Galatians 6:6 NASB
And let the one who is taught the word share all good things with him who teaches.
What is the one who is taught the word instructed to do?
In the previous verses, what has Paul been telling the believers?
How is this verse related to the previous verses?
Why do you think Paul has brought up this one specific responsibility?
Read Galatians 1:6-8; 4:11-16; 5:10-12.
Who taught the word to the Galatians?
What made it necessary for Paul to write this letter to the Galatians?
What might they be doing that would make it necessary for Paul to write Galatians 6:6?
Let's read a cross-reference for this verse: 1 Corinthians 9:11-14.
Here's what The Bible Knowledge Commentary by John F. Walvoord and Roy B. Zuck says about this verse:
This concept of voluntary giving to provide for the Lord's servants was revolutionary
since Jews were taxed for the support of their priests and Gentiles paid fees, made vows,
etc., to sustain their religions.
Who shared the word of God with you?
What good things might you share with them?
Monday, August 31, 2009
Friday, August 28, 2009
Examine Our Work and Bear Our Load
Galatians 6:4-5 NASB
4 But let each one examine his own work, and then he will have reason for boasting in regard to himself alone, and not in regard to another.
5 For each one shall bear his own load.
What contrast word begins the fourth verse?
So, what do you think is in contrast to each one examining his or her own work?
What is the person described in verse 3 doing?
What attitudes might this person have that Paul discussed in Galatians 5:26?
Why would it be necessary for such a person to lay aside these attitudes if he or she is going to be a burden bearer?
What remedy does Paul offer in verse four for getting rid of those conceited feelings?
What shouldn't we be doing when we test our own work?
Paul says that the one who examines his own work will have reason for boasting in regard to himself alone.
What did Paul mean by boasting?
Didn't he just say in 5:26 that we should not become boastful?
Let's look up "boasting" and "boastful" in Strong's to see what we learn.
Boasting from Gal. 6:4 KJV--rejoicing G2745 kauchema glorying, rejoicing
Boastful from Gal. 5:26 KJV--desirous of vain glory G2755 kenodoxos vainly glorifying
So, when Paul says that we should examine our own work, we see what God has done in our lives, and we can glorify God. If we're comparing our work to the work of others, what are we seeking to do?
What does Paul say that each one shall have to bear?
Is this the same "bear" that Paul used in Galatians 6:2? If you look up "bear" in Strong's, you find that in both instances the same Greek word was used--bastazo--meaning "to lift."
Didn't Paul just say in Gal. 6:2 that we're supposed to bear one another's burdens? Why is he saying now that we should bear our own load? In the KJV, "load" is translated "burden." Let's look at these two words to see if they came from the same Greek word.
Gal. 6:5 load KJV--burden G5413 phortion an invoice (as part of freight), (fig.) task, service
Gal. 6:2 burdens G922 baros weight
The latter refers to heavy, crushing weight, that which is too much for a person.
The first refers to the responsibilities that each Christian is given by God.
Read Galatians 5:16.
What specific advice has Paul given us today for being able to do that?
If we examine our own work and bear our own load, what part of Galatians 6:1 are we doing and what part of 6:1 will we be enabled to do?
4 But let each one examine his own work, and then he will have reason for boasting in regard to himself alone, and not in regard to another.
5 For each one shall bear his own load.
What contrast word begins the fourth verse?
So, what do you think is in contrast to each one examining his or her own work?
What is the person described in verse 3 doing?
What attitudes might this person have that Paul discussed in Galatians 5:26?
Why would it be necessary for such a person to lay aside these attitudes if he or she is going to be a burden bearer?
What remedy does Paul offer in verse four for getting rid of those conceited feelings?
What shouldn't we be doing when we test our own work?
Paul says that the one who examines his own work will have reason for boasting in regard to himself alone.
What did Paul mean by boasting?
Didn't he just say in 5:26 that we should not become boastful?
Let's look up "boasting" and "boastful" in Strong's to see what we learn.
Boasting from Gal. 6:4 KJV--rejoicing G2745 kauchema glorying, rejoicing
Boastful from Gal. 5:26 KJV--desirous of vain glory G2755 kenodoxos vainly glorifying
So, when Paul says that we should examine our own work, we see what God has done in our lives, and we can glorify God. If we're comparing our work to the work of others, what are we seeking to do?
What does Paul say that each one shall have to bear?
Is this the same "bear" that Paul used in Galatians 6:2? If you look up "bear" in Strong's, you find that in both instances the same Greek word was used--bastazo--meaning "to lift."
Didn't Paul just say in Gal. 6:2 that we're supposed to bear one another's burdens? Why is he saying now that we should bear our own load? In the KJV, "load" is translated "burden." Let's look at these two words to see if they came from the same Greek word.
Gal. 6:5 load KJV--burden G5413 phortion an invoice (as part of freight), (fig.) task, service
Gal. 6:2 burdens G922 baros weight
The latter refers to heavy, crushing weight, that which is too much for a person.
