Mission Hills Church
"It is for freedom that Christ has set us free." (Galatians 5:1) So why are we so prone to shackling ourselves and others with things that keep us from experiencing that freedom? Join us for a study of the book of Galatians where the Apostle Paul teaches us how to live free by faith.
Belonging to God and His people depends on believing in Jesus.
Galatians 2:19 NIV
The law kills the idea that “better than” is “good enough”.
Most people think “better than” is “good enough.”
In all the most important areas of life, “better than” is NOT “good enough.”
God said, “Be holy, because I am holy.” (Lev 11:45)
Jesus said, “Be perfect, therefore, as your heavenly Father is perfect.” (Mat 5:48).
I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. (Gal. 2:20a)
Faith in Jesus kills the idea that we have to work for God's favor, and raises the hope that we can live by God's power.
The life I now live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me. (Gal. 2:20b)
Legal-ism says believing + behaving -> belonging.
Grace-ism says believing -> belonging + behaving
Galatians 2:21 NIV
Grace-ism actually produces what legal-ism only promises.
Galatians 3:1-2 NIV
The Holy Spirit is our proof of belonging to God.
The Spirit you received brought about your adoption to sonship. And by him we cry, “Abba, Father.” (Romans 8:15)
The Holy Spirit is power for becoming righteous.
Galatians 3:3-5 NIV
The Spirit comes to us by grace and works in us by grace.
Galatians 3:4-5 NIV
Galatians 3:6 NIV
Even the very first Jew belonged by believing!
Galatians 3:7-9 NIV
Everyone who believes in Jesus is blessed with Abraham.
Those who don't rely on believing may not experience blessing.
Galatians 3:10 NIV
What defines you can destroy you.
Galatians 3:11-12 NIV
Galatians 3:13-14 NIV
Grace is the glue that holds the Gospel together.
Questions for reflection:
1. Where in my life do I still buy the lie that “better than” is “good enough”?
2. How much is grace the glue that holds my faith together?
3. Where in my life am I short-circuiting the Spirit's power by relying on my own?