions in a church?
To me this means that we are to cling to the heart of a matter and not be bound by the “letter of the law” or having to have the same exact outcome in every instance but are to also consider the circumstances that may be unique to each decision. We are to align ourselves with the word and the Spirit without being bound by the Law.
little bit pregnant 🙂
2. Share two examples of good theology from “And Can It Be?”
Bled for Adam’s helpless race – speaks of the blood of Jesus poured out for mankind trapped in sin
My chains fell off and my heart was free – speaks of the moment of salvation and the power removing the chains of sin/death and the new found freedom that comes to us.
. Read Galatians 5:16-18.
A. What two natures are in conflict with each other?
The flesh and the spirit are in conflict with one another. Paul tells us to walk in the spirit and we will not fulfill the lust of the flesh.
B. What does Paul tell us to do in verse 18? What do you think this means?
Walk in the spirit and not to fulfill the lust of the flesh. Lean into God, be led by the spirit, let the word of God have dominance, refuse to allow our old way of doing this have prominence but with the spirits help do what please the father.
4. What are your thoughts on the above?
Our obedience comes out of a close relationship with the Holy Spirit. He is our helper. The law just points the way to righteousness but the empowerment to walk in the spirit comes out of relationship. It is not in our power but the power that resurrected Jesus is available to us!
5. Now, backtrack to Galatians 5:13-15
A. What is Paul not saying according to verse 13?
Paul is not saying we are freed from the law to do anything we would like to do.
B. What principle can always guide us according to verses 14
Rules are never our guide but love. The love of God that lives in us gives us directions.
C. How is that elaborated on according to verse 15?
If we continue to bite one another, we will devour one another. If we live out of the flesh, our earthly nature, our sin nature, it will destroy us.
1. What stands out to you from the above and why?
Dee, just the story of how this all came together is a book in itself, a very compelling story indeed with God’s fingerprints all over it! Thank you for sharing the photos with us….love the candlelit dinner. I also resonate with this: “We all struggle with various kinds of sin from birth, and we all need support to be set free, not enablement that keeps us in chains.” So, so true. I have always believed that we each have our own peculiar brand of sin; I have never struggled with temptation in the area of drugs or alcohol, but I have my own unique sins that are just as deadly. It seems this statement also sums up what is happening in many of the mainline denominations; instead of pointing people how to be set free, by veering away from the gospel, they are keeping people enslaved with the message that it’s okay, we’re all God’s children. I wonder if this has also affected the United Churches of Christ? That is the church my grandparents attended and I used to go with my grandma to church sometimes….the one she attended was born out of a German Reformed church. My parents were married there, and my dad still attends occasionally. I’ve gone with him a few times but not enough to form an opinion.
I fear it has, Susan.
What seems loving is actually a lie from the devil.
4. What are your thoughts on the above?
Regarding Twila’s thoughts that “we are free from all the Mosaic Law, including the Ten Commandments, for they have all been fulfilled in Christ”, it is true that we ARE free from the condemnation that comes from not fulfilling the Mosaic Law, including the Ten Commandments. However, we ought to be cautious to downplay the importance of the Mosaic Law which was our teacher to bring us to Christ. The Ten Commandments are guidelines that we still need to know and strive to fulfill because, in many senses, we are still partially blinded, even though we have the Spirit within us. There are those Christians who largely ignore the Old Testament because they believe that it is the old covenant and not relevant now; but they miss so much of the richness that points us to Christ. It was the only Scripture that Jesus had and he quoted it frequently and used it to point out the message of the gospel.
Again, I agree with Twila that we obey the Spirit and not the Law. However, we ought to know the Law and the Prophets and honor its relevance in the showing us the big picture of who God is and how he has worked. Jesus said not one jot or tittle of the law would be unfulfilled. He said he did not come to abolish the Law.
I know Twila would agree with you, Diane. Her words are pointed to believers who have been brought by the law to Christ, but now are still trying to live by the law. Maybe I can get Twila to come on and speak for herself!