The first refers to the responsibilities that each Christian is given by God.
Read Galatians 5:16.
What specific advice has Paul given us today for being able to do that?
If we examine our own work and bear our own load, what part of Galatians 6:1 are we doing and what part of 6:1 will we be enabled to do?
Thursday, August 27, 2009
Are You Something or Nothing?
Galatians 6:2-3 NASB
2 Bear one another's burdens, and thus fulfill the law of Christ.
3 For if anyone thinks he is something when he is nothing, he deceives himself.
According to verse 3, how might a believer deceive himself?
If he is deceiving himself, what might he not be capable of doing?
Let's check the cross-references for this verse.
The first one is Acts 5:36.
In this example, who claimed to be somebody?
What happened to him?
According to Galatians 6:3 was this person deceiving himself?
The second one is 1 Corinthians 3:18.
What should the man who thinks he is wise in this age do?
Why should he do that?
How was the man who thought he was wise in this age deceiving himself?
The third one is 2 Corinthians 12:11.
What does Paul say he has become?
What does he think his position was in respect to the most eminent apostles?
What does he say that he is?
Reread Galatians 5:13-6:3.
Why does Paul tell them that if they think they are something when they are nothing, they are deceiving themselves?
How does this verse relate to the ones that came before?
If we are to be burden bearers, what do we need to lay aside?
If we are to be burden bearers, how should we be walking?
2 Bear one another's burdens, and thus fulfill the law of Christ.
3 For if anyone thinks he is something when he is nothing, he deceives himself.
According to verse 3, how might a believer deceive himself?
If he is deceiving himself, what might he not be capable of doing?
Let's check the cross-references for this verse.
The first one is Acts 5:36.
In this example, who claimed to be somebody?
What happened to him?
According to Galatians 6:3 was this person deceiving himself?
The second one is 1 Corinthians 3:18.
What should the man who thinks he is wise in this age do?
Why should he do that?
How was the man who thought he was wise in this age deceiving himself?
The third one is 2 Corinthians 12:11.
What does Paul say he has become?
What does he think his position was in respect to the most eminent apostles?
What does he say that he is?
Reread Galatians 5:13-6:3.
Why does Paul tell them that if they think they are something when they are nothing, they are deceiving themselves?
How does this verse relate to the ones that came before?
If we are to be burden bearers, what do we need to lay aside?
If we are to be burden bearers, how should we be walking?
Wednesday, August 26, 2009
The Law of Christ
Galatians 6:2 NASB
Bear one another's burdens, and thus fulfill the law of Christ.
Who is supposed to be doing this? (See Galatians 6:1.)
What are they supposed to be doing?
What will be the result of doing this?
What does Paul mean by "fulfill"? Let's look up "fulfill" in Strong's. It's number is G378. The Greek word is "anapleroo," and it means: to complete; by implication to occupy, supply; figurative to accomplish (by coincidence or obedience).
So, used in this context, which of these meanings would you choose as the best one?
If we read Galatians 6:2 in Wuest's expanded word-for-word translation of this verse, it reads:
One another's burdens be constantly bearing, and thus you will fully satisfy the requirements of the law of the Christ.
So, what is the law of Christ?
To investigate that question, let's look at the cross-references supplied for that part of the verse.
The first is Romans 8:2.
What two kinds of laws does this verse mention?
From what this verse says, which of these laws had us in bondage?
According to what we've learned so far in Galatians, which law would that be?
Which law set us free from the first law we were under?
What words are used to name this law?
So, what do we learn about the law of Christ from this verse?
How does this relate to what Paul has taught the Galatians so far in this letter?
Two are in James--1:25 and 2:12.
What kind of law is mentioned in 1:25?
What do we learn about this law?
What happens to those who abide by that law?
What law is mentioned in 2:12?
What do we learn about this law?
How are believers going to be affected by that law?
So, in these two verses, what do we learn about the law of Christ?
Let's write a list of those things we've learned about the law of Christ from all these verses.
Bear one another's burdens, and thus fulfill the law of Christ.
Who is supposed to be doing this? (See Galatians 6:1.)
What are they supposed to be doing?
What will be the result of doing this?
What does Paul mean by "fulfill"? Let's look up "fulfill" in Strong's. It's number is G378. The Greek word is "anapleroo," and it means: to complete; by implication to occupy, supply; figurative to accomplish (by coincidence or obedience).
So, used in this context, which of these meanings would you choose as the best one?
If we read Galatians 6:2 in Wuest's expanded word-for-word translation of this verse, it reads:
One another's burdens be constantly bearing, and thus you will fully satisfy the requirements of the law of the Christ.
So, what is the law of Christ?
To investigate that question, let's look at the cross-references supplied for that part of the verse.
The first is Romans 8:2.
What two kinds of laws does this verse mention?
From what this verse says, which of these laws had us in bondage?
