GALATIANS

INTRODUCTION

Some books of the New Testament were written to an individual, others were written to a congregation, but Galatians was written as a sort of chain letter to be passed around to a group of churches in an area. Of course all of the New Testament was written to reveal God's plan for every future generation, but the original recipients and the original audience was much more limited.

Because of the 'chain letter' nature of Galatians, you will find neither the individual greetings nor mention of specific problems like Paul's other letters. Having said that, it is likely that these churches of Galatia include Lystra, Derbe, Iconium, and even Antioch of Pisidia. If these are not the congregations intended to receive the letter, then we don't know who else it could have been. Paul and Barnabas had visited these first 3 cities and established churches on their first journey and Paul returned to them again and again in Acts16:6 - 18:23. Antioch was the congregation that had originally sent Paul and Barnabas out to preach. Timothy joined Paul's travels from the Lystra and Derbe area in Acts 16:1.

(Acts 16:6) Now when they had gone throughout Phrygia and the region of Galatia, and were forbidden of the Holy Ghost to preach the word in Asia,

(Acts 18:23) And after he had spent some time there, he departed, and went over all the country of Galatia and Phrygia in order, strengthening all the disciples.

(1 Corinthians 16:1) Now concerning the collection for the saints, as I have given order to the churches of Galatia, even so do ye.

What subject had Paul taught the Galatians about according to this verse?

Is there anything in the letter to the Galatians about this subject?

Would it be safe to say that not all necessary apostolic teaching is contained in a single letter?

Why do you think there might be two letters that seem so different in their teaching that some have claimed they contradict?

What examples in life can you think of where two seemingly opposing commands could be given and both be right?

(2 Timothy 4:10) For Demas hath forsaken me, having loved this present world, and is departed unto Thessalonica; Crescens to Galatia, Titus unto Dalmatia.

Who had gone to work in Galatia?

Do you know anything else about this worker?

What is one possible reason that Paul did not send Timothy to work in Galatia?

(1 Peter 1:1) Peter, an apostle of Jesus Christ, to the strangers scattered throughout Pontus, Galatia, Cappadocia, Asia, and Bithynia,

Who besides Paul wrote a letter to the Christians in Galatia?

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(Galatians 1:1) Paul, an apostle, (not of men, neither by man, but by Jesus Christ, and God the Father, who raised him from the dead;)

What is an apostle?

Who did Paul say did not make him an apostle?

Who did Paul say made him an apostle?

How did Paul say Jesus rose from the dead?

(Galatians 1:2) And all the brethren which are with me, unto the churches of Galatia:

Who other than Paul is mentioned as sending this letter?

To whom is the letter written?

(Galatians 1:3) Grace be to you and peace from God the Father, and from our Lord Jesus Christ,

What two blessings does Paul want them to receive?

From whom will they receive those blessings?

(Galatians 1:4) Who gave himself for our sins, that he might deliver us from this present evil world, according to the will of God and our Father:

Who does Paul say gave himself for our sins?

Why did Paul say this individual gave himself?

Whose will was it that this happen?

(Galatians 1:5) To whom be glory for ever and ever. Amen.

Who should receive glory for ever?

Why does Paul end this verse with "Amen"?

(Galatians 1:6) I marvel that ye are so soon removed from him that called you into the grace of Christ unto another gospel:

What did Paul marvel about?

Does this verse indicate that it had been a long time or a short time since they had become Christians?

Is it possible for someone who has Christ to be removed from Him?

(Galatians 1:7) Which is not another; but there be some that trouble you, and would pervert the gospel of Christ.

How many gospels are there?

How were some troubling the Galatians?

Do we have people today that are doing the same thing?

(Galatians 1:8) But though we, or an angel from heaven, preach any other gospel unto you than that which we have preached unto you, let him be accursed.

What did Paul say would happen if one of the apostles preached a different gospel?

What would happen if an angel preached a different gospel?

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(Galatians 1:9) As we said before, so say I now again, If any man preach any other gospel unto you than that ye have received, let him be accursed.

Why do you think Paul repeated this curse?

Did Paul think there were people who would teach something different from what they had been taught from the beginning?

(Galatians 1:10) For do I now persuade men, or God? or do I seek to please men? for if I yet pleased men, I should not be the servant of Christ.

What is the answer to Paul's first question?

What is the answer to his second question?

What do we call a question like the questions he asked in this verse?

Is it possible to please people and be a servant of Christ at the same time?

(Galatians 1:11) But I certify you, brethren, that the gospel which was preached of me is not after man.

What did Paul promise about the gospel he preached?

To whom was he making this promise?

(Galatians 1:12) For I neither received it of man, neither was I taught it, but by the revelation of Jesus Christ.

Who gave Paul the gospel he was preaching?