Dee, I am glad to hear that Twila would agree. I know Twila is a precious believer who you value greatly and I cautiously posted some of my concerns. This is indeed a complex discussion and it is hard to explain in just a few words. We do indeed need to be concerned about believers who are still trying to live by the law. Freedom in Christ is such a precious gift! Being free TO serve is also a hard but glorious privilege that we have to keep on relearning all our lives!
Thanks, Diane. I know Twila is reading but haven’t got her on. Somehow I cannot control her! 🙂
2. Share two examples of good theology from “And Can It Be”.
Died He for me, who caused His pain? For me, who Him to death pursued? If you remove the need for the Cross and for the shedding of blood for remission of sins, then this line would make no sense. It clearly points to us, the sinner, as the cause of Jesus’ death and suffering.
And bled for Adam’s helpless race… this identifies us with the first man who brought sin and death into the world, and the word ‘helpless’ shows that we can do nothing for ourselves, like the caterpillar in the ring of fire, we need a rescue from above.
What two natures are in conflict with each other? The Spirit and the sinful nature
B. What does Paul tell us to do in verse 18?
To allow ourselves to be guided by the Spirit
What do you think this means?
I part I think it means paying attention to the dialogue that plays in my head. I think of Jesus saying that his sheep know his voice when my flesh has my attention my thoughts are different than when I am abiding in Christ and asking him to shape my perspective on my circumstances.
What is Paul not saying according to verse 13?
That our freedom from the law means we can live however we see fit?
B. What principle can always guide us according to verses 14?
Love, this is such a tall order. I know myself to be so weak in this area. I can never even come close to anything that isn’t selfish love without the help of the Spirit.
C. How is that elaborated on according to verse 15?
I think in our flesh we look at other people as ways to fill up ourselves, when self interest rules my heart I will use people or step over them to get what I think I need. This is a dangerous way to live.
This is so good (and true) Chris: “I think in our flesh we look at other people as ways to fill up ourselves.”
Chris — this is where we are headed next week!
I think in our flesh we look at other people as ways to fill up ourselves, when self interest rules my heart I will use people or step over them to get what I think I need. This is a dangerous way to live.
6. Read Galatians 5:19-21
If instead of walking by the Spirit, we gratify the flesh, what kind of things does it lead to? List a few that stand out.
I was really convicted by two in the list of this text from The Message
1) small-minded and lopsided pursuits
I can get small-minded and lopsided in my pursuit of care for my physical self when I lose sight of being a steward taking good care of my body because it is on loan to me and I want to be fit for service and begin being to be motivated more by a feeling of accomplishment or a number on the scale.
2) the vicious habit of depersonalizing everyone into a rival
I have someone in my life who operates this way with me, she seems to feel in competition with me. It has been really hard not to get sucked into that way of thinking in return. I am praying for the power to love her and do good to her in spite of feeling puzzled and sometimes hurt by her behavior towards me.
I don’t want to depersonalize her :/
The Message has such a way of cutting to the heart of the matter sometimes.
Such good points from you, Chris.
List the fruit of the Spirit.
love [unselfish concern for others]
joy
[inner] peace
patience [not the ability to wait, but how we act while waiting]
kindness
goodness
faithfulness
gentleness
self-control
6. Read Galatians 5:19-21
A. If instead of walking by the spirit, we gratify the flesh, what kind of things does it lead to? List a few that stand out.
Idolatry, Strife or quarreling, Jealousy, Outbursts of anger, Selfish ambitions…
B. Why does Paul make the statement he does in verse 21? How could this be misinterpreted?
I think the key word in his statement is “practice.” He is saying that “such things” should no longer be habitual in our lives. If one continues in these sins there’s no evidence they have received the Spirit.
The misinterpretation is, one can’t go to heaven if they commit these sins.
7. Read Galatians 5:22-25
A. List the fruit of the Spirit.
Love, Joy, Peace, Longsuffering, Kindness, Goodness, Faithfulness, Gentleness and Self-control
B. Why do you think the word says fruit instead of fruits?
I think it’s important to understand that these aren’t gifts. For example John has love and Carol has peace etc. but rather to be looked at as a cluster of fruit to be produced or manifested in the life of each and every believer.
