Galatians (Sunergos Inductive Bible Study)

Galatians and

The Fruit of the Spirit An Inductive Bible Study

Sunergos Bible Studies Jan Wells

Copyright  2002, 2003 by Jan Wells Galatians and the Fruit of the Spirit - An Inductive Bible Study by Jan Wells Printed in the United States of America Library of Congress Control Number: 2003102358 ISBN 1-591606-30-6 All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means – electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording, or otherwise – without the prior written permission of the publisher and copyright owners. Acknowledgments Unless otherwise indicated or if marked (ISV) scripture quotations are taken from: The Holy Bible: International Standard Version®, ISV®. Copyright © 1996-2003 by The ISV Foundation of Yorba Linda, CA. Used by permission of Davidson Press, Inc. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED UNDER INTERNATIONAL AND PAN-AMERICAN COPYRIGHT CONVENTIONS. Scripture quotations marked (NASB) are taken from The New American Standard Bible®, NASB® Copyright © 1960, 1962, 1963, 1968, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1975, 1977, 1995 by The Lockman Foundation. Used by permission. (www.Lockman.org) Scripture quotations marked (NIV) are taken from the HOLY BIBLE, NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION®. NIV®. Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984 by International Bible Society. Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved. Scripture quotations marked (KJV) are taken from the HOLY BIBLE, KING JAMES ®VERSION. KJV is public domain and permissions for use are not necessary.

Word studies are taken from Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance of the Bible as well as other reference sources. The Hebrew and Greek words given in the left column of the word study are the lexical form of the word, followed by actual word found in an Interlinear Bible. When sources other than the Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance are used in the center column of the word study they are in italic print. A complete list of the references used for this study is found in the Bibliography. Cover Photo showing the remains of Roman aqueduct that brought water from the mountains near Pisidian Antioch, Galatia courtesy of William Fretwell. Woodcut illustrations by Julius Schnoor von Carolsfeld were originally printed in “Das Buch der Bücher in Bilden.” They were scanned by Publications for Latin America, WELS. [email protected]

Sunergos Bible Studies 2485 Morse Road Sebastopol, CA 95472 707 829 2956 To order additional copies, www.SunergosBible.org 1/15/2008

Table of Contents Page Lesson 1 – Galatians Overview and Introduction to the Fruit of the Spirit .............................5 Lesson 2 – Galatians 1, Galatians 2, and Love.....................................................................15 Lesson 3 – Galatians 1, Galatians 2, and Joy .......................................................................25 Lesson 4 – Galatians 3:1-18 and Peace................................................................................37 Lesson 5 – Galatians 3:19-29 and Patience ..........................................................................51 Lesson 6 – Galatians 4:1-20 and Kindness...........................................................................63 Lesson 7 – Galatians 4:21-31 and Goodness........................................................................73 Lesson 8 – Galatians 5:1-21 and Faithfulness ......................................................................83 Lesson 9 – Galatians 5:22-26, Galatians 6:1-5, and Gentleness............................................97 Lesson 10 – Galatians 6:6-18, Galatians Review, and Self-control .................................... 111 Appendix .......................................................................................................................... 125 Scripture Worksheets ........................................................................................................ 127 Inductive Study Methodology ........................................................................................... 147 Theme and Title Chart....................................................................................................... 153 The Holy Spirit ................................................................................................................. 155 Map .................................................................................................................................. 157 In the Fullness of Time...................................................................................................... 159 The Nicene Creed ............................................................................................................. 161 The Apostles' Creed .......................................................................................................... 161 Compulsive Behavior........................................................................................................ 163 Twelve Steps of Wholeness............................................................................................... 165 Word Study Index ............................................................................................................. 167 Bibliography ..................................................................................................................... 169 Sunergos Bible Studies...................................................................................................... 170 Book Summary ................................................................................................................. 171 Author Profile ................................................................................................................... 171

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I have written this Bible study that it might strengthen and encourage believers who are fellow workers, translated from the word sunergos in the New Testament Greek. We are to glorify God in all that we do, and diligent study of His word will equip us to carry out God’s plan in our life and in His church so that we might truly enjoy Him forever. In His Love,

Jan Jan Wells, M.A. Sebastopol, CA 95472 707.829.2956 email: [email protected] www.sunergosbible.org And we sent Timothy, our brother and God’s fellow worker (sunergo) in the gospel of Christ, to strengthen and encourage you as to your faith. 1 Thessalonians 3:2

I have found that there are some prayers that I can voice that God will always answer. One is asking God to increase my desire to spend time with Him, asking Him that my spirit would long to commune with Him in the pages of His word. If you surrender your feeling of “you have to” study God’s word, and instead ask God to help “you want to” spend time with Him, you will be delighted and amazed at the difference in your attitude toward the spiritual discipline of Bible study. Soli Deo Gloria (to God alone be the glory)!

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Lesson 1

Lesson 1 – Galatians Overview and Introduction to the Fruit of the Spirit Introduction This inductive study of the New Testament book of Galatians will challenge you to examine your own faith and commitment to the Lord. The study will investigate the timeless truths of Galatians that have brought conviction and inspiration to people of all ages. The lessons will seek to equip you to be stronger and more mature in your walk with the Lord. The lessons also include a study of the fruit of the Spirit as the focus of Day 5 each week. Dr. M. Robert Mulholland wrote a very simple definition to describe the phrase spiritual formation, when the Christian is “in the process of being conformed to the image of Christ for the sake of others.” Would you be willing to make that a goal for yourself as you study the book of Galatians? Please consider allowing God’s word to lead and equip you in this way. To make the book of Galatians come to life, this inductive study will use the Bible as the primary source of information. The inductive method, explained in the Appendix, includes four steps. First you will be asked questions to help you carefully observe the text as you “read with a purpose.” The next step involves careful and accurate interpretation of the Scriptures being studied, that you might determine eternal principles from the text, and then apply these Scriptures to the circumstances of your life. How important it is to “be diligent” and “handle accurately the words of truth.” It is essential that you believe that “all Scripture is inspired by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, for training in righteousness,” as the apostle Paul declared in 2 Timothy 3:16. The lessons of this study will challenge you to recognize God’s eternal perspective from the book of Galatians. You are promised that the Holy Spirit will help you understand the word of God. All believers have the same indwelling Holy Spirit that has been promised to guide them in God’s truth. When you feel frustrated or hear a voice telling you, “You cannot do this study,” recognize that that thought is not coming from God. Any follower of Christ can allow their flesh to defeat them. All Christians must recognize that Satan tries to keep believers from spending time with the Lord, from studying God’s word, and from making God’s truth a part of each decision they make.

Remember to stand firm, persevere, and ask for God’s help. You will be blessed as you press on! As you move through the study, you will be challenged to make a commitment to the spiritual discipline of Scripture memorization! You must not give up, thinking that this is too difficult, because it is possible for all believers to treasure God’s word in their heart and mind in this way. You can trust that God will use His holy word to minister to your spirit. You can also count on the fact that Scripture memorization will equip you to share your faith with others.

Day 1 1. Any time you approach the holy word of God, please establish the habit of opening your time in prayer. Humbly come before the Lord God Almighty asking Him to use His word to bring you to a deeper understanding of who He is and to help you see what He has 5

Lesson 1 done for you. Ask God to draw you closer to Him and help you follow after His will as He leads. You will be reminded of this each day. The lesson will always begin with observation questions that will observe the theme and/or the verses to be covered in the day’s lesson. One way to approach the study would be to answer the observation questions that are introduced with a bold dot in question 1, and then move to the last question (or questions) of the day that will be in a simple rectangular box. (This has been designed to take between twelve and twenty minutes.) Another option for the study is to complete some or all of the remaining questions in between question 1 and the questions in the rectangular box, which might take from thirty minutes to one hour in total. This format allows some flexibility within the commitment of “completing” the study, however, the Overview lesson always takes longer than the rest of the Lessons. • Go to the Scripture Worksheets that are located in the Appendix. These are the text of Galatians, double-spaced, with no marginal notes, no introductory helps, no chapter headings, no footnotes, no paragraph titles, and no other helps as you might find in other Bibles. Begin by reading through the book of Galatians, without stopping or looking for anything in particular, just read through the entire book. After you have completed each chapter, glance back at the chapter and write down your first impressions of the chapter. Remember, before you read: open in prayer. Chapter 1

Chapter 2

Chapter 3

Chapter 4

Chapter 5

Chapter 6

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Lesson 1 2. You have just read the book of Galatians and recorded your first impressions. At this point in the study, you might have some questions about what you read. You will be studying the book in the next ten weeks, so await with expectation concerning what God will teach you through His Holy Spirit. God longs for you to spend time with Him in His holy word. For now, jot down your goals for studying the book of Galatians.

Spend a time of prayer with the Lord concerning your commitment to be in His word, to study the New Testament book of Galatians.

Day 2 1. An important step in the overview process is to look at the one who wrote the book being studied. The Holy Spirit inspired the writing of all Scripture, and God directed men to record truths so that He might be made known to all mankind. Open in prayer and then read through the book of Galatians, this time taking a colored pen or pencil and marking, perhaps with a circle or rectangle, each time the author identified himself. The author might describe himself by name or by using pronouns like I or me, or perhaps with the plural pronouns, us or we. Inductive study includes answering the “5 Ws and an H” questions, given on page 147 in the Appendix, to help you see truth and learn the purpose of the book you are studying. Begin this look into the author by answering the following question: • How is the author identified?

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Because the book of Galatians contains information about the author that is not found anywhere else in the New Testament, Lesson 2 will include an in-depth study of the author and his spiritual journey. For now you might simply record any thoughts that you have discovered from the text that have helped you understand the author’s character.

2. Who received the book of Galatians? Read through the book of Galatians again and mark references to the recipients with a different symbol or colored line so that you can see these references at a glance. After marking, think about what you’ve learned about the recipients. Remember in observing the text you can answer with the “5 Ws and an H” questions. Who were the recipients?

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Lesson 1 The recipients of the book will be studied later, but as you are in the observation process, would you please list five simple truths about the recipients.

3. What other individuals are mentioned in the book of Galatians? References to these other individuals can be marked with a different colored marking.

4. Part of this study of Galatians will include a time of quiet reflection at the end of each day’s lesson where you will be encouraged to focus on the Lord and quiet your heart before Him. You might read a passage of Scripture that was read today and then pray through that passage. As you “pray through the Scripture” personalize the verses. One way to do that would be to read the verses and if it is a message clearly directed to someone, you could insert your name into the passage. Another way would be to read the verse and then turn the verse into a prayer of praise or thanksgiving, or a prayer of confession or supplication. Take the words of Scripture that you have read and use these very words to express adoration and praise to God for that truth. Perhaps your prayer would be a simple prayer of thanksgiving to God for His provision as revealed in the passage, and for the relationship you have with Him. Maybe the verse should be a prayer of confession for an area of your life where you have not been obedient to the Lord, and you need to agree with Him concerning what He has revealed to you that needs attention. Perhaps the prayer will involve turning the Scripture into a prayer of supplication where you ask God for help for yourself and for others who have a need relating to the verse’s theme. For the first week of this course, before you begin to look at the text one paragraph at a time, select a portion of the book that ministered to your spirit, and pray through those verses. Ask God how this truth can become a reality in your life today. Maybe a doctrinal truth would encourage your faith and you could commit that truth to memory. Maybe the passage for you to focus on today is a challenge that has come to your heart that you need to apply in your life. Ask God what He would have you spend time praying about and then quiet yourself before Him.

Day 3 1. Begin today’s time in the word by praying to God for the help you will need to understand what it is He would have you gain from studying His word. As you read through the book of Galatians, record below any clues that give you information concerning the 8

Lesson 1 cultural, geographical, historical, and religious background that is either mentioned specifically or alluded to in Galatians as part of the observation process. After you have jotted down evidence of these references, consider the “attitude” expressed by the author in the book in the last question that refers to the general tone or atmosphere of the book. • What cultural references are made in Galatians?

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What references to geographical locations are made in Galatians?

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Aside from the details given about Paul’s life, what references to historical information are made in Galatians?

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What references are made to religions other than Christianity in the book of Galatians?

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What is the general tone or atmosphere of the book of Galatians?

