The Grace Message

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?

What did Jesus mean by "binding" and "loosing"? Why did Jesus ask why a man called him "Good Teacher"? Does God humble us? Or do we humble ourselves like Jesus did? Doesn't Calvinism leave people wondering if they were truly chosen? Does the Lord's Supper literally become the body and blood of Jesus? Do you think we can say the sin mentioned in 1 John is the sin of unbelief?

Have I committed the blasphemy of the Holy Spirit? Why does Hebrews 11:13 say they didn't receive what was promised? Are we really supposed to hate our relatives? What is Jesus saying in Luke 14:26? And how does it apply to Christians today?

Is repentance necessary for salvation? Can we know who is saved and who is not? What are your thoughts on the movement called “Lordship salvation”? Why did Jesus say “many are called, but few are chosen”?

Will all of Israel be saved? Can unbelievers or children participate in the Lord’s Supper? Why does 1 John say Jesus is our Advocate? Is He up in Heaven constantly arguing on our behalf with an angry Father?

Is the foot washing in John 13 symbolic of our partial forgiveness and need for daily touchups through confession? What do you think about fearing God? Paul told Timothy that all Scripture is useful for teaching, so how does the Law factor in?

Special Teaching Edition: What does it mean to be "complete" in Christ? Is there really a "second blessing" or "second baptism"? How can the Christian life be a life without rules? What is the best way to fight temptation?

There were 430 years between the promise given to Abraham and the Law given to Moses. Why is this so important? And the Law was ordained by angels, but why is this such a big deal? Find out in my latest message on Galatians 3 in our series called, “Liberated!” Here, I examine the main function of the Law and its relevance in the life of believers. And I unpack the concept of being “clothed with Christ,” which speaks to our closeness to Him and His indwelling presence within us. Uncovering these powerful themes will deepen your understanding of the Gospel and its implications for your life. And it will inspire you to embrace the freedom and righteousness that are freely given to you. Check it out to be encouraged in God’s grace! Discussion Questions for Galatians 3:15-29: 1. Read verses 15-18. What’s the main point about the (new) covenant promise and the Law? Why mention the number of years between them? 2. Read verse 19. Why the Law? Ordained by whom? Until when? 3. Read verse 20. How does this allude to the truth expounded upon in Hebrews 6:13-20? 4. Read verse 21 carefully and react to this profound truth: We have an imparted-life type righteousness. It’s real! 5. Read verses 22-25. What’s the main function of the Law? Does it play a role in the life of believers? Why or why not? 6. Read verse 27. What does it mean to you to be “clothed with Christ”? How does this speak to your closeness to Him? (Hint: In your answer, don’t neglect His indwelling as well!) 7. Read verse 28. How does this speak to unity? How does it also speak to an identity deeper than the roles we play in society?

How can I hear God’s voice? My wife passed away, and I wonder if she still remembers me in Heaven? I’ve struggled in the past with thoughts of violence. Am I forgiven for those? Do some groups believe Jesus is the archangel Michael? Are they saved? Who are the 144,000 spoken of in the Book of Revelation? I believe a guardian angel rescued me on the highway!

What does it mean to receive the Holy Spirit when you believe? Can my husband and I take a break from tithing? So many preachers are saying it's "God's will" to heal everyone, so why aren't we all healed? Can we lose our salvation?