According to what we've learned so far in Galatians, which law would that be?
Which law set us free from the first law we were under?
What words are used to name this law?
So, what do we learn about the law of Christ from this verse?
How does this relate to what Paul has taught the Galatians so far in this letter?
Two are in James--1:25 and 2:12.
What kind of law is mentioned in 1:25?
What do we learn about this law?
What happens to those who abide by that law?
What law is mentioned in 2:12?
What do we learn about this law?
How are believers going to be affected by that law?
So, in these two verses, what do we learn about the law of Christ?
Let's write a list of those things we've learned about the law of Christ from all these verses.
- It's the law of the Spirit of life.
- It's found in Christ Jesus.
- It sets us free from the law of sin and of death.
- It's the perfect law.
- It's the law of liberty.
- Those who abide by it shall be blessed in what they do.
- We will be judged by it.
- By bearing one another's burdens, we can fulfill it.
How was Paul fulfilling this law of Christ by writing this letter to the Galatians?
Read Galatians 5:13-14 and think about those words as you go through your day.
Tuesday, August 25, 2009
Bearing Burdens
Galatians 6:2 NASB
Bear one another's burdens, and thus fulfill the law of Christ.
This is a short verse with a lot to say, so today let's concentrate on the first part of this verse:
Bear one another's burdens . . .
To whom is Paul addressing this command?
What are they to be doing for each other?
How does this first part of the verse relate to what Paul said in the previous verse?
What does "bear" mean?
I looked up "bear" in Strong's, and it's number is G941. The Greek word is "bastazo," and it mean (literally or figuratively) to lift.
What are "burdens"?
It's Strong's number is G922. The Greek word is "baros," and it means weight.
What is weighing down this brother in Christ whom we who are spiritual are called to restore?
What are those who are spiritual supposed to do with our brother or sister's burdens?
And how are we to lift them? (See Galatians 6:1.)
By lifting them, what are we doing for our sister or brother in Christ?
Bear one another's burdens, and thus fulfill the law of Christ.
This is a short verse with a lot to say, so today let's concentrate on the first part of this verse:
Bear one another's burdens . . .
To whom is Paul addressing this command?
What are they to be doing for each other?
How does this first part of the verse relate to what Paul said in the previous verse?
What does "bear" mean?
I looked up "bear" in Strong's, and it's number is G941. The Greek word is "bastazo," and it mean (literally or figuratively) to lift.
What are "burdens"?
It's Strong's number is G922. The Greek word is "baros," and it means weight.
What is weighing down this brother in Christ whom we who are spiritual are called to restore?
What are those who are spiritual supposed to do with our brother or sister's burdens?
And how are we to lift them? (See Galatians 6:1.)
By lifting them, what are we doing for our sister or brother in Christ?
Monday, August 24, 2009
Restoration
Galatians 6:1 NASB
Brethren, even if a man is caught in any trespass, you who are spiritual, restore such a one in a spirit of gentleness; each one looking to yourself, lest you too be tempted.
To whom is Paul addressing this remark?
What particular quality does Paul say that they have?
What is that type of person supposed to do to a man who is caught in any trespass?
In what kind of spirit is this restoration to be done?
And what else does Paul tell this spiritual brother to do?
Why would that be necessary?
What does Paul mean by "caught"? If we look up "caught" in Strong's, we don't find this word used in Gal 6:1. That's because the wording of this verse must be different in the King James Version, the version on which Strong's is based. If you look Gal 6:1 up in the KJV, you find that the word "overtaken" is used instead of "caught." If you look up "overtaken," you find #G4301. The corresponding Greek word is "prolambano," and it means: to take in advance, i.e. (literally) eat before others have an opportunity: (figuatively) to anticipate, surprise. Now let's see what Vine's says about this word. For this verse, Vine's says: . . . the meaning is not that of detecting a person in the act, but of his being caught by the trespass, through his being off his guard . . . The modern Greek version is "even if a man, through lack of circumspection, should fall into any sin."
How might being spiritual aid a person in not falling into any sin through lack of circumspection? What did Paul tell believers to do in Galatians 5:16?
What does Paul mean by "restore"? If we look up "restore" in Strong's, we find #G2675 next to Gal 6:1. If you look up that number, you find the Greek word "katartizo," and it means "to complete thoroughtly, i.e. repair (literally or figuratively) or adjust."
If you look up "restore" in Vine's, you find this written next to the Greek word "katartizo":
"to mend, to furnish completely," is translated "restore" in Gal. 6:1, metaphorically, of the "restoration," by those who are spiritual, of one overtaken in a trespass, such a one being as a dislocated member of the spiritual body. The tense is the continuous present, suggesting the necessity for patience and perseverance in the process."
So what are those who are spiritual biblically called to do? What should they remember before doing it?
Brethren, even if a man is caught in any trespass, you who are spiritual, restore such a one in a spirit of gentleness; each one looking to yourself, lest you too be tempted.