2. After reading through a book of the Bible, it is possible to know the type of literature or the genre of the book. Read through these brief descriptions and circle the word that describes the genre of the book of Galatians. Some biblical books represent several genres. Epistle – a letter written either to an individual or to a group of individuals Narrative – a written record of a historical event or a series of events Poetry – the poetry of the Ancient Near East rhymed in image, not in words Prophecy – a record of what is to come, often with events in the near future as well as in the distant future Wisdom Literature – nuggets of truth to exhort with practical insight into life choices

3. Imagine yourself as a part of one of the churches of Galatia who was listening to this letter being read during a church service in the first century! How would the “hearing” of this letter make you feel? Close by telling the Lord God how the book of Galatians is speaking to you. 9

Lesson 1

Day 4 – Key Words 1. You have read through the book of Galatians many times this week. Do not lose heart concerning this task! The overview lesson always requires extra time and energy, and you might feel discouraged. Ask God to increase your determination and your desire to be in His word. God will give you a desire to persevere and continue with the study. Today you will look at three of the key words in Galatians. Generally in an inductive study you would look for all of the key words that are repeated and essential in the text. When the key words are removed, they leave the text without clear meaning. Key words are essential to the text, because they reveal the message of the text, and form the basis for studying specific doctrinal truths. Keep in mind that key words reveal the subject of a passage, and these subjects then reveal the themes of the text, to help you see why the book was written. For this part of the lesson, you will only look for Paul’s use of the words God, Jesus Christ, and the Holy Spirit. • When an author of any Scripture mentions God, Jesus Christ, and the Holy Spirit, as well as any words representing these words, these are always considered key words. Mark these key words in a consistent way. I mark any reference to God with a red triangle through the word. Using the same red pencil, I place a symbol of a cross through each reference to Jesus. When the word Lord is used I place a small red crown over the word. I designate any references to the Holy Spirit with a wiggly red “cloud” surrounding the word. In addition to marking the words God, Jesus Christ, and the Holy Spirit, also look for the words that were used to represent these three. You might find the words Creator, Savior, or the Comforter as designations for God, Jesus Christ, and the Holy Spirit. Mark these words in the same way you marked the words God, Jesus Christ, and the Holy Spirit. Also take the time to distinguish between the pronouns that were used to represent God, Jesus Christ, and the Holy Spirit. In the English language, when a sentence declares something about God followed by information about Christ Jesus, and the word He, Him, or His follows, it would be a reference to Christ who was mentioned secondly, and rather than a reference to the Father God. When you mark the text in this way it will help you differentiate truths about God, Christ, and the Holy Spirit. This part of the lesson will take some time, please do not just mark the words, but as you do the marking, think about what is being declared about God, Jesus Christ, and the Holy Spirit in the book of Galatians. Let these truths provide nourishment to your spirit and bring courage to your heart. 2. After you have marked these three key words, jot down some truths that ministered to your spirit. God Jesus Christ The Holy Spirit

There is more space on the next page. 10

Lesson 1 God

Jesus Christ

The Holy Spirit

Close by praying for these truths to penetrate your spirit and make a difference in your response to the challenges and problems that come into your life this next week.

Day 5 – Introduction to the Fruit of the Spirit 1. Every week the fifth day will focus on the theme of the fruit of the Spirit. Please open your time in the word by praying for God’s will to be revealed to you as you study today. Please begin with these observation questions. • Galatians 5:22,23 are written as declarative statements, as the author is simply stating these truths for the recipients. Please read Galatians 5:22,23 and write out these two verses. You are going to be challenged to memorize these verses, and when memorizing a long list of words, it is easier to group them in some way. When you write out the verses, it will help you to list the nine fruit of the Spirit in three groups of three, and begin to memorize these words within their group. Notice the first group of three are each one syllable in length, the second group are two syllables long, and the third group are three syllables long!

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The author has given two instructions in Galatians 5:22-26. Please write what he has commanded of his audience here.

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Lesson 1 2. Nearly every day the lesson will study some of the specific words that were used in the Scripture to clarify your understanding of the meaning of these words used by the author. In order to save you the time of having to look up these words in reference books, the word studies will appear on a chart like the one below. Many books are available to help with word studies. Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance is an excellent resource for looking at both the Old Testament Hebrew words and the New Testament Greek words. The definition column in the middle might also give the word as it is translated in other versions of the Bible. When another source is used in the definition column this is given in italics. A complete list of the references used for this study is found in the Bibliography. In the first column you will find the Strong’s number and the lexical form of the word, the word before it is changed grammatically to fit its context. The second row will show the actual word used based on the grammatical use of the word. Sometimes these two words will be the same, and sometimes they are different. The third line has the biblical reference of the word from the lesson. Included in the third column will be some cross-references that will show you how the word was used in another passage of Scripture in a similar way. Words can have more than one meaning, and they can be defined by looking at their context. You might briefly summarize what you learn about the word from the cross-reference(s) given, or just choose to read the verse. Strong’s # and Transliteration:

Definition from Strong’s, Concordance unless written in italics:

Use of the word in other Scriptures:

2590 karpos karpos Galatians 5:22

Fruit, as plucked. The literal meaning occurs in the Bible as well as the figurative meaning.

James 3:18

4151 pneuma pneumatos Galatians 5:22

Spirit, a current of air, i.e. breath (blast) or a breeze, analytically or figuratively, a spirit, i.e. (human) the rational soul, (by implication) vital principle, mental disposition, or (superhuman) an angel, demon, or (divine) God, Christ’s spirit, the Holy Spirit, ghost, life, spirit (ual, ually), mind

1 Corinthians 2:12,13

3. Now please read Galatians 5:24-26 noticing the pronouns used in these verses that follow the teaching about the fruit of the Spirit. Earlier this week you looked at the book of Galatians to determine to whom this book was written. You were asked to mark the pronouns that revealed information about the recipients. If you have not already done so, please mark these words in some way. Now please read Galatians 5:22-26 again and meditate on what was written. Galatians 5:25 is an example of a conditional statement, usually introduced with the word “if.” Write out the condition given to the recipients in Galatians 5:25.

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Lesson 1 4. As you move through this study you will look at other Scriptures that will help you understand what Paul meant by the phrase the fruit of the Spirit. Please read what Paul wrote to the people in the church of Ephesus concerning fruit. The actual reference is in Ephesians 5:9, but please take the time to read this in its context, going back to at least Ephesians 5:6. Careful biblical interpretation requires you to not isolate a verse, taking it out of context, but to read the verse within its paragraph. Please read Ephesians 5:6-13 and note what Paul contrasted here, as well as what Paul taught about fruit.

5. In the next several weeks, you are going to study how you can make known the fruit of the Spirit in your life. Motivational speakers say “You have a challenge in your life? You can meet that challenge! You can change!” The truth is that on your own you cannot change. To live out the fruit of the Spirit you must surrender your will to the Lord God Almighty, because through the Holy Spirit you can walk as the Lord would have you walk. Those who follow Christ Jesus are enabled to stand firm in all circumstances. John Ortberg said that disciplined followers of Jesus can do “the right thing at the right time in the right way for the right reason.”1 Christians are empowered to honor and glorify God no matter the circumstances. What is necessary for a plant to bear fruit? A seed has an inner germ that can sprout when the outer surface dies in the proper circumstances and environment. Think beyond this simple truth and what this would mean to you if you were truly a fruit-bearing follower of Christ and then respond to how this concept of fruit bearing relates to your own life.

Here are two questions you might consider: 1. Briefly record a recent experience when you did the right thing at the right time in the right way for the right reason.

Continued on the next page.

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John Ortberg, The Life You’ve Always Wanted, Grand Rapids, Zondervan, 1997, p. 55. 13

Lesson 1 2. Briefly record a recent experience when your actions were not the right thing at the right time in the right way for the right reason. What got in the way of you doing the right thing at the right time in the right way for the right reason?

Most translations of the Bible capitalize the word spirit in the phrase fruit of the Spirit. Bible translators have interpreted the word spirit as being the Holy Spirit. In fact it is only possible to live and make known the fruit of the Spirit through the indwelling of the Holy Spirit. Part of each lesson will look at the nature of the Holy Spirit and His work so that you might learn from Him, and grow in your faith. Page 155 of the Appendix provides a sheet you can use to help you record information about the nature and role of the Holy Spirit. As you read about the Holy Spirit, please record this information, including the Scripture references, and allow these truths to minister to your spirit as God intended. Did you memorize a verse this week? I have a dear friend who always thought that she could not memorize Scripture and then realized that God could do this through her, and now memorizing Scripture is a part of her life! Participating in this spiritual discipline has encouraged her as well as those who know her! You will be blessed by this discipline. If you have made this commitment, you could write out Galatians 5:22,23 as one more reminder of God’s faithfulness that you will examine each week.

Please close by reading Paul’s prayer for the church in Colossae in Colossians 1:912. As you read this prayer, note how Paul used the word fruit in his prayer.

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Lesson 2

Lesson 2 – Galatians 1, Galatians 2, and Love Introduction This week’s lesson will focus on the Comprehensive Chapter Studies of Galatians 1 and 2, Paul and his ministry, the recipients of the book of Galatians, and the fruit of the Spirit, love. Remember to open each day of study with a prayer, asking for guidance that you may be able to claim the truth that God wants you to understand His word. You might consider claiming a verse of this week’s lesson to memory so that as you treasure this verse in your heart it might minister to you this week as well as in the future. If you are pressed for time during any of the weeks of this study, and know you will not be able to complete the day’s lesson, read the Scripture that is being studied for the week each day. Please do not give up on studying; you will be blessed as you continue.

Days 1 and 2 – Galatians 1 and 2, Comprehensive Chapter Studies 1. Every time you begin a new chapter you will spend time going through a process called the Comprehensive Chapter Study. Generally, the pattern for inductive study would be to observe a chapter and then study the chapter and determine the themes of the chapter before moving on to the next chapter. However, in the book of Galatians, there is a continuity of themes within Galatians 1 and 2, so that before going into the text of Galatians 1, you will also examine Galatians 2, and study them together. In the next two days you will observe the Scripture Worksheets for Galatians 1 and 2. Open in prayer asking for the Lord’s help and then read Galatians 1 and 2 paying attention to the key words that are repeated. You can refer to the Appendix pages 147, 149, and 151 for help with the inductive observation process. • You already looked for the ways that God, Christ, and the Holy Spirit were used in Galatians. Today you will look for the key words that are repeated throughout Galatians 1 and 2. When key words are removed they leave the text without clear meaning. Key words are essential to the text, because they reveal the message of the text, and form the basis for studying specific doctrinal truths. Key words also reveal the subjects in the passage, and these subjects then reveal the themes of the text. Mark the key words in a consistent way. For example, I always mark any reference to the gospel with a green box around each reference. Now is the time to list what is being taught concerning the key words of Galatians 1 and 2, by writing a list of what is being stated about the key word when the word was used. You can place these lists directly on the Scripture Worksheets in the right-hand margin under the heading of the key word, or place your lists on a separate sheet of paper. • Please list the key words from Galatians 1 and 2 here.

2. As you read Galatians 1 and 2, you can also look for contrasts and comparisons that were used. Refer to Appendix pages 149 and 151, and then write the contrasts and 15

Lesson 2 comparisons in the space provided, or mark your Scripture Worksheets in some way to show these. Contrasts (to show differences/opposites) Comparisons (to show similarities and connections, using the words as or like)

3. As you continue with the observation process, you will be looking for the purpose of the book of Galatians, an important part of inductive study. The purpose for a book is sometimes very clearly stated by the author, but not always. One way of understanding the purpose of the book is to look for the author’s teaching through the declarative statements, instructions, exhortations, warnings, and admonitions. My prayer is that this process will not become an academic exercise, but rather that even in this the word would speak to your heart in a meaningful way. At this point you will look for the declarative statements in Galatians 1 and 2. Some of the writing in the Bible includes declarative statements that consist of the straight forward teaching of doctrinal truths as well as historical narrative. These declarative statements are common in the New Testament. One example of declarative statements appears in the first five verses of Galatians 1, as they would be considered to be doctrinal truths to inform and equip the believer for the work of service. Some of Paul’s writing is historical narrative, retelling his perspective on his life. Since there are many of these declarative statements in Galatians, you might mark the number of the verse in some way, with a colored line or circle, or by putting the verse or paragraph in brackets, < >, to help differentiate these declarative statements from other verses. I write in the left hand margin the means the author used with lines dividing one from another. You will be learning about this as you move through the study of Galatians. Remember that this is to help you “see” the purpose for the book, so be patient. 16

Lesson 2 An example of a declarative statement is made following the questions asked in Galatians 1:10. This declarative statement teaches doctrinal truth, please write this sentence here.