How did Paul get the gospel he was preaching?

What 2 things did he say were not ways he got the gospel he was preaching?

(Galatians 1:13) For ye have heard of my conversation in time past in the Jews' religion, how that beyond measure I persecuted the church of God, and wasted it:

What had they heard about?

What 2 things had Paul done to the church?

How much had Paul done these 2 things?

What examples in Acts can you think of that showed what Paul was doing?

(Galatians 1:14) And profited in the Jews' religion above many my equals in mine own nation, being more exceedingly zealous of the traditions of my fathers.

What had Paul done in the Jews' religion?

How had Paul done compared to others?

What was Paul's attitude toward his religion?

What were the 'traditions of my fathers' that Paul was speaking about?

(Galatians 1:15) But when it pleased God, who separated me from my mother's womb, and called me by his grace,

Who was in control of Paul's birth?

How was Paul called?

Who had to be pleased?

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(Galatians 1:16) To reveal his Son in me, that I might preach him among the heathen; immediately I conferred not with flesh and blood:

What was God pleased to do in Paul?

Why did God do this?

What did Paul not do?

When did Paul not do this?

To whom was Paul to preach?

(Galatians 1:17) Neither went I up to Jerusalem to them which were apostles before me; but I went into Arabia, and returned again unto Damascus.

Where did Paul not go?

Where did Paul go first?

Where did Paul go next?

What do you think Paul did in these places?

(Galatians 1:18) Then after three years I went up to Jerusalem to see Peter, and abode with him fifteen days.

How long was it before Paul went to Jerusalem?

Whom did he go to see?

With whom did he stay?

How long did he stay?

(Galatians 1:19) But other of the apostles saw I none, save James the Lord's brother.

What was the name of the only other person did Paul mention seeing?

What 2 things other than his name does Paul tell us about who this person was?

What other person by the same name had been executed in Jerusalem?

(Galatians 1:20) Now the things which I write unto you, behold, before God, I lie not.

Whom did Paul call to be a witness?

What did Paul declare about the things he was writing?

(Galatians 1:21) Afterwards I came into the regions of Syria and Cilicia;

Where (2 areas) did Paul go after he left Jerusalem?

What do you think Paul did in these places?

(Galatians 1:22) And was unknown by face unto the churches of Judaea which were in Christ:

Who had not seen Paul?

(Galatians 1:23) But they had heard only, That he which persecuted us in times past now preacheth the faith which once he destroyed.

What had those who had not met Paul heard about him?

(Galatians 1:24) And they glorified God in me.

What did the things they heard about Paul cause them to do?

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(Galatians 2:1) Then fourteen years after I went up again to Jerusalem with Barnabas, and took Titus with me also.

How long after Paul's conversion had it been when he went back to Jerusalem again?

Who went with Paul this time?

What chapter in Acts tells about this trip to Jerusalem and the results?

(Galatians 2:2) And I went up by revelation, and communicated unto them that gospel which I preach among the Gentiles, but privately to them which were of reputation, lest by any means I should run, or had run, in vain.

How did Paul choose this time to go to Jerusalem?

What did he communicate when he got there?

To whom did he communicate it?

What problem was he trying to avoid by doing this privately?

(Galatians 2:3) But neither Titus, who was with me, being a Greek, was compelled to be circumcised:

What do we learn about who Titus was?

What had Paul refused to make Titus do when he became a Christian?

What does Acts 15:1-5 tell us the problem being addressed at the meeting in Jerusalem was?

How did that affect Paul's preaching?

What result did the meeting have on Titus, other Greeks, and Gentiles?

(Galatians 2:4) And that because of false brethren unawares brought in, who came in privily to spy out our liberty which we have in Christ Jesus, that they might bring us into bondage:

What kind of brethren does Paul say had caused this problem?

How did these men get into the church?

Where do we have liberty?

What two things did these people set out to do?

What is the difference in Paul going to the leadership 'privately' and these who came in 'privily'

(Galatians 2:5) To whom we gave place by subjection, no, not for an hour; that the truth of the gospel might continue with you.

Was Paul a pushover?

Did Paul believe in sitting by while people taught lies?

How long did Paul put up with these false teachers?

What did Paul want to allow to continue?

(Galatians 2:6) But of these who seemed to be somewhat, (whatsoever they were, it maketh no matter to me: God accepteth no man's person:) for they who seemed to be somewhat in conference added nothing to me:

Who do you think Paul is describing as those who "seemed to be somewhat"?

Why did it not matter to Paul what they were?

What did these seemingly important people add to Paul's teaching?

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(Galatians 2:7) But contrariwise, when they saw that the gospel of the uncircumcision was committed unto me, as the gospel of the circumcision was unto Peter;

What was committed to Paul?