1. Dee, I love that you said you came to “the wrong and prideful assumption “ about what you would find in that church. Like Mary said, God always has a remnant. If Satan can persuade us that we’re the only ones left, there’s the temptation to be arrogant and prideful. Instead you were obedient to God’s call and now you are sharing your joy with us. Thank you so much. I also liked that you said fruit comes not from striving but from abiding
2. From the hymn: “He emptied Himself of all but love and bled for Adam’s helpless race. ‘‘Tis mercy all, immense and free.” Philippians 2:7
3. Read Galatians 5:16-18
A. The two conflicting natures are the Spirit and the sin nature.
B. Being led by the Spirit means I’m following after Jesus who gave me His righteousness and empowers me to choose freedom over slavery. The Law has no power to save me, because it cannot make me right with God. The Law reveals my sin nature to me, but the Spirit enables me to choose not to obey that sin nature. The Msg translation says “There is a root of sinful self-interest that is at odds with a free spirit, just as the free spirit is incompatible with selfishness. “
4. I like the sentence, “That Spirit puts the moral Law into our hearts. We are guided by the Word, but the One we obey is the Spirit, not the Law.” He gives me His Spirit and His righteousness so I can live free – not free to sin, but free to serve Him by loving and serving the people He has put in my life.
5.Gal. 5:13-15
A. Paul is not saying that our freedom is to be used for our own benefit, rather to serve others. the sin nature is entirely self-serving.
B. Love your neighbor as yourself.
C. You will destroy each other if you only look out for your own selfish interests.
B. Why do you think the Word says fruit instead of fruits?
I wonder if it is because it is all really the same thing, evidence of how being in Christ has made us new?
C. Tim Keller, in the sermon you will hear over the next few days, says that if you don’t have evidences of all of the fruit, you may not have any. Why, do you think?
I have listened to the sermon before, or one in which he makes that same point, It made me think a lot, about myself and other believers and it makes sense, that if the Spirit is at work all areas of our character will show change, not just the ones that come naturally. I do agree, but I have had to be careful not to use this idea as a way of judging others sometimes.
8. What do you think it means to “keep in step with the Spirit?” Give an illustration, if possible.
The Spirit prompts me, to spend time with God in study and quiet instead of sleeping in, to call a friend instead of watching television, to turn my anxiety towards God in prayer instead of worrying, to repentance rather that spiraling downward in self reproach. When I am in step with Him I follow and enjoy the benefit.
When I am not I turn to those empty cisterns
I thought of Matthew 26: 41 from the Message
“Stay alert; be in prayer so you don’t wander into temptation without even knowing you’re in danger. There is a part of you that is eager, ready for anything in God. But there’s another part that’s as lazy as an old dog sleeping by the fire.”
Like that verse from Matthew!
Tuesday
7C. Tim Keller, in the sermon you will hear over the next few days, says it if you don’t have evidence of all the fruit, you may not have any. What do you think?
I look at a peach for example…what makes it a peach? It’s coloring, texture, taste, pit and the tree it comes from. These are several thing that make it evident that it’s a peach. Take one of those away and it no longer is a peach. I look at the fruit of the Spirit in the same way…love,joy,peace,goodness,gentleness,kindness,faithfulness,self-control and long-suffering make up the evidence of a Spirit filled person.
8. What do you think it means to “ keep in step with the Spirit?” Give an illustration, if possible.
I think it means to be God conscious. Always keeping the doors of communication open with Him. I go back to what Francis Schaffer said, “Living by faith in open communion with God…moment by moment faith.”
I’m using your phrase in my life Dee, “How is it between us Lord?” It has helped me immensely to keep that phrase in the forefront of my mind throughout the day. We have been living with my daughter and her husband the last few months while our house is being completed (moved out of the RV since my 6’4” husband couldn’t fit in the shower as the bathroom in our house was no longer available.) I don’t see evidence that my son-in-Law is a Christian and so living with him has been a test and eye opener to my relationship with the Lord. I hate to say it but I tend to let my true colors come out when it’s just my husband and I. I want my son-in-Law to see Christ as he doesn’t have a great opinion of Christians in general. It really takes discipline but God has given me strength to keep a constant line open between Him and me. O, be careful little tongue what you say, O, be careful little mind what you think and thinking of others as more important than myself…to name a few that I talk to God about. I hope this makes sense.