4. Look for terms of expression that help you understand time, with words like “now, then, later,” etc. and mark these in a consistent way. Another means of understanding language is to examine the way verbs are used in writing. A simple explanation of verbs is that they are words that express action or the state of being, and they relate the words communicated within a framework of time. Verbs communicate that something is happening at the moment, or has happened in the past, or will happen in the future. (The verbs in the preceding sentence are in italics.) Verbs can also announce that an event has already taken place and the results of that event are continuing at the present time. Please take the time to read Galatians 1 and 2 looking for the different verb tenses that were used, noting in the left hand margin references to the future, the present, or the past. This can add another dimension to your study, not because you will be studying verbs, but this will help you see what God has done in the past, what He is doing in your life today, as well as show you what the future holds. 5. Mark words that express conclusion or show results or purpose with words like “for,” “for this reason,” “so that,” and “because.” Words that express conclusion are important to note because they show why the author wrote what he wrote and help you see the promises or consequences that will come. 6. Did you see a truth in Galatians 1 and 2 that the Lord wants you to focus upon? Was there a word that caused you to think about your own life and lifestyle? How has this portion of Scripture ministered to you today?

A Memorization Challenge! Please choose a verse from Galatians 1 and 2 and read the verse every day to help you remember the wording. Write out the verse, including the reference. Another helpful way to memorize would be to write the verse on a small piece of paper (a 3” x 5” card, or a small “Post-It”) and place it somewhere where you will see it often during the week, or carry it around with you. A couple of helpful hints from educational research: when you put the verse to music and sing the words, functions within the brain are integrated, which will help you remember the words! So choose a simple tune and sing your verse! When trying to memorize something say it over 3 to 5 times a day for 3 to 5 days. Memorizing Scripture is a unique discipline, because God will enable you to hold His precious and holy word within your spirit. It is worth the effort! Continued on the next page.

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Lesson 2 Now please close by praying through the verse you have chosen and make it very personal to yourself and where you are in your life today. My verse is Galatians 1:10 and I have prayed; “Father God I do not want to live by seeking the favor of men, but of You. Lord God, help me to set aside my need and desire to try to please men, that I may demonstrate to You my desire to continue as Your bond-servant. It is in the name of my Savior that I pray, knowing that You have given the Holy Spirit to help me. Amen.

Days 3 and 4 – The Apostle Paul and His Ministry 1. In the next two days you will look at Paul’s life and his ministry. The apostle Paul had been named Saul, a Hebrew name, and after his conversion his name was changed to Paul, as this was a common name in the Greco-Roman culture. The book of Galatians contains a (narrative) description of Paul’s life, but you will also look at other Scriptures to see what has been recorded elsewhere. Read the verses noted in Acts 9 and then go back to Galatians 1 and 2 and add any other information, perhaps using two different colors of ink, or somehow marking what information came from Acts and what was written in Galatians. While the goal is to help you understand Paul and his faith, stop to ask God to speak to you through this historical information, that you might be challenged and encouraged in your own faith. Now begin with these observation questions. • What does Acts 9:1,2 (and Galatians 1:13,14) say about Saul (Paul) before he met Jesus?

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How did the Lord get Saul’s attention as he was traveling to Damascus? List three facts that you would share with someone about Saul’s “meeting” from Acts 9:3-8.

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What did the Lord say about His plan for Saul’s (Paul’s) life in Acts 9:15,16?

•

Briefly record what happened to Saul (Paul) in Damascus and Jerusalem according to Acts 9, and then add what Paul recorded about himself in Galatians. In Damascus (Acts 9:17-25) In Jerusalem (Acts 9:26-31)

Lesson 2 •

According to Galatians 1:18 through Galatians 2:10 and Acts 9:23-31, please describe Paul’s relationship with the Jews, Cephas (Peter), James (the brother of Jesus), Barnabas, and the brethren (this was how the followers of Christ were identified). a. The Jews:

b. Cephas (pronounced Ksee-fus): c. James: d. Barnabas:

e. The brethren:

2

•

How did Paul describe James, Cephas (Peter), and John in Galatians 2:9,10 and how did these three men treat Paul?

•

What was the concern that Paul had with Cephas (Peter), according to Galatians 2:1121?

•

Many biblical scholars believe that Galatians was written at the same time as the book of Romans,2 and Galatians is thought to be Paul’s first epistle. Some say the book was written to the churches in the southern region of Galatia, as this region in the province of Galatia had a greater population than the northern region. Paul visited both the southern and the northern regions of Galatia on his missionary journeys. There were disciples “scattered” in the northern region of the Galatian province, however Christian churches were established in the southern region. The book of Galatians is the only one of Paul’s epistles written to a group of churches. Why did Paul return to Galatia according to Acts 15:36?

H.A. Ironside, Galatians, New York, Loizeaux Brothers Publishers, 1945, p. 9. 19

Lesson 2 •

2.

Why did Paul return again to Galatia according to Acts 18:23?

Please examine these word studies for some of the key words used in this passage.

Strong’s # and Transliteration:

Definition from Strong’s, Concordance unless written in italics:

Use of the word in other Scriptures:

5547 Christos Christos Acts 9:22

Christ, anointed, (from the Greek word chrio that means to anoint or smear with oil), the Messiah, an epithet of Jesus Comfort, imploration, hortation, solace, consolation, exhortation, intreaty

Matthew 16:16

3874 paraklesis paraklesei Acts 9:31

Acts 4:36

3. In this section you will further examine the life of the apostle Paul. Please start by reading the Lord’s prophecy from Acts 9:15,16 and then read Paul’s own explanation of his conversion in Acts 22 and Acts 26. a. How had the Lord directed Paul according to Acts 22:1-21?

b. How did Paul describe his treatment of Christians in Acts 26:9-12?

c. How did Paul explain the Lord’s “commission” of him in Acts 26:15-18?

4. The people known as the Gauls, were tribes of Celtic people from Europe, who settled in central Asia Minor in the third century B.C. when they were asked to come and help a Greek ruler with a political and military dispute. These people were still inhabiting the Roman province of Galatia at the time of the New Testament. The borders of the province were often contested, so the maps of Galatia that are available reflect different borders. In the first century, several towns in the southern region of Galatia were joined by roads on the major trade route connecting the east with the western Roman Empire. Many Jews also settled in this area as merchants to take advantage of trade opportunities. (Pisidian) Antioch was sometimes in the province of Galatia, but not always! The southern border of Galatia was inland from the Mediterranean Sea and so Galatia did not have a seaport. The map that is included in the Appendix shows the Galatian province as it most likely existed during the time of Paul’s third missionary journey, in the first century. 20

Lesson 2 The Roman Emperor Caesar said of the Galatian people, “they are fickle in their resolves, fond of change, and not to be trusted.”3 The Gauls frequently switched sides even in the midst of a battle. Acts 14 gives evidence to this quality of the Galatian people. Stop and consider what Paul wrote to the churches in Galatia and his concern for them. The ideal way to study Paul’s ministry with the people of the province of Galatia would be to read Acts 13 through Acts 16:6 and then Acts 18:23! If you can take the time to do this, you will be blessed. Reading these chapters will help you understand Paul’s ministry as well as Paul’s character. These chapters will also tell you about the Galatian people. Take the map provided in the Appendix and refer to this as you read. Try to briefly summarize what has been recorded according to these three categories. Arriving at a summary statement is very hard for some people, but I know you will be blessed by taking the time to do this. Pray before you begin. Paul’s character: The people of Galatia: Paul’s ministry:

5. Saul was raised in the city of Tarsus, a culturally diverse city with a strong Greek influence. The university in Tarsus rivaled the most respected universities in the world in Athens, Greece and Alexandria, Egypt. Please read Paul’s testimony of his background and his training found in his letter to the church in Philippi in Philippians 3:2-6. How did Paul describe himself to the people of Philippi?

One more reference will also help you understand the apostle Paul from his description of himself to the people in Corinth in 2 Corinthians 11:22-30. Please jot down his experiences from this passage and his attitude toward these events. Continued on the next page.

3

H.L. Wilmington, http://www.christianity.com/…/1,1183,PTID25304%7CCHID7%&CCIID108853,00.htm 21

Lesson 2

In the last two days you read about the Apostle Paul, before he became a believer of Jesus Christ as well as after his conversion. For Paul, there was an incredible contrast between those two. The testimony of your own conversion might be “dramatic,” however many were saved in their childhood and have a less “dramatic” testimony. All Christians can bow before the Lord and acknowledge the before and after of our life, thanking God that while you were once not a follower of Christ, now you are! Spend some time thanking God for your salvation, and for His leading in your life, and for your hunger for knowing more about Him through His precious word.

Day 5 – The Fruit of the Spirit: Love 1. Today you will look at the first fruit of the Spirit, love. Entire books have been written about this type of love, translated from the Greek word agape. You can look at a simple definition of this profound word in the word study in Question 2. Remember that you are not studying God’s holy word to simply acquire more knowledge, but you study the word that it might renew your spirit so that you would be conformed to the image of Jesus Christ. As you open in prayer, ask God for His truth to change any part of you that does not fully love Him and then begin with these observation questions. • Please read aloud Galatians 5:22,23 and write out the first group of three fruit of the Spirit, saying these three words a number of times to help you memorize these words.

22

•

Please read what Jesus said to His followers in Matthew 7:16-20 and Luke 6:43-45. Jot down the important truths of these words from Jesus, please include His final words in Luke 6:45.

•

Another part of the lesson each week will be to study what the New Testament teaches about the Holy Spirit. For today please read what Paul wrote to the church in Rome about those who are followers of Christ in Romans 5:1-5. Please allow these verses to encourage you in your own faith, especially after looking back at Luke 6:45. Please meditate on Romans 5:5 and then write out this verse in your own words, or draw a simple diagram of this truth to help you treasure this in your mind. Remember to record what you learned about the Holy Spirit on page 155 of the Appendix.

Lesson 2 •

2.

One way to understand a concept is to think of what concept or quality would be the opposite of what you are studying. Considering what you have studied today concerning the fruit of the Spirit, love, what do you think would be the opposite of that quality? How can you guard yourself against that being a part of your life? Would you stop and ask God why you can sometimes be vulnerable to this attitude? Please examine this word study for the key word used in today’s passage.

Strong’s # and Transliteration:

Definition from Strong’s Concordance, unless written in italics:

Use of the word in other Scriptures:

26 agape agape Galatians 5:22

Love, i.e. affection or benevolence, a love-feast, a feast of charity, dear. From (#25) agapao, to love in a moral sense. Used in the New Testament as an unconditional, sacrificial love.

John 3:16

3. Now please take the time to read John’s record of Jesus’ teaching to His disciples in John 15:1-17, and then answer the following questions. a. How did Jesus describe Himself in this passage?

b. What does John 15:1-17 say is necessary for bearing fruit?

c. How did Jesus say that the production of fruit could be increased and how is that accomplished? d. What do these words of Jesus say to your spirit?

4. Matthew 22:33-40 reveals how important the fruit of the Spirit of love is. What did Jesus say was important in these verses? What are believers to do?

23

Lesson 2 5. One way to understand the Christian concept of love (agape) is to see how Paul described love in 1 Corinthians 13:4-8a. This list presents a picture of what love is and what love is not, as Paul described the actions involved in love. As you read these words and phrases, note the two that are the easiest for you to live and which two are the hardest for you to express to others.

One way of understanding love is to consider God’s grace toward mankind. God’s grace demonstrates His acceptance of individuals, and the unmerited favor shown through the gift of His only Son the Savior of the world. God in turn asks us to extend grace toward others. This was found on a man’s tombstone, “He found God’s grace too amazing to keep to himself.” Many would say that it is humanly impossible to love with (agape) love without the help of the Holy Spirit. Agape (love) shows commitment and care for another, showing that you desire to give another what they need, even though this might not always be what they want. What keeps you from living in the Spirit and bearing the fruit of love? I asked a friend that question and she said that when she is stressed because her schedule is often too busy, she is not loving toward her family. Is there something that consistently gets in the way of you expressing love toward others? How can you become more loving toward others? Think of one way you might demonstrate love to someone today. Think of one way you might demonstrate love to someone in this next week. Who do you know who manifests the fruit of the Spirit of love? Would you take the time to affirm that person with a note or phone call to encourage them in their walk with the Lord? This would acknowledge that you have noticed their loving attitude toward others. Close in prayer, asking God what one truth from today’s lesson He would have you carry with you through today and tomorrow. I met a pastor who challenges his church to “sleep on” problems, concerns, or truths. By praying about this concern before you go to sleep, and then upon waking turn your mind to that same issue as your first prayer before the Lord in the morning. When I have done this, I have been encouraged by God’s message to me in the morning. Often times a thought comes in the morning after I have given this area of concern over to the Lord the night before. 24

Lesson 3

Lesson 3 – Galatians 1, Galatians 2, and Joy Introduction This week’s lesson will focus on the first two chapters of Galatians and some of the themes that are addressed by Paul. What did Paul mean by the gospel? How can you live out your role as a servant of Christ, rather than living to please mankind? What does it mean to be crucified with Christ? This week will also review both Galatians 1 and Galatians 2, to help you determine the purpose for these two chapters. Day 5 of the lesson will focus on the fruit of the Spirit, joy, examining what this means to the Lord and what this is to mean to Christians.

Day 1 - Galatians 1 1. You have read of Paul’s concern for the situation in the region of Galatia. Bow before the Lord asking Him in prayer to help you with the today’s lesson, and then begin with these observation questions. • What does Paul say about the gospel in Galatians? If you did not mark the word gospel in some way already, please do that now and then make a list of what Paul taught about the gospel, perhaps in the margin of your Scripture Worksheet for Galatians 1. • What was Paul’s concern about the gospel?

•

What did Paul say was promised to those who bring a different gospel?

•

Please read what Paul wrote about the gospel to the people in Corinth in 1 Corinthians 15:1-11,22. (If you read in between verses 11 and 22 you will understand Paul’s concern for the people of Corinth.) How did Paul define the gospel in 1 Corinthians 15?

•

In the book of Acts, Luke recorded the incident where Peter and the apostles were told by the (Hebrew) Council not to teach in the name of Jesus. When the apostles were arrested and miraculously released, they continued to preach and told the Council, “We must obey God rather than men.” Galatians 1:10 addressed an important issue for the believer. What is your standard for the way you make decisions? Is there something you would do for a person’s approval that might not be pleasing to God? Think of a specific decision you made yesterday. What helped you make that decision? Did you pray asking for God’s wisdom before you made the decision? Did the decision run counter to God’s will because it was made in an effort to please someone else? 25

Lesson 3 2.

Please examine this word study for one of the key words used in Galatians 1.

Strong’s # and Transliteration:

Definition from Strong’s Concordance, unless written in italics:

Use of the word in other Scriptures:

2098 euangelion euangelion Galatians 1:6,7

Gospel, a good message. From # 2097 to announce good news, evangelize, especially the gospel, declare, bring (declare, show) glad (good) tidings, preach (the gospel)

1 Corinthians 15:1, (2-4,22)

3. The title of the New Testament books of Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John are each introduced with the phrase, The Gospel According to … The leaders of the early church recognized the need to guard the truth that had been handed down to them, so that there would be no distortion of the gospel message. These early church fathers determined to include specific writings, and to exclude others from the canon, or rule of Scripture. They looked at the author of the writing, and whether the individual was one of the original apostles or had close apostolic association. The writings were also to be accurate in their presentation of the gospel, and both instructive and edifying to the believer. As early as 180 A.D. a list appeared of the books of the New Testament. This is now at a museum in Milan, Italy. Athanasius the great defender of the faith at the time of the Nicean Council in 325 A.D. was the first to list the exact order of the New Testament as it is known today. In an effort to protect God’s truth and His church, the early church leaders closed the canon to anyone in the future who might proclaim a different gospel. Church leaders also wrote “creeds” to carefully explain Christian doctrine. Two of the early “creeds” are included in the Appendix on page 161. You have seen Paul’s concern about the gospel, now please read the apostle John’s concern in 2 John 7-11. What does John say about the importance of abiding in the truth of Jesus Christ? 4. In Lesson 2 you studied Paul and his ministry, before his conversion as well as after. Acts 8 and 9 tells of the incident where Paul pleased men before his conversion. How did Paul’s actions displease God? Please read 2 Corinthians 5:1-10 to see Paul’s perspective on this after he surrendered his life to the Lord Jesus Christ. (Note a key phrase in 2 Corinthians 5:9.)

5. I was challenged this week to think about the miracle of my salvation! It was God who decided that I would be born into a home with a mother who took me to church every Sunday, so that God’s word would be planted in me. As a participant in the ministry of Christian Endeavor I was blessed by the challenge to memorize Scripture. At the age of twelve I recognized my sin and asked Jesus Christ to be my Savior. I could have been born in the midst of a jungle or a vast desert and not had the blessing of my circumstances that led me to the Lord Jesus. Continued on the next page. 26

Lesson 3 I had a professor who suggested that one way to share one’s faith is to consider the following guidelines. He said that a Christian ought to be able to answer these three questions and share their testimony in five minutes! You might consider thinking about these questions, as a means of preparing yourself for an opportunity to witness to someone who has not yet turned their life over to Jesus. In the second section are some of the key verses from Scripture to help you explain the gospel to another. Are you ready to share the hope that is within you if someone asks you to give an account of your faith? Be Ready to Share 1. What was your life like before you accepted Jesus Christ as your Savior?

2. What were the circumstances involved in you becoming a Christian?

The Romans’ Road Romans 3:10 Not even one person is righteous, not even one. Romans 3:22b,23 For there is no distinction, since all have sinned and continue to fall short of God’s glory. Romans 6:23 For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life in union with Christ Jesus our Lord. Romans 5:1 Therefore, since we have been justified be faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ. Romans 10:9,10 So if you declare with your mouth that Jesus is Lord, and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved. For a person believes with his heart and is justified, and a person declares with his mouth and is saved. 3. What difference does Jesus Christ make in your life today?

This is my prayer for today; you might close by praying these thoughts along with me. Dear heavenly Father, thank You for the gift of my salvation, for by Your grace I am clothed in the righteousness of Christ. Please help me make choices today that will please You. Please help me to be more concerned about honoring you and bringing You glory than conforming to the world. Please help me to be conformed to the image of Your beloved Son, Jesus Christ. Please Lord, strengthen me so that my flesh does not show. Give me the strength to please You above the desire to please men or women. I thank You that I can ask this of You in the name of Jesus, my Savior, Amen. 27

Lesson 3

Day 2 - Galatians 2 1. Today’s lesson will examine Galatians 2 to investigate some of the themes in this part of Paul’s epistle. The theme of circumcision will be studied in a later lesson, so hold on to any questions concerning circumcision until then, although the word studies are included in today’s lesson. Open by asking God for His wisdom and guidance as you approach His holy word and then begin with these observation questions. • Look again at the instruction that James, Cephas, and John gave to Paul and Barnabas in Galatians 2:10 and then at the instruction the Lord asked Moses to give to the Israelites in Deuteronomy 14:29 that shows God’s provision for His people. How does this Old Testament teaching line up with what Paul and Barnabas were asked to do?

•

How is a person justified according to Galatians 2:16?

•

What did Paul say about Christ in Galatians 2:15-21?

•

Paul’s teaching in Galatians 2:19-21 is very significant and yet can be confusing. While Christ died a physical death, our death is not physical, but spiritual. Please read Galatians 2:19-21 several times and simply list what Paul said about living and dying.

Living

•

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Dying

Paul used the word grace seven times in Galatians. The truth is that God extends His mercy and His grace upon us moment by moment. Someone developed an acronym for grace as God’s Riches At Christ’s Expense. How would you draw a picture or diagram to symbolize this truth about grace?

Lesson 3 2.

Please examine these word studies for some of the key words used in this passage.

Strong’s # and Transliteration:

Definition from Strong’s Concordance, unless written in italics:

Use of the word in other Scriptures:

4059 peritemno peritmethenai Galatians 2:3

Circumcised, to cut around, circumcised, those who were circumcised came to be known as the Jewish or Hebrew people.

Galatians 5:2,3

Uncircumcised, by implication, gentile, figuratively, unregenerate state or person, not circumcised, uncircumcision. Those outside of the nation of Israel.

Galatians 5:6

Justified, to render (to show or regard as), just or innocent, free, justify (ier), be righteous

Galatians 3:8,11

203 akrobustia akrobustias Galatians 2:7

1344 dikaioo dikaioutai Galatians 2:16,17

Galatians 6:12,13

Galatians 6:15

Galatians 3:24 1249 diakonos diakonos Galatians 2:17 4957 sustauroo sunestauromai Galatians 2:20

5485 charis charin Galatians 2:9,21

Minister, an attendant, a waiter, (at a table or other menial duties), specifically a Christian teacher and pastor (technically a deacon or deaconess), deacon, servant Crucified, to impale in company with, crucify with, co-crucified. The prefix sun means with or together.

1 Corinthians 3:5

Grace, graciousness, (as gratifying), of manner or act (abstract or concrete, literally, figuratively, or spiritual: especially the divine influence upon the heart, and its reflection in the life; including gratitude): acceptable, benefit, favour, gift, joy liberality, pleasure, thank (-s, -worthy)

Galatians 5:4

Used four times in the New Testament when it does not refer to Christ’s crucifixion. Galatians 5:24, 6:14

Galatians 6:18

3. Romans 6:6 is one of the four verses in the New Testament where the word crucified was used where it did not refer to Christ’s crucifixion. Please read Romans 6:6 in its context, which would probably be all of Romans 6, and then Colossians 3:9-14. Ask God to help you summarize what these verses say about you because of the sacrifice of Jesus Christ.

There is more space on the next page. 29

Lesson 3

4. When Christ was crucified at Calvary, the bondage of sin was broken, as Christ’s holy sacrifice paid the penalty for the sin of all mankind. Christ’s death on the cross set us free so that we might choose obedience and be free to live in righteousness. To identify with Christ in His death, burial, and resurrection is to acknowledge our sin and our need for a Savior. Paul said that he had been crucified with Christ. When Jesus was crucified, the thick veil in front of the Holy of Holies in the temple in Jerusalem was torn in two, showing that when God allowed His holy Son to be sacrificed, mankind became right with God and could come to God with Christ as their intercessor, because the barrier was removed that had kept man separated from the Lord God. Sometimes as humans we can allow spiritual blindness to separate us from God by denying our own sin and disobedience. There might be an area of your life where you have not yet died to yourself. How would you identify that part of you that you have held back from totally surrendering to the Lord?

Paul closed Galatians 2 with a reference to setting aside God’s grace. F.F. Bruce wrote that there were two ways of “nullifying God’s grace, or receiving it ‘in vain’: one, by receiving it and then going on as though it made no difference by continuing to live ‘under law,’ and the other, by receiving it and then going on as though it made no difference, by continuing to sin ‘that grace may abound,’ Romans 6:1.”4 Please close today in prayer, perhaps allowing the words of this song to be the message of your heart. Someone once rewrote this song to point out the struggle of the human flesh, whereby they were willing to surrender “some,” but not “all.” Are you willing to surrender all to the Lord? You will be blessed when you do. Dying to self means living to Jesus, trusting Him with today and tomorrow. “I Surrender All” All to Jesus I surrender, all to Him I freely give; I will ever love and trust Him, in His presence daily live. I surrender all, I surrender all, all to Thee, my blessed Savior, I surrender all. By Judson W. Wan de Venter and Winfield S. Weeden.

4

F.F. Bruce, The Epistle to the Galatians, Grand Rapids, Wm. B. Eerdmans Pub. Co, 1982, p. 146. 30

Lesson 3

Days 3 and 4 - Galatians 1 and 2 Review 1. Before the study of Galatians moves onto Galatians 3, you will spend the next two days reviewing Galatians 1 and 2. This will involve thinking back over each of these chapters to look for the main ideas or themes that were presented. What did Paul communicate to the churches in Galatia, and how did he communicate? Some people struggle with the time of review in inductive study, however when you spend the time thinking back over the chapters that have been studied, you will be blessed by remembering the main idea of each chapter, and eventually the main idea of the book. You must start by praying, asking God for His help and praising the Lord that He has promised that the Holy Spirit will help you. • Please read Galatians 1 and 2 one more time looking at Paul’s concern for certain individuals or groups of people. Who were these individuals and how would you briefly describe Paul’s concern? The people that Paul wrote about: A summary statement describing Paul’s concern for these people or individuals:

•

How would you summarize Paul’s attitude toward the churches in Galatia?

•

Please list the key words in Galatians 1 and Galatians 2.

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Lesson 3 2. As you look back at Galatians 1 and 2, notice the means of communication that Paul used. You already looked for those declarative statements where Paul taught doctrine as well as some sentences that taught historical narrative. In the Appendix, on page 148, the different means of communication are explained. Paul used declarative statements, instructions, exhortations, warnings, and admonitions in his writing to communicate his purpose. As you go through the book of Galatians, the lessons will point out to you examples of these, to help you determine the author’s purpose. Here is a description of each of these means of communication and some examples from Galatians 1 and 2 to help you determine the themes of each paragraph as well as the theme for each of the chapters. Discerning the differences is not easy, but I am trusting the Lord with how He will use this time to help you think about how Paul used these means of communication. a. The word exhortation comes from the word exhort which was used in the New Testament to mean coming alongside of someone, reminding them of God’s truth, and perhaps urging them to be obedient to the word of God. Exhortations might also be stated in the form of something that is promised from God. I believe that Galatians 1:3-5 are words of exhortation. Read these verses and if you agree, mark these verses in some way as an exhortation. You will see more exhortations as you continue in Galatians. b. Another important means of communication from God, Christ, the prophets or apostles was the issuing of warnings, which were usually followed by a recompense or consequence for the sin that would follow someone’s sinful attitude or actions. Warning statements addressed a behavior that would lead to a problem or consequence. Read Galatians 1:8,9 and see how those two verses contain two warnings. Mark these in some way. You will see more warnings as you continue in Galatians. c. Sometimes Scripture will confront a specific behavior of the recipient or recipients that has not honored God. The Bible contains admonitions that call the believer to consider their lifestyle choices, recognizing that God is aware of the thoughts and actions of each of His children. I think that Galatians 1:6 is an admonition. Read this verse to see why I have decided that. Another example of an admonition is given in Galatians 2:14, although it is Paul sharing an admonition that he gave to Cephas. Label these admonitions by marking them in some way. You will see more admonitions as you continue in Galatians. d. The instructions can be found with the help of several clues. Instructions were generally written as commands, where the author tells the recipient or recipients to “do something.” Sometimes in a narrative passage of Scripture someone is given an instruction. There are no instructions in Galatians 1 and 2, so you will look for those in a later chapter! 3. Now is the time to reflect back on the message of Galatians 1 and 2. Look at the means of communication that you marked on your Scripture Worksheets. Most of the emphasis in the two chapters was Paul’s declarative statements, where Paul declared doctrine and historical narrative. In the midst of this teaching he shared truths to exhort, word to warn, and admonitions to confront ungodly thoughts or behavior. Using some of the key words written in Galatians 1 and 2, you will now consider a theme for each of the paragraphs you studied in these chapters. It might help to write out several summary statements for each section, and then try to limit your statement to no more than five words. List these statements on the chart below as well as on page 153 of the Appendix, in the sections for Chapter 1 and Chapter 2 Summary Statements. 32

Lesson 3 Paragraph Summary Statements of Galatians 1 Galatians 1:1-5

Galatians 1:6-10

Galatians 1:11-14

Galatians 1:15-17

Galatians 1:18-24

Paragraph Summary Statements of Galatians 2 Galatians 2:1-5

Galatians 2:6-10

Galatians 2:11-14

Galatians 2:15-16

Galatians 2:17-21

4. The next part of the lesson is to ask God to show you the themes for Galatians 1 and Galatians 2 based on the main points of each paragraph. Is there one theme that the separate paragraph themes would “fit” under? Sometimes you can take some of the key words from the paragraph themes and write those into a theme or title for the entire chapter. Pray and ask for help with this part of the lesson, and then read through these paragraph themes you listed to do this. Now list your title for Galatians 1 and Galatians 2 on the Theme and Title Chart in the Appendix on page 153. 33

Lesson 3 5. My prayer continues to be that these words written so long ago would be very practical in your life today. Please close by reading Psalm 130 as a prayer of gratitude to the Lord God because you have been set free and accepted as His dear child. As you read, praise His holy name!

Day 5 – The Fruit of the Spirit - Joy 1. The Westminster Catechism states that the chief end of man is to “glorify God and enjoy Him forever.” One of the goals for this ministry is to glorify God and to enjoy Him (more today than yesterday). I enjoyed focusing on this study of joy. It blessed me to look at God’s perspective on this fruit of the Spirit. I love the beautiful hymn “Joyful, Joyful, We Adore Thee,” please open today’s time by singing this song as a prayer and then open with the following observation questions. “Joyful, Joyful We Adore Thee” Joyful, joyful we adore Thee, God of glory, Lord of love; hearts unfold like flowers before Thee, hail Thee as the sun above. Melt the clouds of sin and sadness, drive the dark of doubt away; giver of immortal gladness, fill us with the light of day! By Henry Van Dyke and Ludwig Van Beethoven.

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•

Do you remember the phrase from Nehemiah 8:10 that claims that “the joy of the Lord is my strength”? What brings God joy, and how can that bring you strength? Is this related to what brings God’s followers joy? Before you answer these questions, let me share that Psalm 37:23 has helped me understand this better. Read this verse and then relate the psalmist’s truth to Nehemiah 8:10 and the questions that were asked above.

•

Paul was concerned that the Galatian people not misunderstand their salvation. How does Paul summarize the kingdom of God in Romans 14:17? Meditate on this truth in relationship to what you have learned in your study of Galatians.

•

Please read Peter’s introduction to his first epistle in 1 Peter 1:1,2 to see what Peter teaches about the Holy Spirit. Please record this truth on your Holy Spirit chart in the Appendix. Notice in 1 Peter 1:1 the audience to whom Peter was writing!

Lesson 3 2.

Please examine these word studies for the key words used in today’s lesson.

Strong’s # and Transliteration:

Definition from Strong’s Concordance, unless written in italics:

Use of the word in other Scriptures:

5479 chara chara Galatians 5:22 38 hagiasmos hagiasmo 1 Peter 1:2

Joy, cheerfulness, i.e. calm delight, gladness, greatly, be (exceedingly) joy (-ful, -fully, -fullness, -ous), to rejoice Sanctifying, purification, (the state) purity, holiness, sanctification. Used of those set apart by God.

1 Peter 1:8 2 Thessalonians 2:13

3. What did Jesus say His disciples are to do and what does Jesus say about joy in these two passages? a. John 15:9-15 b. John 16:20-22 4. As a Christian your perspective on events in the world should be different from those who have not put their faith in Christ Jesus. Close this section by looking at three passages to see God’s perspective on joy. a. Isaiah 51:1-3 b. Hebrews 12:2

c. James 1:2-5

5. Please close by reading the “parable of the talents,” that Jesus told in Matthew 25:14-30. As you read look for what brings joy according to Christ’s teaching.

Who do you know who manifests the fruit of the Spirit of joy? Would you take the time to affirm that person with a note or phone call to encourage them in their walk with the Lord? This would acknowledge that you have noticed their joyful attitude and that their attitude has built you up. Continued on the next page. 35

Lesson 3 Happiness is an emotional response to what is happening, although joy to the Christian means….

Do you reflect God’s joy to others? To have joy is to recognize and be grateful for the gift of our salvation and the many blessings we have in Christ. In God’s word Christians are commanded to have joy. What keeps you from expressing the joy of the Lord to others?

Psalm 16:11 says, Thou wilt make known to me the path of life; in Thy presence is fullness of joy; in Thy right hand there are pleasures forever. I shared with a friend that I see the joy of the Lord in her and she confessed that it is really hard for her to express joy in her home and she asked me to pray about that for her. If you struggle with this, ask God to help you identify the reason for the struggle. When you ask someone to hold you accountable you establish a very positive pattern for your life. When you are obedient to confess your sin to another this often breaks the hold that the pattern of disobedience has had on you.

Expressing the joy within you through smiles and laughter has proven to contribute to a healthy lifestyle. Think about this. Do you smile often? When was the last time you laughed? The fruit of the Spirit is available to those who are “indwelt and energized by the Spirit.”5 Take a minute to reflect on this question, “From what source have you received your energy today?” Did it come from reading the newspaper so that you are informed about what is going on in the world? Did your energy come from reading God’s holy word and spending time with Him? Years ago someone developed an acronym for joy as follows: JOY is to order your life to put Jesus first in all that you do, to honor and serve Others, and to take care of Yourself. Have you made Jesus “first” in your life? Do you honor God by serving others? Do you take care of yourself?

You might close by singing “Joyful, Joyful, We Adore Thee” from the beginning of the lesson (on page 34), as an act of worship before the Lord.

5

F.F. Bruce, Ibid., p. 251. 36

Lesson 4

Lesson 4 – Galatians 3:1-18 and Peace Introduction In this week’s lesson you will begin to study Galatians 3, exploring the important doctrinal truths that Paul taught to the people in the churches in Galatia. At the end of the week, you will look at the fruit of the Spirit, peace and what that means to those who follow Christ Jesus. A reminder about memorization! Do not forget to ask God to accomplish this is you. Begin today with a few thoughts to remind yourself as to why you should spend the time and effort learning Scripture in this way!

Day 1 – Galatians 3, Comprehensive Chapter Study 1. Remember that every time you begin a new chapter you will spend time going through a process called the Comprehensive Chapter Study. The pattern for inductive study is to observe a chapter, study the chapter, and then determine the themes of the chapter. Today you will observe the Scripture Worksheets for Galatians Chapter 3. Open in prayer asking for the Lord’s help and then read Galatians 3 paying attention to the key words that are repeated. You can refer to the Appendix pages 147, 149, and 151 for help with the inductive observation process. • Mark the key words in Galatians 3. Now is the time to list what is being taught concerning the key words of Galatians 3, by writing a list of what is being stated about the key word when the author used the word. You can place these lists directly on the Scripture Worksheets in the right-hand margin under the heading of the key word, or place your lists on a separate sheet of paper. Record the key words from Galatians 3 here.

2. As you read Galatians 3, you can also look for contrasts and comparisons that were used. Refer to Appendix pages 149 and 151, and then write those here in the space provided, or mark your Scripture Worksheets in some way to show these contrasts and comparisons. Contrasts (to show differences/opposites)

Comparisons (to show similarities and connections, using the words as or like)

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Lesson 4 3. You have already started to study the author’s purpose for the book by looking for the declarative statements, exhortations, warnings and admonitions. Now as you read Galatians 3, look for any the declarative statements mark these in some way. The majority of Paul’s teaching in Galatians 3 includes declarative statements. One example is in Galatians 3:6, as this is a statement of truth in the midst of teaching on Abraham. Sometimes an author might ask questions to cause their audience to think, so questions can be declarative statements. 4. Look for terms of expression that help you understand time, with words like “now, then, later,” etc. and mark these in a consistent way. Another means of understanding language is to examine the way verbs are used in writing. A simple explanation of verbs is that they are words that express action or the state of being, and they relate the words communicated within a framework of time. Verbs communicate that something is happening at the moment, or has happened in the past, or will happen in the future. (The verbs in the preceding sentence are in italics.) Verbs can also announce that an event has already taken place and the results of that event are continuing at the present time. Please take the time to read Galatians 3 looking for the different verb tenses that were used, noting in the left hand margin references to the future, the present, or the past. This can add another dimension to your study, not because you will be studying verbs, but this will help you see what God has done in the past, what He is doing in your life today, as well as show you what the future holds. 5. Mark words that express conclusion or show results or purpose with words like “for,” “for this reason,” “so that,” and “because.” Words that express conclusion are important to note because they show why the author wrote what he wrote and help you see the promises or consequences that will come. 6. Did you see a truth in Galatians 3 that the Lord wants you to focus upon? Was there a phrase or a verse that caused you to think about your own life and lifestyle? How has this portion of Scripture ministered to you today?

Please close by praying through a verse that was meaningful to you and make it very personal to yourself and where you are in your life today. My verse is Galatians 3:24 and I have prayed; “Father God, I thank You that You decided that the Law would be my tutor to bring me to Christ Jesus, that I might be justified by faith. I praise You Lord for the provision You have made for me to be made alive in Christ Jesus, and it is in His holy name that I pray. Amen.”

Day 2 – Galatians 3:1-6 1. Today you will continue with Paul’s teaching to the churches of Galatia. Open in prayer asking God to help you with today’s lesson, that it might make a difference in your life and equip you for what God has planned for you. Open with the observation questions. 38

Lesson 4

2.

•

How did Paul address the recipients of his letter in Galatians 3:1-6 and what was his concern?

•

Notice in this section the number of questions Paul asked. Mark these questions in some way. I simply circled the question mark at the end of the question. As you read these questions you will see that many of Paul’s questions would be considered to be rhetorical, as he asked a question while already knowing the answer. This is another way of teaching, getting the audience to think about something for themselves.

•

What has God given to those who believe according to this passage and how was this accomplished?

•

What was said about Abraham in today’s paragraph?

Please examine these word studies for some of the key words used in this passage.

Strong’s # and Transliteration:

Definition from Strong’s Concordance, unless written in italics:

Use of the word in other Scriptures:

453 anoetos anoetoi Galatians 3:1

Foolish, unintelligent, by implication sensual, unwise

Used five times in the New Testament. Romans 1:14

3551 nomos nomou Galatians 3:2

Law, (through the idea of prescriptive usage), regulation, specifically of Moses, also of the Gospel, or figuratively, a principle Believing, persuasion, i.e. credence, moral conviction (or religious truth or the truthfulness of God or a religious teacher) especially reliance upon Christ for salvation; abstract, constancy in such profession; by extension, the system of religious (gospel) truth itself; assurance, belief, faith, fidelity

Hebrews 9:22

4102 pistis pisteos Galatians 3:2

Hebrews 11:1

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Lesson 4 Strong’s # and Transliteration:

Definition from Strong’s Concordance, unless written in italics:

Use of the word in other Scriptures:

4561sarx sarki Galatians 3:3

Flesh, (as stripped of the skin), i.e. strictly the meat of an animal (as food), or (by extension) the body (as opposed to the soul [or spirit], or as the symbol of what is external, or as the means of kindred), or by implication human nature, with its frailties [physical or moral], and passions, or specifically a human being, carnal, (-ly, or carnally minded)

Galatians 5:17,19-21

Believed, to have faith (in, upon, or with respect to, a person or thing), i.e. credit, by implication to entrust (especially one’s spiritual well-being to Christ), commit (to trust), put trust in Credited, accounted KJV, to take an inventory, i.e. estimate, conclude, + despise, esteem, impute, lay, number, reason, reckoned, suppose, think (on) Righteousness, equity (of character or act), specifically (Christian) justification

Romans 4:5 (mark this for later)

4100 pisteuo episteusen Galatians 3:6 3049 logizomai elogisthe Galatians 3:6 1343 dikaiosune dikaiosunen Galatians 3:6

Galatians 5:24

2 Corinthians 5:19

Romans 5:21

3. Paul brought the gospel to the people of Galatia. How did Paul describe his teaching and God’s role in this gospel proclamation in Galatians 3:1-5?

4. The book of James addressed this same issue to the scattered brethren in the early church. Read James 2:20-26 and note how this passage says that a man is justified. What is the role of works according to James?

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Lesson 4 5. Galatians 3:6 is a quotation from Genesis 15:6. Paul taught more about Abraham in his letter to the people of Galatia that you will study later. For now please read Genesis 15:16 and look for what God announced to Abraham about His character as well as how Abraham responded.

6. Paul said that the Lord had worked miracles among the Galatian people. Think about some examples of what God has done in your own life since you have become a follower of Christ, and think about what God has done through you since you put your faith in Jesus. After you have remembered some evidence of these miracles, jot down the incidence, not just to write it down, but as preparation for you to share with someone else!

Close your time today by quieting your heart so that you might truly praise God for who He is. Thank God for the gift of His Son who made it possible for you to be clothed in righteousness that you might be in communion with the Lord God Almighty.

Day 3 – Galatians 3:7-14 1. Back in Lesson 1 you were asked to mark in some way the “other individuals” in the book of Galatians. This category would include any people other than the author and the recipients of the book. When you did this, did you mark Abraham’s name in some way? I highlighted his name with orange so that when I look at the Scripture Worksheets I see how often Abraham is mentioned. If you have not already marked the name of Abraham begin today by reading through Galatians 3 and mark the name of Abraham in some way. Then open in prayer asking God to reveal to you the message of Abraham in this letter to the churches of Galatia. Please begin with these observation questions. • Who are Abraham’s real descendants according to today’s passage in Galatians 3? •

An important declarative statement was made in Galatians 3:8. Please write out that quotation and mark in some way the personal significance of that truth. Then meditate on this truth and take the time to summarize the concluding statement made in Galatians 3:9.

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Lesson 4

2.

•

The Scripture that we call the Old Testament was called the sacred writings by the nation of Israel, and these writings were considered to be completely trustworthy. The word of the Lord was known as “concrete,” something that would not change. The phrase “the Scripture saw ahead of time” is a phrase that gives evidence to the sovereignty of God, as if to say “the Lord of Scripture speaks.” God had a plan for all of mankind that He set in place before man was aware of His provision. God has revealed His truth to mankind through the Holy Spirit so that His followers are able to understand the truth of His word. Please turn to Genesis 12:1-3 as verse 3 was quoted in Galatians 3:8. What was the promise made to Abram in these verses? (Abraham was first called Abram, before God changed his name.)

•

Centuries after Abraham lived, the nation of Israel was given the Law through Moses. Paul quoted several of these commandments (from Leviticus and Deuteronomy) that are recorded in Galatians 3. When Israel was about to enter the promised land, God told His people they would receive blessings if they would obey Him and curses if they were disobedient. What was promised to the Gentiles according to Galatians 3:14 and how would this be possible?

Please examine these word studies for some of the key words used in this passage.

Strong’s # and Transliteration:

Definition from Strong’s Concordance, unless written in italics:

Use of the word in other Scriptures:

1484 ethnos ethne Galatians 3:8

Gentiles, a race, (as of the same habit), i.e. tribe, specifically foreign (nonJewish), one (usually by implication, pagan), heathen, nation, people Blessed, to speak well of (religiously), to bless (thank or invoke a benediction upon, prosper), praise Abide, to stay in the same place, i.e. figuratively to persevere, continue NASB, remain NIV

Galatians 3:8, (nations)

Redeemed, to buy up, i.e. ransom, figuratively, to rescue from loss, (improve opportunity). To buy all that can be bought, not allowing a suitable moment to pass by unheeded.6

Used four times in the New Testament. Ephesians 5:16

2127 eulogeo eulogountai Galatians 3:9 1696 emmeno emmenei Galatians 3:10 1805 exagorazo exegorasen Galatians 3:13 Galatians 4:5

6

Romans 12:14 Used three times in the New Testament. Hebrews 8:9

Colossians 4:5

Spiros Zodhiates, The Complete Word Study New Testament, Chattanaooga, AMG Publishers, 1991, p. 913. 42

Lesson 4 Strong’s # and Transliteration:

Definition from Strong’s Concordance, unless written in italics:

Use of the word in other Scriptures:

2671 katara kataras Galatians 3:10,13 1944 epikataratos epikataratos Galatians 3:10,13

Curse, (-d, -ing), imprecation, execration

Used five times in the New Testament. 2 Peter 2:14 Used three times in the New Testament. John 7:49

1860 epaggelia epaggelian Galatians 3:14 Galatians 3:17

3.

Cursed, imprecated, execrable, accursed. To lay a curse on; one on whom a curse rests or in whom it is realized.7 Promise, an announcement (for information), assent or pledge: especially a divine assurance of good: message

Romans 4:13

What is the contrast Paul made in Galatians 3:10,11?

4. Besides the reference to Genesis 12:3, Paul also quoted from Deuteronomy 27:26, Habakkuk 2:4, Deuteronomy 21:22,23, and Leviticus 18:5 in today’s paragraphs. Sometimes when you read an Old Testament quotation in the New Testament, it might be worded slightly differently than it is in the Old Testament in your Bible. Many times the New Testament references to the Old Testament were taken from the Septuagint translation, the Greek translation of the Hebrew Scriptures. This was translated several centuries before Christ by a team of Hebrew scholars who also spoke Koine Greek, the language of the Greek empire. When Alexander the Great united various regions and assembled a powerful army, he asked scholars to “simplify” the Greek language (known today as classical Greek) so that the members of the army who came together with many languages and dialects could learn a language and be able to communicate with one another. When the sacred writings of the law, prophets, and writings were translated into this (Koine) Greek the language served to also provide a means of uniting the early church of the first century. What was the consequence of the warning stated in Galatians 3:10, and how did God take care of that situation? How would you explain this to someone who has never heard the gospel?

7

Ibid., p. 914. 43

Lesson 4 5. Habakkuk wrote that “the righteous will live by faith,” in Habakkuk 2:4. This verse was also quoted in Hebrews 10:38 and was followed by the “faith” chapter, Hebrews 11. Please read Hebrews 10:37 through Hebrews 11:3 and then Hebrews 11:8-19 for a commentary on Abraham. What is the evidence that proves that Abraham lived by faith, according to the book of Hebrews?

6. Please close your time today by reading Paul’s teaching to the church in Rome in Romans 4:1-8. Please summarize how this passage confirms Paul’s teaching in Galatians 3.

Who is blessed according to Romans 4:7,8?

Someone said that a sign of a Christian is a person with a grateful heart who expresses their gratitude to God. Please close by thanking God for the blessing of your salvation, perhaps by praying the Scripture of Galatians 3:14 and Romans 4:7,8.

Day 4 – Galatians 3:15-18 1. Paul continued to present his “case” to the churches of Galatia in today’s passage. Ask God to help you want to continue with this chapter, that you would anticipate what truths He will clarify for you today. As you study, meditate on God’s truth. Sometimes I need to be quiet after working on a lesson so that I can grasp God’s truth. I have the luxury of being quiet before the Lord throughout the day. Read today’s paragraph and open with these observation questions. • How did Paul address the recipients in Galatians 3:15? Why is this greeting significant?

•

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What did Paul write about a person’s will in Galatians 3:15?

Lesson 4

2.

•

God spoke a promise to Abraham in Genesis 22:16-18. Write out what God promised Abraham in these verses.

•

God’s covenant with Abraham was first mentioned in Genesis 15:18. What did God say to Abraham in His promise? (Question 4 will also look at this, so mark your place if you are going to continue!)

Please examine these word studies for some of the key words used in this lesson.

Strong’s # and Transliteration:

Definition from Strong’s Concordance, unless written in italics:

Use of the word in other Scriptures:

1285 beriyth Genesis 15:18

Covenant, a compact, (made by passing between pieces of flesh); confederacy, league. A solemn promise, common among all cultures throughout the ancient near east. Covenant, a disposition, i.e. a contract (especially a devisory will): testament, a binding agreement. In the New Testament, a declaration of God’s unconditional disposition as given to Abraham.8

Jeremiah 31:31-33

1242 diatheke diatheken Galatians 3:15 (will) Galatians 3:17

Hebrews 9:15

3. Read and briefly summarize God’s prophecy to Abraham in Genesis 15:13 and then the Old Testament verse that verifies Galatians 3:17’s reference to time in Exodus 12:40,41.

4. Genesis 15 describes the time when God made a covenant with Abraham. The Hebrew word for covenant comes from a word that means cutting. In a covenant in the ancient near east flesh was cut, usually the flesh of an animal, and blood became a symbol of the agreement. Please read Genesis 15 and jot down notes concerning the covenant made. One way of describing an event is to answer the “5 Ws and an H” questions, such as the following. a. Who was involved? b. When did this happen? c. Where did this event take place? 8

Ibid., p. 902. 45

Lesson 4 d. (Summarize) what took place?

e. Why is this event important or how did this impact others?

5.

What did Paul announce concerning God’s promise to Abraham in Romans 4:13?

Now read Romans 4:13-17 and ask God to show you where you fit into this promise. Please take the time to meditate on this truth before closing your time with the Lord today. You might join with me by praising God for His truth of Romans 8:16,17. I have restated these verses as a prayer of thanksgiving unto the Lord as I remain in awe of His provision. “Father God I thank You that the Holy Spirit testifies with my spirit the truth that I am one of Your children. I thank You that I am Your heir and a fellow heir with my Savior Jesus Christ. I thank You Lord that You trust Your children to suffer with Jesus in order that we might also share in His glory. I have prayed this in the holy name of Jesus my Savior, Amen.”

Day 5 – The Fruit of the Spirit - Peace 1. Today’s lesson deals with a quality most people in the world seek. What does God’s word say about this fruit of the Spirit, peace? Open your time in this lesson by praying, seeking God’s help and guidance. My prayer is that you would have the mind of Christ as you complete this lesson. Open with these observation questions. • To you, what is the opposite of peace?

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Lesson 4 •

What do you do when there is an absence of peace in your life?

•

In the midst of Jesus’ teaching to His disciples before His crucifixion, what did He say about peace in John 14:27? (Please also make note of the contrast Jesus made.)

•

The apostle Paul had a full knowledge of what the word peace meant to the Hebrew people. These verses in Isaiah show God’s perspective on peace, based on the Hebrew word shalom.

A Messianic prophecy (a prophecy concerning the Messiah) in Isaiah 9:6,7

• 2.

Our responsibility concerning peace from Isaiah 26:3,4

How was the Holy Spirit described in John 14:16 and 26? Record these truths on the Holy Spirit reference sheet in your Appendix. Please examine these word studies for two key words used in today’s lesson.

Strong’s # and Transliteration:

Definition from Strong’s Concordance, unless written in italics:

Use of the word in other Scriptures:

7965 shalom Isaiah 26:3

Peace, safe, well, happy, friendly, welfare, i.e. health, prosperity… (Can mean) the absence of strife; expresses completeness, harmony, fulfillment Peace, by implication prosperity, one, peace, quietness, rest, set at one again. In contrast with strife, a state of untroubled, undisturbed, well-being.

Isaiah 48:22

1515 eirene eirene Galatians 5:22

James 3:18 (mark this for later)

3. The book of Isaiah contains another truth that you might meditate upon. Read Isaiah 48:22 and respond to this statement that was spoken by the Lord. Can you think of a time in your life when this statement became real to you personally?

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Lesson 4 4.

Please read Jesus’ words of Matthew 5:9. What did Jesus say about peace?

5. The book of James directs Christians to ask for God’s wisdom whenever you need it. I do not know about you, but for me that is everyday… Please read what James wrote about peace in James 3:17,18 and briefly explain his teaching here.

6. Scripture often records that Paul prayed that followers of Christ would have grace and peace. Because of the promises God has made to us in His holy word, we can live in peace, sometimes one moment at a time. I remember learning this lesson years ago when I heard the doctor say that my Mother had a cancerous lesion in the frontal lobe of her brain. The week before I had memorized Philippians 4:6,7 and realized that I could only be obedient to that command if I talked to God every time I was anxious, because coming to God whenever anxious thoughts enter my mind reminds me of God’s faithfulness, in every circumstance. Before learning this lesson about anxiety and peace, I used to enter into speculations, and the enemy of my soul would lead me down a path of anxiety and despair. We are told in 2 Corinthians 10:5 to destroy speculations and every lofty thing raised up against the knowledge of God, and to take every thought captive to the obedience of Christ. Obedience to Christ is to be anxious for nothing. Now I truly set aside every “But what if …” that comes to my mind when I an anxious, and I ask God what He would have me do this minute, or this day, or maybe next week. I have chosen to trust God with this minute, with each day, and with whatever He allows to come my way. When I praise God for His faithfulness and thank Him for His many blessings and for the provision He had made for me, my anxiety fades. Please read the promise made to believers in Philippians 4:6,7 and then write out what you are to do about anxiety and what has been promised to you.

Who do you know who manifests the fruit of the Spirit of peace? Would you take the time to affirm that person with a note or phone call to encourage them in their walk with the Lord? This would acknowledge that you have noticed the fruit of the Spirit, peace in their life and it has made a difference to you. Continued on the next page.

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Lesson 4 In regard to this issue of having peace or not having peace, whose counsel do you take? Remember what you learned about the role of the Holy Spirit from John 14? It comes down to your worldview. What is your perspective and the foundation for your life? Is your life surrendered to the Lord or to the world? Do you have an accurate understanding of God?

To be controlled by fear is to focus on what is near. To be controlled by the blessed Holy Spirit is to look to God for wisdom and focus on Him. Difficult times will come into every person’s life. Do not let a crisis rob you of the peace you can have in Christ. Do not let the crisis rob you of precious communion with God. You might close by prayerfully reading the two poems that I have included that consider the fruit of the Spirit, peace. One was written in the 13th century and the other was written by a friend of mine while we were studying the theme of peace in the book of Ephesians.

A Prayer for All O Lord make of me an instrument of Thy peace; Where there is hatred, let me put love, Where there is resentment let me put forgiveness, Where there is discord let me put unity, Where there is doubt let me put faith, Where there is error let me put truth Where there is despair let me bring happiness, Where there is sadness let me bring joy, Where there is darkness let me bring light. O Master grant that I may desire rather: To console than to be consoled, To understand rather than to be understood. To love rather than to be loved. Because it is in giving than we receive; In forgiving that we obtain forgiveness; In dying that we rise to eternal life. By St. Francis of Assisi

The Peace of the Lord God gives us peace, abundant peace Jesus came to give us peace Not as the world sees, But in our faith. Come trust in the Lord, and you will see. Cast all your cares upon Him now and always, always pray. Walk with Him, and talk with Him, And never turn away. When the world seems heavy, dim, and cold, Be steadfast in your mind, Humble yourself and lean on Him; And God will never fail to comfort you and exalt you; So that you have strength to prevail. Then you can comfort those around you, Walking in a gentle spirit. Put on the love that Jesus gives, To share with those around. Be brave, be strong, and never let go Of the God who loves us so! By Leslie Raynor

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Lesson 5

Lesson 5 – Galatians 3:19-29 and Patience Introduction This week’s lesson will continue with Galatians 3 and then review the chapter so that you can look at the themes of Galatians 3. The lesson will also begin the observation of Galatians 4, and conclude with a look at the fruit of the Spirit, patience. As you are approaching the half way point in the study of the book of Galatians, you might want to open by asking God for His help in sticking with the study, remembering the goal you set in Lesson 1, and praying again against those issues you thought might become obstacles for you as you study. God is faithful and He delights in you studying His holy word that it might transform your spirit and renew your mind.

Days 1 and 2 – Galatians 3:19-29 1. In the next two days you will complete Galatians 3. Please open your time each day in prayer, asking God to help you understand this important teaching on the law. Read Galatians 3:19-29 and then begin with these observation questions. • In Galatians 3:19, Paul asked a question and then gave an answer. Why did he say the law was given?

•

How was the law given, and how did God accomplish this?

•

Who will receive the promise of the faithfulness of Christ?

•

Paul made a very powerful statement about the law in Galatians 3:24, please write out that truth here.

•

One of the contrasts that Paul made in Galatians 3 is concerned with who we were before coming to Jesus, and who we are now as His follower. Please read Galatians 3:22-29 noting the contrast Paul made and as you do this, thank God for this truth that your spirit might be encouraged.

According to Galatians 3:22,23, who you were before Christ:

According to Galatians 3:26-29, who you are now:

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Lesson 5 2.

Please examine these word studies for some of the key words used in this passage.

Strong’s # and Transliteration:

Definition from Strong’s Concordance, unless written in italics:

Use of the word in other Scriptures:

3847 parabasis parabaseon Galatians 3:19

Transgressions, violation, breaking. An act which is excessive, as parabasis means the transgression of a commandment distinctly given which is more serious than the word hamartia,9 see below. Put into effect ISV, ordained, to arrange thoroughly, specifically institute, prescribe: appoint, command, give, set in order, directed Mediator, a go-between, an internunciator, or by implication a reconciler (intercessor)

Romans 5:14

1299 diatasso diatageis Galatians 3:19 3316 mesites mesitou Galatians 3:19

Acts 7:44 (directed)

Hebrews 9:15

266 hamartia hamartian Galatians 3:22

Sin, offense. Missing the true goal and scope of life. Offense in relation to God with emphasis on the resulting guilt.10

Romans 3:20

3807 paidagogos paidagogos Galatians 3:24

Guardian, tutor NASB, a servant whose role it was to take the children to school, instructor, schoolmaster; only used in relationship to children Heirs, getting by apportionment, a sharer by lot, i.e. an inheritor, a possessor

Used three times in the New Testament. 1 Corinthians 4:15

2818 kleronomos kleronomos Galatians 3:29

Galatians 4:7

3. Before the people of Israel entered the land that God had promised to them, God spoke to Moses on behalf of the people. In Deuteronomy 5 the Ten Commandments were “repeated.” Please read Deuteronomy 5:5,22-33 and then briefly describe this information that Paul summarized in Galatians 3:19.

Now please read the apostle John’s summary of this and record the contrast made in John 1:17.

9

Ibid., p. 943. Ibid., p. 884. 52 10

Lesson 5 Stephen, a deacon in the early church proclaimed Jesus Christ in his defense before the high priest in Jerusalem. What did Stephen say in Acts 7:38 and 53 that helps to explain Galatians 3:19?

4. Now look at Paul’s writing to Timothy in 1 Timothy 1:8-11. How would you summarize Paul’s statement about those for whom the law was made? (Save this place for the next question too!)

5. Now please read 1 Timothy 2:5,6 to see a simple explanation of Christ’s role and record that here.

6. I love the truth that Paul proclaimed in Galatians 3:28, we are all one in Christ. In regard to our salvation, we are one in Christ. Someone said that we are all equal at the foot of the cross. While this is true, and we can rejoice in this truth, it is not to be confused with the authority that God established for an order within the family. The simplicity of this order is explained by Paul in 1 Corinthians 11:3. Read this verse and make a diagram that would explain this to someone.

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Lesson 5 7. The best way for some people to remember something is to draw a diagram or sketch that represents a truth. Seeing a visual record of a verse helps some people internalize the message of the passage. Even thinking about the passage and trying to “convert” the words into a picture can help with learning the concepts that have been presented. Please read Galatians 3:23-29 one more time and show the main truths of these verses visually.

8. One of the important elements of Bible study is to learn more about the Lord God, Christ Jesus, and the Holy Spirit. Please turn to the book of Hebrews and read Hebrews 1:1-4 and then Hebrews 2:1-4 and allow these truths to minister to your spirit. Ask God to help you have a grateful heart regarding His love and provision for you His child. You might write out some truths about Jesus, and ask God who He would have you share this information with this week.

In Galatians 3:24,25 Paul taught about the purpose of the law. Read Romans 3:19,20 and Galatians 3:24,25 and then list what Paul said about the law.

While it is certainly true that those who follow Christ are no longer under the law, we are indwelt with the Holy Spirit. Remember what you found in John 16 about the role of the Holy Spirit? God said in Psalm 46:10 that we are to cease striving or be still and know that He is God. When you quiet your spirit and listen to the Lord as you pray, you can hear the conviction of the Holy Spirit. Would you close by taking the time to be still before the Lord and wait upon Him for His direction, and perhaps the conviction of the Holy Spirit? Can you think of a song you might sing as an act of worship before the Lord, or as your closing prayer? 54

Lesson 5

Day 3 - Galatians 3 Review 1. You will spend today reviewing Galatians 3. Some who start to study the Bible inductively find this the part of the lessons that is the most difficult. Because I am so detail focused, this is always hard for me, and I would never attempt this without the in-depth study of the chapter first! Some are more global in their thinking and finding the themes through summary statements is not as difficult. Because I am not a global thinker who can see the “big picture” easily, this portion of the lesson forces me to seek the help of the Holy Spirit, while some have “seen” the theme of the chapter weeks before! If you are like me, know that God will help you as you study. When you work on this, and it will be work, it will help you understand the chapter in a way that you would not otherwise understand. It is always a valuable effort for me to complete the chapter review, and I always enjoy hearing from my “global thinking” friends what they recorded for the summary statements, and what they wrote for their chapter theme! (Of course there are some who skip this section of the lesson and open their study Bible to see what the editors of their Bible chose for the paragraph themes!) However, I challenge you to pray and then approach this part of the lesson, trusting that God will bless you for the time you spend with Him while working on this task! Start by reading Galatians 3 and as you do, determine what are the five main key words in Galatians 3.

2. Before looking at Galatians 3 to find the themes of the paragraphs and the theme or title of the chapter, we will review again some of the means of teaching that have been used in Galatians 3. You already marked the declarative statements for the chapter. Remember these are statements of doctrinal truth or historical narrative. Most of the verses in Galatians 3 are statements of doctrinal truth, hence they are declarative statements. I believe that Paul wrote an admonition to the churches in Galatia in Galatians 3:1a. I read Galatians 3:10b and 3:13b as warnings to the churches. Now read again Galatians 3:26-29 and see if those words of Paul’s encourage you. I labeled that entire paragraph as an exhortation. 3. The goal will now be to reflect back on the message of Galatians 3. Using some of the key words written in the chapter, and especially the five words you listed above, you will now consider a theme for each of the paragraphs you studied in Galatians 3. It might help to write out several summary statements for each section, and then try to limit your statement to no more than five words. List these statements here as well as on page 153 of the Appendix, in the sections for Chapter 3 Summary Statements.

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Lesson 5 Paragraph Summary Statements of Galatians 3 Galatians 3:1-6

Galatians 3:7-9

Galatians 3:10-14

Galatians 3:15-18

Galatians 3:19-22

Galatians 3:23-25

Galatians 3:26-29

4. The next part of the lesson is to ask God to show you the themes for Galatians 3 based on the main points of each paragraph. Is there one theme that the separate paragraph themes would “fit” under? Sometimes you can take some of the key words from the paragraph themes and write those into a theme or title for the chapter. Another reminder to pray and ask for help with this part of the lesson! List your summary statements and title for Galatians 3 on the Theme and Title Chart in the Appendix on page 153. List your title for Galatians 3 here.

5. Are you praising the Lord as you finish the study of Galatians 3? That is worthy of praise! I thank the Lord that you are in the midst of working on Lesson 5! My prayer continues to be that the Scripture you are studying would continue to make a difference in your life. Please close by reading Psalm 131, where the psalmist David wrote about his relationship with his Lord God. Allow this to be your prayer as you close your time of study today. How amazing that we have been set free and we are accepted as God’s dear child. As you read, praise His holy name!

