Liberated: From Law to Love – Part 5

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Liberated: From Law to Love – Part 5

September 17, 2023

In our new series, “Liberated,” we’re diving deep into the powerful message of freedom and grace found in Galatians.

In this message on chapter 4, I explore the transformative power of living under the New Covenant versus living under the Law. Paul uses the analogy of a child and a slave to help us grasp the profound difference between these two ways of life. Understanding this contrast will revolutionize your perspective on the Christian life and deepen your appreciation for God’s love and acceptance of you.

Additionally, we delve into Paul’s concern about the Galatians turning back to observing Jewish customs and the dangers of mixing law and grace. This cautionary message is relevant for us today as we navigate the legalism that’s so prevalent today and our newfound freedom in Christ.

I encourage you to check out this impactful message on Galatians 4. It’s an opportunity to deepen your understanding of God’s liberating grace and its transformative power in your life.

Discussion Questions for Galatians 4:1-20:

1. In Galatians 4:1-7, Paul uses the analogy of a child and a slave to describe our relationship with the law before and after coming to faith in Christ. How does this analogy help us understand the difference between living under the law and living in the freedom of the new covenant?

2. In Galatians 4:8-11, Paul expresses his concern that the Galatians are turning back to observing Jewish days, seasons, and years. Why do you think Paul is so adamant about this issue? What dangers or pitfalls might come from mixing law and grace?

3. In Galatians 4:12-20, Paul reminds the Galatians of their past unity with him and the Gospel message. How does this reminder of their relationship with Paul impact their decision to stray from the Gospel? What can we learn from this about the importance of staying focused on the truth of the Gospel and staying connected to a community of believers?

4. Throughout this passage, Paul emphasizes the contrast between the law and grace, bondage and freedom. How does this contrast impact your understanding of the Christian life? How does it shape your view of God’s love and acceptance of us?

5. In Galatians 4:19, Paul expresses his desire for Christ to be formed in the Galatians. Christ already lives in every believer, forever, so what does it mean for Christ to be “formed” in them? How does this relate to our union with Christ and the transformation that happens in our lives by the Holy Spirit?

Liberated: From Law to Love – Part 8

October 8, 2023

My final message in our “Liberated” series unpacks more powerful insights in Galatians. Thus far, we’ve explored themes of freedom, grace, and the new creation. In chapter 6, Paul introduces “the law of Christ” – an intriguing phrase that might make you wonder if Paul is contradicting himself regarding law and grace. (Of course, he’s not, and you’ll find out why!) We’ll also explore the idea of sowing and reaping, where you’ll gain a fresh perspective on what it means to “invest” in God’s Spirit and get a return – a life of peace. I’m eager for you to hear these truths and embrace God’s grace even further. So, enjoy! Discussion Questions for Galatians 6: 1. What is “the law of Christ”? 2. In your own words, explain the sowing and reaping concept Paul introduces here. 3. React to this statement: “Those who are circumcised do not even keep the Law themselves.” 4. What does it mean to be “crucified to the world”? 5. React to this statement: The only “rule” to walk by is “the new creation.” 6. What is your biggest takeaway from our study in Galatians?

Liberated: From Law to Love – Part 1

August 20, 2023

In this exciting new series called “Liberated: From Law to Love,” we dive into the powerful and controversial book of Galatians. It’s all about understanding how we’ve been set free from the Law and embraced by God’s love. We’ll explore the “true north” of the Gospel and how the Holy Spirit guides us in our daily lives. In this first message, Paul shares his “certificate of authenticity” with us, showing he received the Gospel directly from God. Here, we’ll also learn about the incredible transformation in Paul’s own life, from persecuting Christians to boldly proclaiming the truth. Join me as we uncover the liberating power of God’s love and how it can transform your life. You won’t want to miss it! Discussion Questions – Galatians 1: 1. Why do you think Paul defends his apostleship right from the start of Galatians? 2. How are we now “rescued from this present evil age” (verse 4)? 3. Considering verses 6-7, why is Paul writing the letter to the Galatians? 4. How is the church today like the church in Galatia? How can we ensure we’re believing and sharing the true gospel? 5. How does Paul’s personal testimony in verses 13-24 serve as evidence for the truth of the message he preached? 6. Paul went from persecuting the church to preaching the gospel. How does this dramatic transformation speak to the power of God's grace? 7. How does Galatians 1 set the stage for understanding the difference between Law and Grace?

Liberated: From Law to Love – Part 2

August 27, 2023

In Galatians 2, we see the apostle Paul addressing the issue of false brethren who were spying on Christians. These false brethren were trying to bring the believers back under the law and away from the freedom found in Christ. Paul recognized the danger of mixing law and grace and stood up for the truth of the Gospel. This is significant because it highlights the importance of staying true to the message of grace and not allowing legalistic influences to hinder us. In today’s world, Christianity can often be influenced by a “popularity contest.” We may feel pressured to seek the approval of others. However, Paul reminds us that our allegiance is to Christ and His message of grace. We’re called to stand firm in the truth, even if it goes against the grain. And as we embrace the liberating message of God’s grace, we can find true freedom and live out our faith without settling for lifeless rule-keeping. Check out this message in our series called “Liberated” to deepen your understanding of God’s grace. Enjoy! Discussion Questions for "Liberated" (Galatians 2): 1. Read verse 4. What did the false brethren see when they spied on Christians? How is this significant? 2. Read verse 5. What was Paul’s reaction to those spies? 3. Read verse 6. In what ways is Christianity influenced by a “popularity contest” today? 4. Read verses 7-10. How does this passage show it’s the same message for Jews and Gentiles? 5. Read verses 11-13. Why did Paul oppose Peter to his face? What can we learn from this? 6. How does verse 14 refute those who claim the apostles still kept the Law? 7. Read verse 16. How does this verse summarize the gospel of grace? 8. Challenge: Can you explain verses 17-18 in your own words? 9. What does it mean to have "died to the Law"? 10. Who are the two I’s in Galatians 2:20?