Bible Pathways - Dec. 1, 2010
Read Galatians 1
Highlights:
The greatest news in history — there is only one Gospel that calls us into the grace of Christ (Gal. 1:6-9)! The Lord sent Peter to Jews, Paul to Gentiles (2:8). We are not justified by the works of the Law. But did you know justification is by faith in Jesus Christ, that we might live unto God (2:16-21; Matt. 5:16; John 6:36)? Christ liveth in me (Gal. 2:19-20).
This letter, inspired by God, reveals among other important truths, two fundamental facts: (1) 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 (Gal. 1:8); and (2) there is but one way, for Jews and Gentiles, to be assured of eternal life. We can only be justified (declared righteous) by the faith of Christ, and not by the works of the Law: for by the works of the Law shall no flesh (no one) be justified (2:16). There is none righteous, no, not one . . . For all have sinned. . . . to Israel He saith, All day long I have stretched forth My hands unto a disobedient and gainsaying people (Rom. 3:10,23; 10:21). Our Lord Jesus Christ . . . gave Himself for our sins, that He might deliver us from this present evil world, according to the will of God (Gal. 1:3-4).
The full meaning of the grace of God was revealed when God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life (John 3:16). Jesus, the only begotten (sinless) Son of God, took our place and died on the cross that we might be delivered from our sins. Without His death for our sins, no one can be righteous. But because of His loving-kindness (grace) toward us, we can be born again (3:5) and become the sons of God (1:12), soon to enter heaven to be with Him.
Because of our sinful nature, no one has the ability to keep all of the Law of God (James 2:10). Christ hath redeemed us from the curse (the righteous penalty of death) of the Law, being made a curse (undergoing death on the cross, the appointed penalty of the curse) for us (Gal. 3:13). These facts should make us recognize our great need of a Savior.
As sons and daughters of faith, we are led and empowered by the indwelling Holy Spirit to be the children of God by faith in Christ Jesus. For as many of you as have been baptized into Christ have put on Christ. . . . And if ye be Christ's, then are ye Abraham's seed, and heirs according to the promise (Gal. 3:26-29)
Thought for Today:
Christ will soon return to rule the world as King of kings: To whom be glory for ever and ever (Gal. 1:5).
Cross References:
For Gal. 3:6: See Gen. 15:6. Gal. 3:8: See Gen. 12: 3; 22:18. Gal. 3:10: See Deut. 27:26. Gal. 3:11: See Hab. 2:4. Gal. 3:12: See Lev. 18:5. Gal. 3:13: See Deut. 21:23.
Word Studies:
1:13 conversation daily behavior, attitude of life; 2:13 dissimulation insincerity, hypocrisy, and pretense.
Prayer Needs:
Pray for our Military Worldwide • International Broadcasts sponsored by Mary Hoffmeyer • Staff: Dr. John A. Hash • Government Official: Rep. Gary Peters (MI) • Country: Laos (5 million) in Southeast Asia • Major languages: Lao and French • Great suppression of all Christian activities • 58% Buddhist; 33% belief in spirits and ancestor worship; 2% Christian; 1% Muslim • Prayer Suggestion: Pray with a heart of righteousness, keeping the truth of God, and know He will hear your prayers (Is. 26:2).
Memory Verse for the Week: Romans 8:28