What was committed to Peter?

Who recognized this arrangement, who are the 'they'?

Who are the circumcision?

Who are the uncircumcision?

Were there two different gospels being preached?

(Galatians 2:8) (For he that wrought effectually in Peter to the apostleship of the circumcision, the same was mighty in me toward the Gentiles:)

Who was working in Peter and Paul?

What two words describe the work in Peter and Paul, respectively?

(Galatians 2:9) And when James, Cephas, and John, who seemed to be pillars, perceived the grace that was given unto me, they gave to me and Barnabas the right hands of fellowship; that we should go unto the heathen, and they unto the circumcision.

What 3 people are mentioned as seeming to be pillars?

What did they give Paul and Barnabas?

Where were Paul and Barnabas to go preach?

Which James was this?

What is Cephas' other name?

Which John is this?

(Galatians 2:10) Only they would that we should remember the poor; the same which I also was forward to do.

In addition to preaching what one other thing did they want Paul to do?

What does 'remember' imply here?

Did Paul want to do this additional thing?

(Galatians 2:11) But when Peter was come to Antioch, I withstood him to the face, because he was to be blamed.

Where did Peter and Paul see each other again?

How did Paul deal with someone in sin?

Was Paul afraid to confront Peter because of Peter's position in the church?

Why did Paul confront Peter?

Was Peter infallable?

Could someone with the Holy Spirit, even the miraculous abilities, still sin?

Did Paul call for Peter to resign his position?

If we should not talk about people behind their backs, why does Paul tell about this event?

Did Paul do the right thing by confronting Peter right then and there instead of talking to him about it privately? Why or Why not?

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(Galatians 2:12) For before that certain came from James, he did eat with the Gentiles: but when they were come, he withdrew and separated himself, fearing them which were of the circumcision.

What had Peter been doing in the beginning?

How did he change?

What event caused the change?

Why did he change?

Did James come to Antioch?

(Galatians 2:13) And the other Jews dissembled likewise with him; insomuch that Barnabas also was carried away with their dissimulation.

What effect did Peter's example have?

Who is specifically mentioned as getting carried away?

What is dissimulation?

(Galatians 2:14) But when I saw that they walked not uprightly according to the truth of the gospel, I said unto Peter before them all, If thou, being a Jew, livest after the manner of Gentiles, and not as do the Jews, why compellest thou the Gentiles to live as do the Jews?

How was Peter walking?

Why do you think Paul spoke up right in front of everyone?

What did Paul mean when he said Peter was living like the Gentiles and not like the Jews?

What did Paul say Peter was compelling the Gentiles to do?

(Galatians 2:15) We who are Jews by nature, and not sinners of the Gentiles,

Who is the 'we' who are Jews?

What did Paul say about the Gentiles?

(Galatians 2:16) Knowing that a man is not justified by the works of the law, but by the faith of Jesus Christ, even we have believed in Jesus Christ, that we might be justified by the faith of Christ, and not by the works of the law: for by the works of the law shall no flesh be justified.

What did Paul say they knew about how a man is not justified?

How did Paul say a man is justified?

How many people did Paul say would be justified by works of the law?

(Galatians 2:17) But if, while we seek to be justified by Christ, we ourselves also are found sinners, is therefore Christ the minister of sin? God forbid.

Can someone accidentally be justified by Christ?

Is Christ to blame for the sins committed by those who claim to follow Him?

What does God forbid in this verse?

(Galatians 2:18) For if I build again the things which I destroyed, I make myself a transgressor.

What is someone who rebuilds the things they had destroyed?

Has there ever been a time in your life that you did that?

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(Galatians 2:19) For I through the law am dead to the law, that I might live unto God.

How did Paul say that he was dead to the law?

What would Paul be able to do since he was dead to the law?

(Galatians 2:20) I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me.

Had Paul literally been physically crucified?

How had Paul been crucified?

Who was living in Paul?

How did Paul say he was living in the flesh?

What is the difference 'the faith of the Son of God' and 'faith in the Son of God?

What did the Son of God do for Paul?

(Galatians 2:21) I do not frustrate the grace of God: for if righteousness come by the law, then Christ is dead in vain.

What does Paul not do?

What would happen if righteousness came by the law?

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(Galatians 3:1) O foolish Galatians, who hath bewitched you, that ye should not obey the truth, before whose eyes Jesus Christ hath been evidently set forth, crucified among you?

Was Paul writing to Christians?

Had they obeyed the gospel and obeyed the truth at some time in the past?

Why does he call them foolish?

What teaching had bewitched them?

Had Jesus literally been crucified among them?

(Galatians 3:2) This only would I learn of you, Received ye the Spirit by the works of the law, or by the hearing of faith?

What is the answer to Paul's question?

Why does it matter to Paul's argument how they received the Spirit?

(Galatians 3:3) Are ye so foolish? having begun in the Spirit, are ye now made perfect by the flesh?

Can we be made perfect by the flesh?

(Galatians 3:4) Have ye suffered so many things in vain? if it be yet in vain.

How could their suffering have been in vain?

(Galatians 3:5) He therefore that ministereth to you the Spirit, and worketh miracles among you, doeth he it by the works of the law, or by the hearing of faith?

Who ministered (served /gave) the Spirit to them?

Who worked miracles among them?

Did they get the Spirit and the ability to do miracles from keeping the law or through faith?

Does that mean obedience doesn't matter?

(Galatians 3:6) Even as Abraham believed God, and it was accounted to him for righteousness.

How was Abraham counted as righteous?

What Old Testament passage does Paul reference here?

What 2 other New Testament passages refer to this same verse?

How does this teaching fit with James 2:21-24?

(Galatians 3:7) Know ye therefore that they which are of faith, the same are the children of Abraham.

What does Paul say makes someone a descendant of Abraham?

(Galatians 3:8) And the scripture, foreseeing that God would justify the heathen through faith, preached before the gospel unto Abraham, saying, In thee shall all nations be blessed.

What does Paul mean when he says the scripture was foreseeing something?

How are the heathen justified?

What was preached to Abraham?

Who was to be blessed in Abraham?

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(Galatians 3:9) So then they which be of faith are blessed with faithful Abraham.

Who is blessed with Abraham?

Will Abraham be in Heaven? How?

Can we go to Heaven? How?

(Galatians 3:10) For as many as are of the works of the law are under the curse: for it is written, Cursed is every one that continueth not in all things which are written in the book of the law to do them.

Where are those who live by the works of the law?

What is the source of the recorded curse?

Who is cursed?

Would it be possible to live by the law and not be cursed?

(Galatians 3:11) But that no man is justified by the law in the sight of God, it is evident: for, The just shall live by faith.

How many people in history did God view as justified by the law?

How do those who are justified (the just) live?

What Old Testament prophet is quoted here?

What other 2 New Testament passages quote this same verse?

(Galatians 3:12) And the law is not of faith: but, The man that doeth them shall live in them.

Are the law and faith compatible?

Can you mix the law of Moses with faith in Christ?

Does that mean the Old Testament is worthless? Why or Why not?

What Old Testament verse is referenced here?

(Galatians 3:13) Christ hath redeemed us from the curse of the law, being made a curse for us: for it is written, Cursed is every one that hangeth on a tree:

What did Christ redeem us from?

How did He redeem us?

What Old Testament passage is quoted to describe Jesus' death?

(Galatians 3:14) That the blessing of Abraham might come on the Gentiles through Jesus Christ; that we might receive the promise of the Spirit through faith.

What was the blessing of Abraham?

How did that blessing come on the Gentiles?

How was the promise of the spirit received?

(Galatians 3:15) Brethren, I speak after the manner of men; Though it be but a man's covenant, yet if it be confirmed, no man disannulleth, or addeth thereto.

What illustration does Paul use?

What does "disannulleth" mean?

Can you explain the illustration Paul uses here?

Do things still work the same way today?

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(Galatians 3:16) Now to Abraham and his seed were the promises made. He saith not, And to seeds, as of many; but as of one, And to thy seed, which is Christ.

To whom did God make these promises?

How many descendants does Paul say are included?

Who does Paul say the seed is?

According to John 8:33, who did the Jewish people believe the seed to be?

(Galatians 3:17) And this I say, that the covenant, that was confirmed before of God in Christ, the law, which was four hundred and thirty years after, cannot disannul, that it should make the promise of none effect.

Which came first the covenant or the law?

How much time passed between the first and the second?

Can anything make God's promises ineffective?

(Galatians 3:18) For if the inheritance be of the law, it is no more of promise: but God gave it to Abraham by promise.

How did God give Abraham the inheritance?

Can something be of the law and of the promise at the same time?

(Galatians 3:19) Wherefore then serveth the law? It was added because of transgressions, till the seed should come to whom the promise was made; and it was ordained by angels in the hand of a mediator.

Why did Paul say the law was added?

How long did God intend for the law to be in force?

To whom was the promise made?

How was the law ordained?

What does ordained mean?

Who was the mediator of the law?

(Galatians 3:20) Now a mediator is not a mediator of one, but God is one.

What is a mediator?

Is there a need for a mediator if there are not at least 2 parties involved?

What were the 2 parties involved with the law?

Are there 2 sides that have to come to an agreement when a promise is made?

(Galatians 3:21) Is the law then against the promises of God? God forbid: for if there had been a law given which could have given life, verily righteousness should have been by the law.

Is the law against the promises of God?

Could the law give life?

Could God have made a law that would give life?

If a law gave life what would come by that law?

Can righteousness come by the law?

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(Galatians 3:22) But the scripture hath concluded all under sin, that the promise by faith of Jesus Christ might be given to them that believe.

Who is under sin according to the scripture?

To whom is the promise given?

(Galatians 3:23) But before faith came, we were kept under the law, shut up unto the faith which should afterwards be revealed.

When were people kept under the law?

When were they released?

What does it mean to be kept under the law?

Are we still kept under the law?

(Galatians 3:24) Wherefore the law was our schoolmaster to bring us unto Christ, that we might be justified by faith.

To what does Paul compare the law?

What was the purpose of the law?

How are we justified now that Christ has come?

(Galatians 3:25) But after that faith is come, we are no longer under a schoolmaster.

Why does Paul say we are not under a schoolmaster?

When does he say that ended?

(Galatians 3:26) For ye are all the children of God by faith in Christ Jesus.

What were all the Galatian Christians?	How?

(Galatians 3:27) For as many of you as have been baptized into Christ have put on Christ.

How does Paul say they got into Christ?

Does the Bible tell any other way to get into Christ?

What does Paul say they did when they were baptized?

(Galatians 3:28) There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither bond nor free, there is neither male nor female: for ye are all one in Christ Jesus.

What are the three "neither, nor" statements that Paul makes about being in Christ?

Are these three categories the only ones where we are unified in Christ?

How many divisions are there supposed to be in Christ?

How important do you think unity is in the church?

(Galatians 3:29) And if ye be Christ's, then are ye Abraham's seed, and heirs according to the promise.

To whom should we belong?

What 2 things are we if we belong to the right person?

What part does the law play in the inheritance?

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(Galatians 4:1) Now I say, That the heir, as long as he is a child, differeth nothing from a servant, though he be lord of all;

How does the heir differ from a servant when he is a child?

(Galatians 4:2) But is under tutors and governors until the time appointed of the father.

What is the heir who is a child under?

How long does the heir remain in this situation?

(Galatians 4:3) Even so we, when we were children, were in bondage under the elements of the world:

Who is the "we" that Paul is speaking of here?

Where does Paul say "we" were as children?

What does Paul say "we" were under?

(Galatians 4:4) But when the fulness of the time was come, God sent forth his Son, made of a woman, made under the law,

Who did God send?

When did God send?

What two ways are mentioned that this person was made?

(Galatians 4:5) To redeem them that were under the law, that we might receive the adoption of sons.

Why did God send? (2 things)

(Galatians 4:6) And because ye are sons, God hath sent forth the Spirit of his Son into your hearts, crying, Abba, Father.

What did God send in this verse?

Where did God send it?

What is this Spirit crying?

What does Abba mean?

(Galatians 4:7) Wherefore thou art no more a servant, but a son; and if a son, then an heir of God through Christ.

What were the Galatians before?

What are the Galatians now?

What blessing comes with being a son?

Was this something that was limited to the first century?

(Galatians 4:8) Howbeit then, when ye knew not God, ye did service unto them which by nature are no gods.

Who or what had the Galatians served in the past?

When did they serve this way?

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(Galatians 4:9) But now, after that ye have known God, or rather are known of God, how turn ye again to the weak and beggarly elements, whereunto ye desire again to be in bondage?

What was the problem the Galatians were facing?

Which is more important to know God or be known by God?

Should we ever desire to go back to our life before our adoption into God's family?

(Galatians 4:10) Ye observe days, and months, and times, and years.

What 4 things were the Galatians observing?

What does it mean that they "observed" these things?

(Galatians 4:11) I am afraid of you, lest I have bestowed upon you labour in vain.

Why is Paul afraid of them?

What does Paul mean by the phrase "I am afraid of you"?

(Galatians 4:12) Brethren, I beseech you, be as I am; for I am as ye are: ye have not injured me at all.

What does Paul beg them?

What did Paul say he was?

What did Paul say they had not done?

(Galatians 4:13) Ye know how through infirmity of the flesh I preached the gospel unto you at the first.

How did Paul preach to them?

What did Paul preach to them?

(Galatians 4:14) And my temptation which was in my flesh ye despised not, nor rejected; but received me as an angel of God, even as Christ Jesus.

What did Paul have in his flesh?

How did they not respond to this problem?(2 things)

How did they receive him? (2 ways)

(Galatians 4:15) Where is then the blessedness ye spake of? for I bear you record, that, if it had been possible, ye would have plucked out your own eyes, and have given them to me.

What do you think the answer to Paul's question is?

What would they have done for Paul?

How does this indicate their feelings for Paul?

