Scripture and Questions for Study and Reflection: Read Galatians 2.

1. What was the reason Paul confronted Peter in Antioch? What fear did Peter have and how was it leading people astray? (see verses 11-13)

2. In this week’s video, Idleman refers to the “Gospel of Freedom.” What does he mean by that? In what ways do we find freedom in the Gospel?

3. Idleman says the “Gospel of Freedom” demands Unity, Humility and Sanctification. Do you agree with him? Why/why not?

4. Pastor Mick used local examples of “Unity without Uniformity” in living out the Gospel. What do you think about the concept of unity without uniformity? What do you think about the way we do it in Mercer County? Is this way true to the Gospel?

5. St. Augustine is often credited with the saying, “In essentials unity; in non-essentials liberty; in all things charity.” What do you think about that saying? In what ways were the early creeds attempts to determine the “essentials”? Are there other essentials that the creeds don’t cover? If so, what are they?

6. In what way did Paul demonstrate humility in chapter 2? How did Pastor Mick describe humility regarding collaborative ministries here in Mercer County? Why is humility important?

7. What does sanctification mean? Why is this a requirement of the Gospel?

8. Paul says, “For when I tried to keep the law, it condemned me. So I died to the law—I stopped trying to meet all its requirements—so that I might live for God.” (verse 19, NLT) What does it mean to die to the law and live for God? How does this lead to sanctification? Where does the power of sanctification come from?

9. What does the phrase, “I can’t...He can...I think I’ll let Him” mean to you?

Prayer for the Week:
Gracious and loving God, thank you for the freedom we find in the Gospel. Humble us and unite us around your Gospel, that we might be sanctified, truly transformed, through the power of your Holy Spirit. We surrender our lives to you anew this day so that we might live our lives for you. Help us to be your good and faithful servants, your completely committed followers, true disciples of Jesus going out to make new disciples of Jesus for the transformation of the world. We pray all of this in the mighty name of Jesus, who lives and reigns with You and the Holy Spirit, One God, now and forever. Amen.