The real message of the Gospel is at stake in Paul’s writing to the churches in Galatia. He is wrestling with his listeners on their approach to life with God. Here is strong statement about how we approach life and what we think about the good news is important. He begins to reflect on his calling and the radical nature of the gospel to the Gentiles.
(Galatians 1:10)
Sermon Outline
Am I now trying to win the approval of human beings, or of God? Or am I trying to please people? If I were still trying to please people, I would not be a servant of Christ. (Galatians 1:10)
The only message that brings freedom is from Jesus.
Historical Significance (Galatians 1:1-5)
- Writer
- The Audience
- The Impact of God’s Word
Paul Astonished (Galatians 1:6-10)
- Deserting Grace
- Accepting Different Gospel
- Confusion about Jesus
The Only Message (Galatians 1:11-24)
- Origin
- Changes Lives
- Brings Purpose (Galatians 1:10)
Discussion Questions
- This weekend at Eastbrook, we begin a new series, “Free: A Study on Galatians.” Ask God to speak to you before reading Galatians 1 aloud.
- When you think of the word free, what comes to your mind?
- The Protestant Reformation began in 1517, with Martin Luther’s writing of The Ninety-Five Theses. Martin Luther’s works, thoughts, and ideas were born out of writing a commentary on the book of Galatians. For Martin Luther, the grace and freedom of Jesus came alive through the words in the book. Do you feel like the word of God is still alive and powerful 500 years later?
- Read verses 6-10. Paul is astonished—in a negative manner. What is it that astonished him?
- The people in the churches of Galatia moved to a legalistic doctrine. How can legalism—a reliance on rules and traditions—negatively influence the way people live? How can this become evident in the church of today?
- There was false teaching in the 1st Century AD and there will be false teaching in 2015.
- How does Paul make known his passionate stance on this? What can we do as individuals and as a community to make certain we do not fall prey to false doctrine/ theology?
- Read verses 11-24. What is the origin of the gospel, the only message that brings freedom?
- Paul uses his own story as a testimony of the power of the gospel. Can you give a one sentence summary of Paul’s changed life? If you had to do the same with your own life, what would give as a one sentence statement?
- Paul has a new purpose that is found in verse 10. Is this the purpose in your life? Are you living to please people, yourself, or Jesus?