Galatians - Freedom Through Christ
Spirit-Filled Life
January 21, 2024 • James Brignac • Galatians 5:16–26
Do you ever feel like a hypocrite as a Christian? Especially when we realize that as a Christian, we are just as sinful or perhaps more sinful than others in the world? It’s a question that most Christians wrestle with at some time. Today we’re going to see how Paul discusses this reality. The fact is that Christians will always have an internal war between the flesh and the Spirit. The real question is how can we make sure we get in line with the Spirit and what is the fruit of the Spirit in our lives?
A Tale Of Two Mothers
January 7, 2024 • James Brignac • Galatians 4:21–31
Has anyone ever asked you, “Who is your mother?” In our passage today Paul will ask whether we belong to the line of Hagar or Sarah. The answer will determine if we are tied to the Law or gospel and that answer means everything!
Don't Go Back!
November 19, 2023 • James Brignac • Galatians 4:8–20
One of the most interesting trends today is watching the advancements in technology. It wasn’t that long ago that the first iPhone came out. It was so new and revolutionary. Now, smartphones are commonplace, and they have advanced so far that we’d never want to go back to that original iPhone. The wonderous marvel of 2007 would be worthless now. The same is true in the gospel. Today, Paul is going to remind his readers to be careful about going backwards in the gospel. It’s a trap we can all find ourselves in if we’re not careful.
Gospel Identity
November 12, 2023 • James Brignac • Galatians 3:25–29, Galatians 4:1–7
Pew Research conducted a poll in 2017 asking Americans the following, “what makes their lives feel meaningful, fulfilling or satisfying?” 69% answered with family. 34% said career, and 23% said finances. Now I don’t think it’s a stretch to say the apostle Paul would disagree with much of what is happening in the world today, but would it surprise you that he actually agrees with this poll? Today, Paul will make the case that our family is what gives us meaning, but it may not be the family you’re thinking about right away.
Why Then The Law
November 5, 2023 • James Brignac • Galatians 3:15–26
If you’ve been following along with our study of the book of Galatians, you will have noticed a common theme the past couple of weeks. Paul has been painting a clear picture of the true gospel. He has challenged the thinking of anyone who is trying to add to this gospel. Now he answers a question which may have crossed your mind. Why then do we have the law? Today we’ll look at the three uses of the Law and how these help us understand the Law.
Law or Cross
October 29, 2023 • James Brignac • Galatians 3:10–14
If you are a fan of Star Trek, you are probably familiar with the Kobayashi Maru test. It’s a training simulation for new cadets. The catch? The test is unbeatable; there is no way for the trainee captain to beat the scenario and save their ship. You are destined to fail. Today Paul tells us something similar about the Law. The reality is all how try to save themselves by the Law are destined to fail. The good news is there is an answer for how to win, and it’s not by cheating.
Hold Firm
October 22, 2023 • James Brignac • Galatians 3:1–9
It is interesting to reminisce on past experiences. Through photos, social media, and other channels, it can be fun to remember a past trip or event. In those moments of recollections, we are reminded of the joy and sometimes chaos of life. Today we’re going to see how Paul will essentially do the same with the Galatians. He’s going to remind them of their past knowledge, experiences, and the Old Testament truths of the gospel. The goal is to point the Galatians back to the true gospel.
The Language of the Gospel
October 15, 2023 • James Brignac • Galatians 2:15–21
Terminology matters. This is true no matter what we’re discussing. One area where terms are extremely important is when we discuss the gospel. Sometimes, it seems we get too caught up in doctrine, but sometimes, as we see today, doctrine matters. For example, we can say “just believe in Jesus”. But what does that really mean? This is the significance of defining our terms. We need to know what we believe. Today we’ll look at some of the key terms Paul has used and will continue using in Galatians.
Gospel Conflict
October 8, 2023 • James Brignac • Galatians 2:11–16
There are few universal truths in the world, especially today. It seems any opinion you may have is subject to intense scrutiny. I believe that most people tend to dislike conflict. Most will do everything in their power to avoid it. In part, this is because conflict is usually difficult, emotional, and can lead to strained relationships. Today we’re going to see how there are times when conflict is unavoidable. In this case, it is the gospel at stake and Paul will not stand idly by and watch.
Mission Accepted
October 1, 2023 • James Brignac • Galatians 2:1–10
In today’s passage, we see how Paul’s authority is made manifest. It is an essential aspect of the letter as it gives more credibility to Paul’s writing. He shares the ministry which God has called him to and how the apostles add their own endorsement. Paul’s acceptance by the apostles is also a model for how the church should function today. We should be excited to share in the gospel mission with others who share our same convictions on the message!
What Is The Gospel?
September 17, 2023 • James Brignac • Galatians 1:11–24
One of the best aspects of Galatians is the focus on the gospel. Today it’s a term we throw around, but few really know what it means. Today we’re going to explore three main questions about the gospel. We’re going to explore the origin of the gospel, how we receive it, and how it changes us. The goal is for us to have a greater understanding of the gospel and what it meant for Paul and what it means for us today.
The True Gospel
September 10, 2023 • James Brignac • Galatians 1:1–10
What is the gospel? This might be the most important question for us to answer. Paul will answer the question in our passage today. One of the best aspects of the gospel is its simplicity. This is what Paul will tell us. Yet we’ll also see we are all prone to wander and miss the true gospel. May that not be us!