9. Pastor Beckham of St Luke Church in Columbus, Georgia, says we need to always cling to principal but not to procedure. What do you think this means for making decisions in the church?
If it’s just procedure, changing the way you do communion or the time you start Sunday school or church etc., these are decisions that can be open for discussion. But, changing the Word of God to making it say what you want and to go along with the world is not open for discussion…there’s no decision to be made.
6.a. Acts of the sinful nature…sexual misdeeds, idolatry, hatred, jealousy, factions
b. This verse could be misinterpreted as Paul saying that only those with clean lives can be saved. What he is really saying is that you can’t hang on to all the old attitudes and actions and still cling to Jesus.
7.b. It says fruit and not fruits because it all comes from the same root. You don’t say ‘the fruits of an apple tree’. You say the fruit, even though there are many of them. There is only one kind of thing that comes from a specific tree. The root or tree of the Holy Spirit is, not are, the character of God.
c. The fruit does not build on one another. They are all foundational and interwoven. Will be interesting to hear Keller’s take on it.
Well, I wrote my answers this morning and ended up accidentally deleting my work 😩.
Second attempt….
6. Read Galatians 5:19-21
A. If instead of walking by the Spirit, we gratify the flesh, what kind of things does it lead to? List a few that stand out.
What exactly is witch craft or sorcery? Would that be a different god?
I thought discord and selfish ambition struck a chord with me. I’m afraid I have had bouts with these two, in the past at least. I wonder how my kids would have turned out had I been less ambitious with my career.
B. Why does Paul make the statement he does in verse 21? How could this be mis-interpreted?
He warns against living a sinful life because those who do will not inherit the kingdom of God.
I think it can be mis-interpreted to mean we have to do good things to go to heaven versus being saved by grace.
7. Read Galatians 5:22-25
A. List the fruit of the Spirit.
“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law.”
Galatians 5:22-23 NIV
https://www.bible.com/111/gal.5.22-23.niv
B. Why do you think the Word says fruit instead of fruits?
Because there is One true fruit, Jesus Christ. The best fruit, no other.
C. Tim Keller, in the sermon you will hear over the next few days, says that if you don’t have evidences of all of the fruit, you may not have any. Why, do you think?
Well, I think one leads to another; they are bound to each other. You can’t have one without the others.
8. Keeping in step with the Spirit. The first thing that comes to mind is not lagging behind or taking off on my own, but choosing to stay right with the Spirit. That requires knowing the Spirit’s nature by being continually in the Word, listening to Him and responding quickly in obedience and faith.
9. To cling to principle but not to procedure means that the way we do something may need to change to reach a new generation or culture. But the why of what we do should never change. So in a church, we don’t flaunt “we’ve always done it this way,” but do concentrate on how best we can share the truth of Christ.
Tuesday: The Fruit of the Sinful Nature and the Fruit of the Spirit
6. Read Galatians 5:19-21
A. If instead of walking by the Spirit, we gratify the flesh, what kind of things does it lead to?
List a few that stand out. jealousy, drunkenness, fits of anger, strife…
B. Why does Paul make the statement he does in verse 21? How could this be mis-interpreted?
Those that practice these things will not inherit the kingdom of God. The kingdom of God and heaven are often thought of as one but the kingdom of God is where the perfect will of God is done. Sometimes when Jesus healed people he would say the kingdom of God has come upon you.
7. Read Galatians 5:22-25
A. List the fruit of the Spirit.
Love, Joy, Peace, Patience, kindness, Gentleness, Goodness, faithfulness, and self control.