Can you think of anyone you would be willing to sacrifice for to that level?

What physical malady do some think Paul had because of this verse?

(Galatians 4:16) Am I therefore become your enemy, because I tell you the truth?

How had their feelings for Paul changed?

Why did Paul think their relationship with him had changed?

Who should change to correct the problems in this relationship?

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(Galatians 4:17) They zealously affect you, but not well; yea, they would exclude you, that ye might affect them.

What does zealously mean?

What does affect mean in this context? (Hint: look at how a newer translation translates it.)

What does Paul say about the way these people 'zealously affect' the Galatians? Is it good or bad?

What is the second thing Paul says this group would do?

Why does he say they would do that?

How would you explain what is going on in the situation Paul is describing here?

(Galatians 4:18) But it is good to be zealously affected always in a good thing, and not only when I am present with you.

When does Paul say it is good to be zealously affected?

Should they only have this attitude only when Paul was around?

(Galatians 4:19) My little children, of whom I travail in birth again until Christ be formed in you,

What endearing term does Paul use to describe the Galatians in their relationship with him?

What experience is Paul going through a second time with them?

How long was Paul going to suffer with them?

(Galatians 4:20) I desire to be present with you now, and to change my voice; for I stand in doubt of you.

Where did Paul want to be?

What did he want to change?

How did Paul say he was standing?

(Galatians 4:21) Tell me, ye that desire to be under the law, do ye not hear the law?

Who does Paul address in this verse?

What does he ask them to tell him?

(Galatians 4:22) For it is written, that Abraham had two sons, the one by a bondmaid, the other by a freewoman.

Is Paul quoting a specific verse?

What is the difference in these two sons?

Why does this difference matter?

(Galatians 4:23) But he who was of the bondwoman was born after the flesh; but he of the freewoman was by promise.

How was the son of the bondwoman born?

How was the son of the freewoman born?

Why does it make a difference?

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(Galatians 4:24) Which things are an allegory: for these are the two covenants; the one from the mount Sinai, which gendereth to bondage, which is Agar.

What is an allegory?

What does Paul say are the two covenants?

Who represents mount Sinai?

What does this covenant bring?

(Galatians 4:25) For this Agar is mount Sinai in Arabia, and answereth to Jerusalem which now is, and is in bondage with her children.

What does Agar (Hagar) represent?

Who is in bondage?

(Galatians 4:26) But Jerusalem which is above is free, which is the mother of us all.

What two things does Paul say about Jerusalem which is above?

(Galatians 4:27) For it is written, Rejoice, thou barren that bearest not; break forth and cry, thou that travailest not: for the desolate hath many more children than she which hath an husband.

Where is this written?

Who is supposed to rejoice and why?

(Galatians 4:28) Now we, brethren, as Isaac was, are the children of promise.

Who are Paul and the Galatians in this allegory?

(Galatians 4:29) But as then he that was born after the flesh persecuted him that was born after the Spirit, even so it is now.

What did the one born after the flesh do?

How does that relate to what was happening in Paul's time?

(Galatians 4:30) Nevertheless what saith the scripture? Cast out the bondwoman and her son: for the son of the bondwoman shall not be heir with the son of the freewoman.

Who was cast out? Why?

(Galatians 4:31) So then, brethren, we are not children of the bondwoman, but of the free.

Who does Paul say the Galatian Christians are?

Why does that matter?

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(Galatians 5:1) Stand fast therefore in the liberty wherewith Christ hath made us free, and be not entangled again with the yoke of bondage.

How does Paul want the Galatians to stand?

What does Paul say they should stand in?

What does Paul not want them to do?

What has Christ done for us?

Have you ever been tempted to go back into bondage?

Have you ever been discouraged and tired from standing?

(Galatians 5:2) Behold, I Paul say unto you, that if ye be circumcised, Christ shall profit you nothing.

What did Paul say would cause Christ to be of no profit to them?

Does Paul mean that circumcision is a sin?

Does Paul mean someone who is circumcised can't be a Christian?

(Galatians 5:3) For I testify again to every man that is circumcised, that he is a debtor to do the whole law.

Why does Paul specify every "man" and not mention women?

What does Paul say a man who is circumcised is a debtor to do?

What law is Paul talking about?

If a doctor told a man that he needed to be circumcised for medical reasons would that man be a

debtor like Paul is speaking of here?

Would this same principle apply to other commands from the law of Moses?

Was circumcision new under the law of Moses or from before the law of Moses?

(Galatians 5:4) Christ is become of no effect unto you, whosoever of you are justified by the law; ye are fallen from grace.

What does Paul say causes Christ to become of no effect?

What did Paul say back in 3:11 about being justified by the law?

From what have those who try to be justified by the law fallen?