To whom is Paul addressing this remark?
What particular quality does Paul say that they have?
What is that type of person supposed to do to a man who is caught in any trespass?
In what kind of spirit is this restoration to be done?
And what else does Paul tell this spiritual brother to do?
Why would that be necessary?
What does Paul mean by "caught"? If we look up "caught" in Strong's, we don't find this word used in Gal 6:1. That's because the wording of this verse must be different in the King James Version, the version on which Strong's is based. If you look Gal 6:1 up in the KJV, you find that the word "overtaken" is used instead of "caught." If you look up "overtaken," you find #G4301. The corresponding Greek word is "prolambano," and it means: to take in advance, i.e. (literally) eat before others have an opportunity: (figuatively) to anticipate, surprise. Now let's see what Vine's says about this word. For this verse, Vine's says: . . . the meaning is not that of detecting a person in the act, but of his being caught by the trespass, through his being off his guard . . . The modern Greek version is "even if a man, through lack of circumspection, should fall into any sin."
How might being spiritual aid a person in not falling into any sin through lack of circumspection? What did Paul tell believers to do in Galatians 5:16?
What does Paul mean by "restore"? If we look up "restore" in Strong's, we find #G2675 next to Gal 6:1. If you look up that number, you find the Greek word "katartizo," and it means "to complete thoroughtly, i.e. repair (literally or figuratively) or adjust."
If you look up "restore" in Vine's, you find this written next to the Greek word "katartizo":
"to mend, to furnish completely," is translated "restore" in Gal. 6:1, metaphorically, of the "restoration," by those who are spiritual, of one overtaken in a trespass, such a one being as a dislocated member of the spiritual body. The tense is the continuous present, suggesting the necessity for patience and perseverance in the process."
So what are those who are spiritual biblically called to do? What should they remember before doing it?
Tuesday, August 18, 2009
Let Us Not
Galatians 5:26 NASB
Let us not become boastful, challenging one another, envying one another.
Who is us?
What aren't we to become?
From looking at the previous verses, what should make it possible for someone not to become boastful, challenging others, and/or envying others?
Galatians 5:26 NLT
Let us not become conceited, or irritate one another, or be jealous of one another.
Where else in this chapter does Paul mention their bad behavior?
See 5:7 and 15.
How had they been living?
What has stopped them from running well?
What does Paul seem to be saying they're doing or might be doing?
What does he warn them might happen if they do that?
What had Paul told them to do in the verse right before verse 15?
What did Paul told them to do in the verse right after verse 15?
A cross reference for Galatians 5:26 is Philippians 2:3-4. Read it.
With what kind of attitude does Paul tell them they are to regard each other?
For whose interests should they be looking out for?
A cross reference for Philippians 2:3-4 is Romans 12:10. Read it.
How does Paul tell them they should be relating to one another?
Read Galatians 5:13.
What fleshly desires have we been reading about today?
How can believers keep from turning their freedom into an opportunity for the flesh?
Let us not become boastful, challenging one another, envying one another.
Who is us?
What aren't we to become?
From looking at the previous verses, what should make it possible for someone not to become boastful, challenging others, and/or envying others?
Galatians 5:26 NLT
Let us not become conceited, or irritate one another, or be jealous of one another.
Where else in this chapter does Paul mention their bad behavior?
See 5:7 and 15.
How had they been living?
What has stopped them from running well?
What does Paul seem to be saying they're doing or might be doing?
What does he warn them might happen if they do that?
What had Paul told them to do in the verse right before verse 15?
What did Paul told them to do in the verse right after verse 15?
A cross reference for Galatians 5:26 is Philippians 2:3-4. Read it.
With what kind of attitude does Paul tell them they are to regard each other?
For whose interests should they be looking out for?
A cross reference for Philippians 2:3-4 is Romans 12:10. Read it.
How does Paul tell them they should be relating to one another?
Read Galatians 5:13.
What fleshly desires have we been reading about today?
How can believers keep from turning their freedom into an opportunity for the flesh?
Thursday, August 13, 2009
Living and Walking by the Spirit
Galatians 5:25 NASB
If we live by the Spirit, let us also walk by the Spirit.
What do we live by?
Who should walk by the Spirit?
What should those who live by the Spirit also do?
How do we walk?
What phrase is repeated in this short verse?
Here is Wuest's word-for-word English translation of the Greek for verse 25:
In view of the fact that we are being sustained in spiritual life by the Spirit, by means of the Spirit let us go on ordering our conduct.
I looked up "live" and "walk" for this verse in Strong's.
Live G2198 zao to live (literally or figuatively)
Walk G4748 stoicheo to march in (military) rank (keep step), i.e. (figuratively) to conform to virtue and piety
Now let's relate this verse to its context.
What has Paul just said has happened to our flesh in verse 24?
Read what Paul wrote in Galatians 2:19-20.