B. Why do you think the Word says fruit instead of fruits?
I am not sure but maybe because we have all of them. By this I mean it is not like the different gifts that are dispersed throughout the body of Christ but as a believer we have every one of these attributes listed because the Holy Spirit lives within us.
C. Tim Keller, in the sermon you will hear over the next few days, says that if you don’t have evidences of all of the fruit, you may not have any. Why, do you think?
Maybe because we are given all at salvation through the indwelling Holy Spirit.
8. What do you think it means to “keep in step with the Spirit?” Give an illustration, if possible.
I always have this picture of riding a tandem bike with the Holy Spirit in the front seat (captain) and I am at the rear rider (stoker). Riding a tandem bike requires team work. The captain does all the steering and braking, which means earning and keeping the trust of the of the rear rider. The stoker job is to pedal in sync with the captain.
9. Pastor Beckham. of St Luke Church in Columbus, Ga, says we need to always cling to principle, but not to procedure. What do you think this means for making decisions in a church?
Pastor Beckham may be saying, “keep the main thing the main thing but don’t be lead by rules”. I would say that Jesus, the gospel message and people should be the driving force not programs and policies.
Tandem bike illustration has be thinking – wondering how that aligns with caterpillars in a ring of fire.
Thoughts from Tami or anyone?
Dee,
There are times I am a caterpillar in a ring of fire and I am calling out to God to help me (desperately) because I know in particular situation what my choice needs to be and I am incapable of making it. However, in day to day life, I look and listen for the still nudges of the Holy Spirit to guide me according to scriptures,
“But the Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, HE WILL TEACH YOU ALL THINGS, and bring to your remembrance all things that I have said to you.” (John 14:26)
“However, when He, the Spirit of truth, has come, HE WILL GUIDE YOU INTO ALL TRUTH …” (JOHN 16:13) I probably needed more of an explanation for my illustration. There are times I’d rather withhold from people and just be selfish with an all about me attitude but I know that doesn’t please God. Daily I attempt to lean into the Holy Spirit to allow him to guide my actions and bring forth the fruit that lives inside me. So the tandem bike is my visual. The Holy Spirit is the lead and I cooperate with him (team work). Sometimes dealing with people, I have to lean on him to steer (give me direction) and put on the brakes (this is when I am choosing patience, peace, kindness, gentleness and self control rather than allow my fleshly nature choose my behavior). I feel I am in sync with the Holy Spirit when I chose what pleases him and step into love. I have also learned to trust the Holy Spirit’s lead even if I don’t see the immediate benefit. Below is my illustration. Does that make better sense, Dee?
I always have this picture of riding a tandem bike with the Holy Spirit in the front seat (captain) and I am at the rear rider (stoker). Riding a tandem bike requires team work. The captain does all the steering and braking, which means earning and keeping the trust of the of the rear rider. The stoker job is to pedal in sync with the captain.
Tuesday
6A. Sexual sins, idolatry, sorcery, fits of anger, it seems like most of the worldwide public is on the edge, and deadly fits of anger continue to rise.
B. He gives a stern warning, it can be misinterpreted as a loss of salvation.
7A. Love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control.
B. I never noticed that before. It’s from the same tree, the same source.
C. I don’t know.
8. Always be listening for His guidance. Many years ago, I was in the process of purchasing a condo, about 1,500 miles from where I was living. The inspection was finished and I was looking forward to living there. God told me to back out of the deal. I was shocked, I felt, backing out was breaking my word and showed a lack of integrity. Again God said, back out, so I did. The day the moving van was being loaded. (I had rented an apartment instead.) The realtor called and told me I was the luckiest person she had ever met. The condo had burned to the ground that morning.
9. Procedures can easily be associated with legalism, Biblical principals are solid ground.
3. Read Galatians 5:16-18.
A. What two natures are in conflict with each other? – The desires of the flesh are against the desires of the Spirit
B. What does Paul tell us to do in verse 18? What do you think this means? – To be led by the Spirit. I think what he is trying to say is for us to be focused on the Spirit in all things, so we are not over taken by our flesh and the things of this world. To mediate on things that are good. It brings to mind Colossians 3.2 ‘Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth.