Four Lessons About the Gospel Galatians 1 & 2
Introduction and Context Word “gospel” used 10 times in Chap. 1 & 2 These chapters discuss the digression of the Galatians – trading the Gospel of Christ for the Old Law Four Lessons found in Chapters 1 & 2 about the gospel, in each of them, Paul discusses: –The reality (truth or facts) about the gospel –The rule concerning the gospel –The results (both good & bad) toward the gospel
Four Lessons about the Gospel 1.A Singular Gospel (1:6-10) Reality: Only one legitimate gospel (6-9) Rule: No other gospel to be preached! (6-9) Results: drifting; perversion; curse; pleasing men rather than God (6-10)
Four Lessons about the Gospel 1.A Singular Gospel (1:6-10) Reality: Only one legitimate gospel (6-9) Rule: No other gospel to be preached! (6-9) Results: drifting; perversion; curse; pleasing men rather than God (6-10) 2.A Divine Gospel (1:11-24) Reality: Came through Christ not man (11-12) Rule: Jesus’ Gospel to be preached, not man’s gospel (13-16) Results: No need to consult men (16-22); God is glorified (24)
Four Lessons about the Gospel 3.A United Gospel (2:1-10) Reality: Benefits & demands same for both Jew & Greek (1-3) Rule: To be defended against those who would alter its benefits or demands (4-6) Results: fellowship; unity of work (7-10)
Four Lessons about the Gospel 3.A United Gospel (2:1-10) Reality: Benefits & demands same for both Jew & Greek (1-3) Rule: To be defended against those who would alter its benefits or demands (4-6) Results: fellowship; unity of work (7-10) 4.A Life-Regulating Gospel (2:11-21) Reality: What is preached to others must be practiced by self (14) Rule: Unlawful behavior to be resisted (11) Results: Hypocrisy & evil influence (12-13); condemnation (11)
Conclusion Are you preaching the one gospel of Jesus Christ? Is the life you are living in keeping with that gospel you preach?