Does Paul mean that there are no commands for us to follow under grace?

(Galatians 5:5) For we through the Spirit wait for the hope of righteousness by faith.

Through what are we waiting?

For what are we waiting?

How does righteousness come?

Does Paul mean we don't have hope now?

(Galatians 5:6) For in Jesus Christ neither circumcision availeth any thing, nor uncircumcision; but faith which worketh by love.

Is it better to be circumcised or uncircumcised?

Which one will make you closer to God?

What does Paul say helps you be a better Christian?

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(Galatians 5:7) Ye did run well; who did hinder you that ye should not obey the truth?

How had the Galatians been running in the past?

Had they obeyed the truth to become Christians?

Why had they stopped obeying the truth?

Who hindered them?

(Galatians 5:8) This persuasion cometh not of him that calleth you.

What was not the source of the persuasion or influence to stop obeying the truth?

What was the source of the persuasion or influence to stop obeying the truth?

(Galatians 5:9) A little leaven leaveneth the whole lump.

What is leaven?

Is Paul saying this is something good or bad?

How much yeast do you need to make a loaf of bread out of a lump of dough?

(Galatians 5:10) I have confidence in you through the Lord, that ye will be none otherwise minded: but he that troubleth you shall bear his judgment, whosoever he be.

Did Paul think they would do right?

What was Paul confident that they would be?

What did Paul say would happen to the one that had troubled them?

Did Paul name the person who was causing the trouble?

Was Paul afraid to call people out by name when they were troublemakers?

Why do you think Paul doesn't say who the troublemaker was?

(Galatians 5:11) And I, brethren, if I yet preach circumcision, why do I yet suffer persecution? then is the offence of the cross ceased.

Was Paul still preaching circumcision?

What group was the main one that persecuted Paul?

What group would have not persecuted him if he was preaching circumcision?

What was the offence of the cross?

What would have caused the offence of the cross to end?

(Galatians 5:12) I would they were even cut off which trouble you.

What did Paul wish for those who troubled the Galatians about circumcision?

What does the phrase "cut off" refer to?

Do you think Paul is being mean?

(Galatians 5:13) For, brethren, ye have been called unto liberty; only use not liberty for an occasion to the flesh, but by love serve one another.

Why does Paul say brethren and not mention women?

What were we and the Galatians called to?

How can liberty or freedom be misused?

How are we to serve each other?

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(Galatians 5:14) For all the law is fulfilled in one word, even in this; Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself.

What law do you think Paul is referring to here?

Where else in the Bible is the idea of loving your neighbor as yourself taught?

How can love fulfill a law?

(Galatians 5:15) But if ye bite and devour one another, take heed that ye be not consumed one of another.

What does Paul describe as being the opposite of love?

What may result from this cannibalistic activity?

What does Paul mean by 'take heed'?

(Galatians 5:16) This I say then, Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfil the lust of the flesh.

How should we walk?

What should we not fulfil?

Will the person doing what Paul commands in this verse bite and devour others?

(Galatians 5:17) For the flesh lusteth against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh: and these are contrary the one to the other: so that ye cannot do the things that ye would.

What two things are fighting against each other?

What is the result of this ongoing battle?

Which one will win?

(Galatians 5:18) But if ye be led of the Spirit, ye are not under the law.

Which people are not under the law?

What law is he talking about here?

Was this something miraculous for only the first century?

Does this mean they are not under any law?

(Galatians 5:19) Now the works of the flesh are manifest, which are these; Adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lasciviousness,

What does Paul say are manifest?

What does manifest mean?

How many things are listed verses 19-21?

What is uncleanness?

What is lasciviousness?

(Galatians 5:20) Idolatry, witchcraft, hatred, variance, emulations, wrath, strife, seditions, heresies,

What is variance?

What are emulations?

What are seditions?

What are heresies?

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(Galatians 5:21) Envyings, murders, drunkenness, revellings, and such like: of the which I tell you before, as I have also told you in time past, that they which do such things shall not inherit the kingdom of God.

What are revellings?

Do you think there is any significance to the order of the list?

Why do you think Paul added 'and such like' to the list?

Which of the things listed do you think is the worst? Why?

How many times had Paul warned them about these sinful things?

What did Paul say about people who do these things?

Which of these is the biggest struggle for you?

(Galatians 5:22) But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith,

How many good things are listed in verses 22-23?

What is the source of these things?

What is longsuffering?

(Galatians 5:23) Meekness, temperance: against such there is no law.

What is meekness?

What is temperance?

What is against these things?

Do you think there is any significance to the order of the list?

Which of these do you have the most difficulty cultivating in your life?

(Galatians 5:24) And they that are Christ's have crucified the flesh with the affections and lusts.

What has been crucified in this verse?