So, if our flesh has been destroyed, how is it that we live?
From where did we get that Spirit? See Galatians 4:6.
Who made it possible for us to obtain that Spirit? See Galatians 3:13-14.
In Galatians 1:3-5, what did Paul tell the Galatians that Christ had done for them?
Why did Paul say that Christ did that?
What are some of the deeds of this present evil age? See Galatians 5:19-21.
If you're living and walking by the Spirit, what is your relationship to these behaviors?
What does Paul remind us of in Galatians 5:16?
And what evidence will the world see if we are walking by the Spirit? Read Galatians 5:22-23.
What did Paul say others did when they saw the changes that had taken place in his life after he became a Spirit-filled follower of Christ? See Galatians 1:23-24.
As you live by the Spirit today, pray that you will also walk by the Spirit, so that others will be glorifying God because of you.
If we live by the Spirit, let us also walk by the Spirit.
What do we live by?
Who should walk by the Spirit?
What should those who live by the Spirit also do?
How do we walk?
What phrase is repeated in this short verse?
Here is Wuest's word-for-word English translation of the Greek for verse 25:
In view of the fact that we are being sustained in spiritual life by the Spirit, by means of the Spirit let us go on ordering our conduct.
I looked up "live" and "walk" for this verse in Strong's.
Live G2198 zao to live (literally or figuatively)
Walk G4748 stoicheo to march in (military) rank (keep step), i.e. (figuratively) to conform to virtue and piety
Now let's relate this verse to its context.
What has Paul just said has happened to our flesh in verse 24?
Read what Paul wrote in Galatians 2:19-20.
So, if our flesh has been destroyed, how is it that we live?
From where did we get that Spirit? See Galatians 4:6.
Who made it possible for us to obtain that Spirit? See Galatians 3:13-14.
In Galatians 1:3-5, what did Paul tell the Galatians that Christ had done for them?
Why did Paul say that Christ did that?
What are some of the deeds of this present evil age? See Galatians 5:19-21.
If you're living and walking by the Spirit, what is your relationship to these behaviors?
What does Paul remind us of in Galatians 5:16?
And what evidence will the world see if we are walking by the Spirit? Read Galatians 5:22-23.
What did Paul say others did when they saw the changes that had taken place in his life after he became a Spirit-filled follower of Christ? See Galatians 1:23-24.
As you live by the Spirit today, pray that you will also walk by the Spirit, so that others will be glorifying God because of you.
Wednesday, August 12, 2009
Crucified Flesh
Galatians 5:24 NASB
Now those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires.
Who has crucified the flesh with its passions and desires?
To whom do those belong who have crucified the flesh?
What have those who belong to Christ Jesus crucified?
What has been crucified along with the flesh?
Exactly what does Paul mean when he says "crucified the flesh"?
Let's look up "crucified" in Strong's. Used in this verse, it's number is G4717. The Greek word is "stauroo," and it means "to impale on a cross; figuratively to extinguish (subdue) passion or selfishness."
Earlier in Galatians 2:20, Paul spoke about being crucified with Christ. The number for that "crucified" is 4957, and its Greek word is "systauroo," meaning "to impale in company with (literally or figuratively)."
Read Galatians 3:13-14.
How did Christ redeem us from the curse of the Law?
How did He become a curse?
What is meant by "hangs on a tree"?
And what do we receive because Christ did that?
Read Gal. 2:20.
Who hung on that tree with Christ?
And for the person who hung on the tree with Christ, what is the result?
Read Galatians 3:26-29.
What do those who have faith in Christ Jesus become?
Read today's verse again.
In what tense is the verb?
What has been crucified along with the flesh?
One of the footnotes with this verse is Romans 6:6. Let's read Romans 6:1-7.
In the NASB version, Paul uses "sin," as he uses "passions and desires of the flesh" in Galatians 5:24.
Read Galatians 5:19-21.
What other term does Paul use for the "passions and desires of the flesh"?
As you think about Galatians 5:24, think about the enormity of what Paul has said, not only for these Galatian believers, but for you.
Now those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires.
Who has crucified the flesh with its passions and desires?
To whom do those belong who have crucified the flesh?
What have those who belong to Christ Jesus crucified?
What has been crucified along with the flesh?
Exactly what does Paul mean when he says "crucified the flesh"?
Let's look up "crucified" in Strong's. Used in this verse, it's number is G4717. The Greek word is "stauroo," and it means "to impale on a cross; figuratively to extinguish (subdue) passion or selfishness."
Earlier in Galatians 2:20, Paul spoke about being crucified with Christ. The number for that "crucified" is 4957, and its Greek word is "systauroo," meaning "to impale in company with (literally or figuratively)."
Read Galatians 3:13-14.
How did Christ redeem us from the curse of the Law?
How did He become a curse?
What is meant by "hangs on a tree"?
And what do we receive because Christ did that?
Read Gal. 2:20.