What two things went with it?

Who crucified it?

Can one of these people still be working the works of the flesh listed in verses 19-21?

(Galatians 5:25) If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit.

What two things should we do in the Spirit?

What is the difference in these two things?

(Galatians 5:26) Let us not be desirous of vain glory, provoking one another, envying one another.

What should we not desire?

What 2 other sinful things result from the desire Paul condemns in this verse?

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(Galatians 6:1) Brethren, if a man be overtaken in a fault, ye which are spiritual, restore such an one in the spirit of meekness; considering thyself, lest thou also be tempted.

To whom does Paul remind us he is writing with the first word of this verse?

What problem is he addressing in this verse?

What are the spiritual ones supposed to do?

How are they to do it?

Who should they consider?

Why should they consider?

(Galatians 6:2) Bear ye one another's burdens, and so fulfil the law of Christ.

What are they to bear?

What will they do as a result of bearing the right things?

Does this mean we should carry everything for someone else?

(Galatians 6:3) For if a man think himself to be something, when he is nothing, he deceiveth himself.

How does Paul say someone may deceive himself?

Why do you think Paul brought this up at this point?

(Galatians 6:4) But let every man prove his own work, and then shall he have rejoicing in himself alone, and not in another.

How can we avoid deceiving ourselves?

Why do you think Paul indicates that it is good to have rejoicing in yourself alone?

Does Paul mean that we should be loners who "don't need anybody"?

(Galatians 6:5) For every man shall bear his own burden.

What should everyone bear according to this verse?

How does this fit with verse 2?

Does this verse mean that we should never ask for help from others?

Does this mean we should not accept help?

Does this mean we should not help others?

(Galatians 6:6) Let him that is taught in the word communicate unto him that teacheth in all good things.

What kind of teaching is Paul talking about specifically?

What does the word 'communicate' mean?

What does Paul say the one taught should do for the one who teaches him?

(Galatians 6:7) Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap.

What danger does Paul warn them about in this verse?

What will God not allow to happen to Him?

What natural law does Paul point to in this verse?

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(Galatians 6:8) For he that soweth to his flesh shall of the flesh reap corruption; but he that soweth to the Spirit shall of the Spirit reap life everlasting.

How does Paul take the natural law from the last verse and apply it to the spiritual realm?

(Galatians 6:9) And let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not.

What danger does Paul warn about in this verse?

When will we reap?

What could keep us from reaping?

What does this verse teach about the doctrine of 'once saved always saved'?

(Galatians 6:10) As we have therefore opportunity, let us do good unto all men, especially unto them who are of the household of faith.

What two things are necessary for something to be an opportunity?

To whom should we do good?

If there are two people that I could do good to and one is a Christian and the other is not and I can only help one, which one does Paul say I should help?

How do we know if what we are doing is good?

(Galatians 6:11) Ye see how large a letter I have written unto you with mine own hand.

What did Paul say they could see?

Who was the penman who wrote this letter to the Galatians?

Why was the size of this letter significant?

What might have made writing a long letter difficult?

(Galatians 6:12) As many as desire to make a fair shew in the flesh, they constrain you to be circumcised; only lest they should suffer persecution for the cross of Christ.

What do those who want the Galatians circumcised desire?

What suffering are they trying to avoid?

Is circumcision sowing to the flesh or the spirit?

(Galatians 6:13) For neither they themselves who are circumcised keep the law; but desire to have you circumcised, that they may glory in your flesh.

What do those who are circumcised not do?

Why does Paul say they want the Galatians to be circumcised?

(Galatians 6:14) But God forbid that I should glory, save in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, by whom the world is crucified unto me, and I unto the world.

Does God want us to glory in the flesh?

What does Paul say is the only thing God wants us to glory in?

What does Paul say Jesus did to the relationship between him and the world?

How has Jesus affected your relationship with the world?

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(Galatians 6:15) For in Christ Jesus neither circumcision availeth any thing, nor uncircumcision, but a new creature.

Since Paul has talked so negatively about circumcision, should we think that being

uncircumcised is what makes us right with God?

What really makes a difference to God?

(Galatians 6:16) And as many as walk according to this rule, peace be on them, and mercy, and upon the Israel of God.

What rule is Paul talking about?

What two things did Paul call for those that walk by the rule to receive?

What group does Paul mention?

Who is this group?

(Galatians 6:17) From henceforth let no man trouble me: for I bear in my body the marks of the Lord Jesus.

What did Paul say no one should do to him?

Why did he say they should not do it?

What marks do you think Paul is speaking of?

(Galatians 6:18) Brethren, the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit. Amen.

To whom does Paul remind us he is writing?

What blessing does he ask for them to have?

Why do you think there are no greetings as with Paul's other letters?

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