Who hung on that tree with Christ?
And for the person who hung on the tree with Christ, what is the result?
Read Galatians 3:26-29.
What do those who have faith in Christ Jesus become?
Read today's verse again.
In what tense is the verb?
What has been crucified along with the flesh?
One of the footnotes with this verse is Romans 6:6. Let's read Romans 6:1-7.
In the NASB version, Paul uses "sin," as he uses "passions and desires of the flesh" in Galatians 5:24.
Read Galatians 5:19-21.
What other term does Paul use for the "passions and desires of the flesh"?
As you think about Galatians 5:24, think about the enormity of what Paul has said, not only for these Galatian believers, but for you.
Tuesday, August 11, 2009
The Fruit of the Spirit
Galatians 5:22-23 NASB
22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness,
23 gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law.
What contrast word starts these two verses?
How is it possible to practice love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control?
With what is this fruit of the Spirit being contrasted?
Against what is there no law?
How does this relate to what Paul said in verse 18?
So, in contrast, what would there be law against?
What is Paul trying to make clear in this book for the Galatians and for all believers who hear these words?
What don't you need for living the Christian life?
What do you need for living the Christian life?
What will practicing the deeds listed in verses 19-21 not lead to?
In contrast, what will exhibiting the fruit of the Spirit lead to?
There are many good studies on the fruit of the Spirit. We're not going to take the time to study it any more in depth that what is here, but for those of you who are planning to be a part of The Gathering this fall at NW Hills, there is going to be a Beth Moore study on the fruit of the Spirit that you might like to join.
22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness,
23 gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law.
What contrast word starts these two verses?
How is it possible to practice love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control?
With what is this fruit of the Spirit being contrasted?
Against what is there no law?
How does this relate to what Paul said in verse 18?
So, in contrast, what would there be law against?
What is Paul trying to make clear in this book for the Galatians and for all believers who hear these words?
What don't you need for living the Christian life?
What do you need for living the Christian life?
What will practicing the deeds listed in verses 19-21 not lead to?
In contrast, what will exhibiting the fruit of the Spirit lead to?
There are many good studies on the fruit of the Spirit. We're not going to take the time to study it any more in depth that what is here, but for those of you who are planning to be a part of The Gathering this fall at NW Hills, there is going to be a Beth Moore study on the fruit of the Spirit that you might like to join.
Saturday, August 8, 2009
The Deeds of the Flesh
Galatians 5:19-21 NASB
19 Now the deeds of the flesh are evident, which are: immorality, impurity, sensuality,
20 idolatry, sorcery, enmities, strife, jealousy, outbursts of anger, disputes, dissensions, factions,
21 envying, drunkenness, carousing, and things like these, of which I forewarn you just as I have forewarned you that those who practice such things shall not inherit the kingdom of God.
If you want to inherit the kingdom of God, what shouldn't you be practicing?
What has Paul said earlier in this letter about an inheritance and the heirs of this inheritance?
Read Galatians 3:18, 29; 4:1-7, 30-31.
So, up to this point, what has Paul said about an inheritance and its heirs?
19 Now the deeds of the flesh are evident, which are: immorality, impurity, sensuality,
20 idolatry, sorcery, enmities, strife, jealousy, outbursts of anger, disputes, dissensions, factions,
21 envying, drunkenness, carousing, and things like these, of which I forewarn you just as I have forewarned you that those who practice such things shall not inherit the kingdom of God.
If you want to inherit the kingdom of God, what shouldn't you be practicing?
What has Paul said earlier in this letter about an inheritance and the heirs of this inheritance?
Read Galatians 3:18, 29; 4:1-7, 30-31.
So, up to this point, what has Paul said about an inheritance and its heirs?
- The inheritance is based on a promise made to Abraham and his offspring: it is not based on the law.
- If you belong to Christ, then you are Abraham's offspring, and you are heirs according to promise.
- Those who belong to Christ have the Spirit of God living in their hearts because they are sons of God, and if you're a son, then you're an heir through God.
- The son of the bondwoman shall not be an heir with the son of the free woman, and we are children of the free woman.
If you practice the above behaviors listed in verses 19-21, what does it show about your relationship to God? What is a consequence of practicing such behaviors?
How can a believer keep from practicing such behaviors? What did Paul tell the Galatian believers earlier in this chapter?
How would carrying verse 16 in your heart and mind keep you confident of your freedom from such behaviors?
If (your name) walks by the Spirit, (your name) will not carry out the desire of the flesh.
Thursday, August 6, 2009
Under the Law or Led by the Spirit?
Galatians 5:18 NASB
But if you are led by the Spirit, you are not under the Law.
What two things are contrasted in this verse?
If you were to draw a picture of a believer's relationship with the Spirit, what would it look like?
If you were to draw a picture of a believer's relationship with the Law, what would it look like?
When I looked up "led by the Spirit" in Strong's, I found it used in two other NT verses besides this one. Read Luke 4:1 and Romans 8:14.
In Luke 4:1, who is led about by the Spirit in the wilderness?
In Romans 8:14, what do we learn about those who are led by the Spirit of God?
When I looked up "under the Law" in Strong's, I found more than two other verses. Let's look at two in Romans and five in Galatians.
Read Romans 3:19 and 6:14.
To whom does the Law speak?
Why does the Law speak to those people?
Who is accountable to God?
When is sin your master?
When is sin not your master?
Read Galatians 3:23; 4:4-5, 21; and 5:18.
Where were we kept before faith came?
Who was born under the Law in order that He might redeem those who were under the Law?
Why did He want to redeem those under the Law?
Who is not under the Law?
Who leads those who are not under the Law?
Let's think about all those verses to see what truths come forth.
What are the two conditions of people in this world?
Which ones are led by the Spirit?
Which ones are known as "sons of God"?
What made this possible? Why aren't these people still under the Law?
Which ones are not led by the Spirit?
What are they under?
What is their master?
To whom is the world accountable?
Which choice--led by the Spirit or under the Law--leads to freedom?
But if you are led by the Spirit, you are not under the Law.
What two things are contrasted in this verse?
If you were to draw a picture of a believer's relationship with the Spirit, what would it look like?
If you were to draw a picture of a believer's relationship with the Law, what would it look like?
When I looked up "led by the Spirit" in Strong's, I found it used in two other NT verses besides this one. Read Luke 4:1 and Romans 8:14.
In Luke 4:1, who is led about by the Spirit in the wilderness?
In Romans 8:14, what do we learn about those who are led by the Spirit of God?
When I looked up "under the Law" in Strong's, I found more than two other verses. Let's look at two in Romans and five in Galatians.
Read Romans 3:19 and 6:14.
To whom does the Law speak?
Why does the Law speak to those people?
Who is accountable to God?
When is sin your master?
When is sin not your master?
Read Galatians 3:23; 4:4-5, 21; and 5:18.
Where were we kept before faith came?
Who was born under the Law in order that He might redeem those who were under the Law?
Why did He want to redeem those under the Law?
Who is not under the Law?
Who leads those who are not under the Law?
Let's think about all those verses to see what truths come forth.
What are the two conditions of people in this world?
Which ones are led by the Spirit?
Which ones are known as "sons of God"?
What made this possible? Why aren't these people still under the Law?
Which ones are not led by the Spirit?
What are they under?
What is their master?
To whom is the world accountable?
Which choice--led by the Spirit or under the Law--leads to freedom?
Wednesday, August 5, 2009
Led By The Spirit
Galatians 5:18 NASB
But if you are led by the Spirit, you are not under the Law.
When are you not under the Law?
What do you need to be led by not to be under the Law?
If you are under the Law, then what would you not be led by?
So, can you be led or under both the Spirit and the Law at the same time?
Let's see what more we can learn by looking at the cross references for this verse.
Read Romans 8:14.
What are all the people who are being led by the Spirit of God?
Read Romans 6:14.
If you are not under law, what are you under?
If you are not under the law, what shall not be a master over you?
Read Romans 7:4.
Through the body of Christ, what did we die to?
To whom were we joined?
Why were we joined to Him? What are we to be doing for God?
Read 1 Timothy 1:9.
For whom is the law made?
For whom is the law not made?
Read Galatians 5:18 once more.
How did reading the cross references increase your appreciation for all that this verse is saying to believers?
But if you are led by the Spirit, you are not under the Law.
When are you not under the Law?
What do you need to be led by not to be under the Law?
If you are under the Law, then what would you not be led by?
So, can you be led or under both the Spirit and the Law at the same time?
Let's see what more we can learn by looking at the cross references for this verse.
Read Romans 8:14.
What are all the people who are being led by the Spirit of God?
Read Romans 6:14.
If you are not under law, what are you under?
If you are not under the law, what shall not be a master over you?
Read Romans 7:4.
Through the body of Christ, what did we die to?
To whom were we joined?
Why were we joined to Him? What are we to be doing for God?
Read 1 Timothy 1:9.
For whom is the law made?
For whom is the law not made?
Read Galatians 5:18 once more.
How did reading the cross references increase your appreciation for all that this verse is saying to believers?
Tuesday, August 4, 2009
Freedom From What?
Galatians 5:13-17
13 For you were called to freedom, brethren; only do not turn your freedom into an opportunity for the flesh, but through love serve one another.
14 For the whole Law is fulfilled in one word, in the statement, "YOU SHALL LOVE YOUR NEIGHBOR AS YOURSELF."
15 But if you bite and devour one another, take care lest you be consumed by one another.
16 But I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not carry out the desire of the flesh.
17 For the flesh sets its desire against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh; for these are in opposition to one another, so that you may not do the things that you please.
What does Paul say that believers were called to?
What does he say prevents believers from doing the things that they please?
What did Paul mean by "the flesh"?
Let's look up "flesh" in Strong's. It's number is G4561, and its corresponding Greek word is "sarx." Here's what it says: flesh (as stripped of the skin), i.e. (strictly) the meat of an animal (as food), (by extension) the body (as opposed to the soul [or spirit], or as the symbol of what is external, or as by the means of kindred), or (by implication) human nature (with its frailties [physical or moral] and passions), or (specifically) a human being (as such), and it's translated with these words: carnal, carnally, carnally minded, flesh, fleshly.
What does Paul specifically teach us about the flesh?
Let's make a list.
13 For you were called to freedom, brethren; only do not turn your freedom into an opportunity for the flesh, but through love serve one another.
14 For the whole Law is fulfilled in one word, in the statement, "YOU SHALL LOVE YOUR NEIGHBOR AS YOURSELF."
15 But if you bite and devour one another, take care lest you be consumed by one another.
16 But I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not carry out the desire of the flesh.
17 For the flesh sets its desire against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh; for these are in opposition to one another, so that you may not do the things that you please.
What does Paul say that believers were called to?
What does he say prevents believers from doing the things that they please?
What did Paul mean by "the flesh"?
Let's look up "flesh" in Strong's. It's number is G4561, and its corresponding Greek word is "sarx." Here's what it says: flesh (as stripped of the skin), i.e. (strictly) the meat of an animal (as food), (by extension) the body (as opposed to the soul [or spirit], or as the symbol of what is external, or as by the means of kindred), or (by implication) human nature (with its frailties [physical or moral] and passions), or (specifically) a human being (as such), and it's translated with these words: carnal, carnally, carnally minded, flesh, fleshly.
What does Paul specifically teach us about the flesh?
Let's make a list.
- We are not to use our freedom as an opportunity for the flesh. (G 5:13)
- If we walk by the Spirit, we will not carry out the desire of the flesh. (G 5:16)
- The flesh and the Spirit are in opposition to one another. (G 5:17)
- The flesh keeps us from doing what we please. (G 5:17)
From what Paul teaches us in these verses about the flesh, what attitude would he desire that his readers have toward the flesh and its desires? What does he warn them they may do to one another if they're walking in the flesh instead of the Spirit?
Read what Paul wrote to the Romans in Romans 7:5-6. As you go through your day, be aware of this war between your flesh and the Spirit of God living within you. What do you know that should help you to better live your life today?
Monday, August 3, 2009
Freedom
Galatians 5:13-14 NASB
13 For you were called to freedom, brethren; only do not turn your freedom into an opportunity for the flesh, but through love serve one another.
14 For the whole law is fulfilled in one word, in the statement, "YOU SHALL LOVE YOUR NEIGHBOR AS YOURSELF."
This morning I was curious about "freedom." Exactly what did Paul mean by using that word? So, I turned to "freedom" in Strong's and found that it's used twice in the entire KJV Bible, but not in Galatians 5:13. I looked up Galatians 5:13 in my King James Version and saw that it used "liberty" instead of "freedom." I looked up "liberty" in Strong's. For this verse, it's #G1657, and that corresponds to the Greek word "eleutheria," which means "freedom," legitimate or licentious, chiefly moral or ceremonially.
After reading that definition, I saw why it was so important for Paul to add that last part of verse 13--to make sure that his readers knew exactly what kind of freedom he was talking about.
For what did Paul want them to use their freedom?
And if somewhere really were interested in keeping the law, what is the essence of the law?
In thinking about freedom being liberty from moral and ceremonial laws, which is what God's law is, what strikes you about what Paul is saying in these two verses?
If they truly love their neighbors as themselves, would they need an external written law?
13 For you were called to freedom, brethren; only do not turn your freedom into an opportunity for the flesh, but through love serve one another.
14 For the whole law is fulfilled in one word, in the statement, "YOU SHALL LOVE YOUR NEIGHBOR AS YOURSELF."
This morning I was curious about "freedom." Exactly what did Paul mean by using that word? So, I turned to "freedom" in Strong's and found that it's used twice in the entire KJV Bible, but not in Galatians 5:13. I looked up Galatians 5:13 in my King James Version and saw that it used "liberty" instead of "freedom." I looked up "liberty" in Strong's. For this verse, it's #G1657, and that corresponds to the Greek word "eleutheria," which means "freedom," legitimate or licentious, chiefly moral or ceremonially.
After reading that definition, I saw why it was so important for Paul to add that last part of verse 13--to make sure that his readers knew exactly what kind of freedom he was talking about.
For what did Paul want them to use their freedom?
And if somewhere really were interested in keeping the law, what is the essence of the law?
In thinking about freedom being liberty from moral and ceremonial laws, which is what God's law is, what strikes you about what Paul is saying in these two verses?
If they truly love their neighbors as themselves, would they need an external written law?
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