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Lesson 5

Day 4 – Galatians 4, Comprehensive Chapter Study 1. Remember that every time you begin a new chapter you will spend time going through a process called the Comprehensive Chapter Study. The pattern for inductive study would be to observe a chapter and then study the chapter and determine the themes of the chapter before moving on to the next chapter. Open in prayer asking for the Lord’s help and then read the Scripture Worksheets for Galatians 4 paying attention to the key words that are repeated. (You can refer to the Appendix pages 147, 149, and 151 for help with the inductive observation process.) • Mark the key words in Galatians 4. Now is the time to list what is being taught concerning the key words of Galatians 4, by writing a list of what is being stated about the key word when the author used the word. You can place these lists directly on the Scripture Worksheets in the right-hand margin under the heading of the key word, or place your lists on a separate sheet of paper. Then list the five key words from Galatians 4 here.

2. As you read Galatians 4, you can also look for contrasts and comparisons that were used. Refer to Appendix pages 149 and 151, and then write those here in the space provided, or mark your Scripture Worksheets in some way to show these contrasts and comparisons. Contrasts (to show differences/opposites)

Comparisons (to show similarities and connections, using the words as or like)

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Lesson 5 3. Read Galatians 4 looking for the declarative statements. Paul continued with statements of doctrine in this chapter. I see that Galatians 4:1-4 are declarative statements you look and see the others that were written and mark these in some way. You will look for the instructions, exhortations, warnings and admonitions at a later time. 4. Look for terms of expression that help you understand time, with words like “now, then, later,” etc. and mark these in a consistent way. Another means of understanding language is to examine the way verbs are used in writing. A simple explanation of verbs is that they are words that express action or the state of being, and they relate the words communicated within a framework of time. Verbs communicate that something is happening at the moment, or has happened in the past, or will happen in the future. (The verbs in the preceding sentence are in italics.) Verbs can also announce that an event has already taken place and the results of that event are continuing at the present time. Please take the time to read Galatians 4 looking for the different verb tenses that were used, noting in the left hand margin references to the future, the present, or the past. This can add another dimension to your study, not because you will be studying verbs, but this will help you see what God has done in the past, what He is doing in your life today, as well as show you what the future holds. 5. Mark words that express conclusion or show results or purpose with words like “for,” “for this reason,” “so that,” and “because.” Words that express conclusion are important to note because they show why the author wrote what he wrote and help you see the promises or consequences that will come. 6. Did you see a truth in Galatians 4 that the Lord wants you to focus upon? Was there a word that caused you to think about your own life and lifestyle? How has this portion of Scripture ministered to you today?

A Memorization Challenge! Please choose a verse from Galatians 4 and read the verse every day to help you remember the wording. Write out the verse here, including the reference.

Now please close by praying through the verse you have chosen and make it very personal to yourself and where you are in your life today. 58

Lesson 5

Day 5 – The Fruit of the Spirit - Patience 1. I was praying about this lesson focusing on the fruit of the Spirit, patience. I will share the prayer that I spoke and you might want to make this your prayer before starting on this part of the lesson. “Father God, I need to know You more, and I need to understand myself, so I can understand why I become impatient with others. I thank You Lord that I have been crucified with Christ Jesus my Savior. I thank You Lord that You have given me the Holy Spirit to guide me into Your truth, and that You have given me the truth so that I am set free from the sins that enslave me. I pray that Your holy word will renew my mind, and transform my spirit. In Jesus precious name I pray, Amen.” Now begin with these observation questions. • The word used for patience in Galatians 5:22 is the Greek word that relates to having patience with people, rather than the Greek word that relates to having patience with circumstances. When you studied the fruit of the Spirit of love, you read Paul’s account in 1 Corinthians 13. 1 Corinthians 13:5 says that love is not provoked. What causes you to become provoked or impatient with others? Before you answer this question, you might want to read the following responses I received when I asked this question of several people. “I am impatient with people when my expectations are not met by someone’s behavior.” “I become impatient when someone is being disrespectful toward me.” “I become impatient when my children are disobedient.” “I realized recently that I was being impatient with someone because I had a root of bitterness toward that person that I had not acknowledged, confessed, and surrendered to the Lord.” Now think about this issue of impatience and the last time you were impatient with someone. Why did you respond in the way that you did? Pray and with a quiet heart, ask God to show you what causes you to be impatient with others.

•

A very interesting aspect of the Greek word for patience described as a fruit of the Spirit is that this is the patience that God has with us. This word is associated with mercy. When studying the nature of God’s mercy in the Old Testament, I will never forget this definition. God’s mercy involves Him looking at us in the midst of our sin and yet having compassion on us. The heart of God wants us to repent of our sin, change our thinking, and change our future behavior. Please read these two Scriptures to see what Paul and Peter said about this same word patience, or patient as it relates to God. a. Romans 2:4

b. 2 Peter 3:9

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Lesson 5 •

2.

Now please read John 16:7-11 to see another role of the Holy Spirit. Write this out on your sheet from the Appendix on the nature and role of the Holy Spirit, and think about what this can mean to you today. Please examine this word study for the key word used in today’s passage.

Strong’s # and Transliteration:

Definition from Strong’s Concordance, unless written in italics:

Use of the word in other Scriptures:

3115 makrothumia makrothumia Galatians 5:22

Patience, longanimity, i.e. (objectively) forbearance or (subjectively) fortitude, longsuffering KJV. A self-restraint of mind before it gives room to action or passion. Patience in regard to people (who have brought hardship or injury) rather than circumstances.11

Colossians 1:11

3. Paul commented in 2 Corinthians 6:1-10 about the attitude and behavior of those who were serving others. The word for patience used in Galatians 5:22 appears in verse 6. Look at this passage to see why a lifestyle with these attitudes is important.

Now look at the instructions Paul gave Timothy about his role in the church in 2 Timothy 4:2. How was Timothy to carry out his role?

4. Jesus spoke of His followers having an attitude of patience in a parable recorded in Matthew 18:21-35. Look at verses 26 and 29 to see a form of the same word you have studied today. What is the message Jesus shared when Peter asked Him about forgiveness?

How did Jesus model this teaching on forgiveness according to 1 Timothy 1:15,16?

Continued on the next page.

11

Ibid., p. 934. 60

Lesson 5 Who do you know who manifests the fruit of the Spirit of patience? Would you take the time to affirm that person with a note or phone call to encourage them in their walk with the Lord? This would acknowledge that you have noticed their patient attitude toward others.

I remember years ago I was challenged to spend time in prayer asking God to help me see if there was anyone I had not forgiven. I prayed and the names of several people came to my mind that I had not realized I needed to forgive. I prayed for each of these individuals, specifically naming the person and silently forgiving the person for the offense they had caused. When you ask the Lord to convict you of any sin that you have not dealt with, the Holy Spirit will show you what you have not yet acknowledged. What an incredible sense of freedom comes when you confess your sin while trusting Christ to cleanse you from all unrighteousness. You might want to try this same experience. Thank the Lord for the conviction of the Holy Spirit and quietly allow God’s truth to permeate your spirit. God is patient with me, who am I to not be patient with someone else? Another definition of the word for patience is someone who has the “power to avenge himself, yet refrains from the exercise of this power.”12 We are to be patient with others, but does this mean that you say nothing by using self-restraint when someone you are close to does something that does not honor God? I make an effort to live by the standard of Ephesians 4:15, to always speak the truth in love, to not be provoked, but to be patient. I guess the expression that comes to mind that would be the opposite of being patient with others would be to not “blow my top” when someone hurts or wrongs me. I am thankful that my dear friend has reminded me of my spiritual condition, that I am crucified, and it is not me who lives, but it is Christ who lives in me. And so, to those who have been chosen of God, holy and beloved, put on a heart of compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience, Colossians 3:12. You might close by singing this hymn proclaiming God’s marvelous grace as your testimony of faith in Him. “Grace Greater Than Our Sin” Marvelous grace of our loving Lord, grace that exceeds our sin and our guilt! Yonder on Calvary’s mount outpoured-There where the blood of the Lamb was spilt. Chorus: Grace, grace, God’s grace, grace that will pardon and cleanse within, grace, grace, God’s grace, grace that is greater than all our sin. By Julia H. Johnston and Daniel B. Towner, 1910.

12

Spiros Zodhiates, The Hebrew-Greek Key Study Bible, Chattanooga, AMG Publishers, 1990, p. 1853. 61

Lesson 6

Lesson 6 – Galatians 4:1-20 and Kindness Introduction This week’s lesson will continue to focus on Galatians 4 as well as the fruit of the Spirit, kindness. When you spent time on the Comprehensive Chapter Study I imagine you had questions about this chapter! My prayer is that some of your questions about Galatians 4 will be answered this week, and that you will see the message of the chapter more clearly. Have you memorized Galatians 5:22,23? You might review these verses and continue with your commitment to allow the Lord to demonstrate these qualities in your life every day, as you walk with Him. You might write out Galatians 5:22,23 here before you begin.

Days 1 and 2 – Galatians 4:1-11 1. In the next two days you will study the first two paragraphs of Galatians 4. Open by asking the Holy Spirit to help you see how these two paragraphs can minister to your spirit, and then complete these observation questions. • If you did not mark the words child and children in some way, please do this now. I drew a little stick figure of a child over the word child and two figures over the word children! •

In the first lesson you might have taken the time to mark direct references to the recipients throughout the book of Galatians. Please notice the way Paul addressed the recipients in Galatians 4, and write these phrases here.

•

When a paragraph begins like Galatians 4:1, you must go back to the paragraph that came before. Please notice the verb tenses used with the key words children and child in Galatians 3:26 through Galatians 4. What does Paul say that it means to be God’s child or one of God’s children according to these verses?

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Lesson 6

2.

•

When a family wants to adopt a child in the United States, the legal system of the state where they reside becomes involved in the process. According to Galatians 4:17 how does the law relate to your adoption as one of God’s children?

•

Paul shared several admonishments in today’s paragraphs. What did Paul say should make a difference in their behavior and what did Paul accuse the Galatian churches of doing?

•

What feeling or emotion did Paul express toward the people of Galatia in Galatians 4:1-11? Please examine these word studies for some of the key words used in this passage.

Strong’s # and Transliteration:

Definition from Strong’s Concordance, unless written in italics:

Use of the word in other Scriptures:

5206 huiothesia huiothesian Galatians 4:5

Adoption, the placing as a son, i.e. adoption, (figuratively, Christian sonship in respect to God): adoption (of children, of sons). Refers to males and females. Abba, of Chaldean (background), father, used as a vocative (an expression of greeting). An Aramaic word, used by Jesus when He addressed His Father.

Used five times in the New Testament. Ephesians 1:5

5 Abba Abba Galatians 4:6

Used three times in the New Testament. Mark 14:36 Romans 8:15

3. Did you mark the word slave or slaves in some way? Please do that now if you have not already done so. Now read through the verses where Paul taught about the word slave or slaves, and then summarize what Paul taught about slavery in Galatians 4:1-11.

More space is provided on the next page. 64

Lesson 6

4. The Greek word that Paul used for adoption was only used five times in the New Testament. The word study in Question 2 looked at this word and its cross-reference in Ephesians 1:5. Now will you please read the portion of Romans were Paul used the word adoption two times. Paul’s teaching about this starting in Romans 8:12 and goes through Romans 8:25. Then read Romans 9:1-5 and stop to meditate on this theme of adoption. What did Paul teach about adoption?

5. You can see in the book of Galatians that Paul knew the people he was writing to and he shared his concerns openly. What did Paul mean by the phrase “the powerless and bankrupt basic principles” in Galatians 4:9? Look at the two questions Paul asked in this same paragraph. What did Paul mean by observing “days, months, season, and years?” In Paul’s writing to the people of Colossae, Paul made similar references as he did in Galatians 4. Please take the time to read Colossians 2:8-23 and summarize Paul’s concern as it relates to Galatians 4:9,10. As you read these verses, consider what Paul meant by the question of being a slave to these things.

6. In a class that I took focusing on the history of Christianity, I was asked in a midterm exam to explain what Paul meant by the phrase “in the fullness of time,” from Galatians 4:4,5. I have included my answer in the Appendix, on page 159. Studying these two verses in Galatians 4 helped me understand the sovereignty of God and His provision for all of those who call Him Abba! Father! Please write a brief response to this “commentary” on Galatians 4:4,5.

Continued on the next page.

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Lesson 6 The author of Hebrews wrote concerning the nation of Israel’s relationship with God that had been changed by the new covenant in Jesus the Messiah. Please read the comparison made in Hebrews 9:1-15 between the old way of worshiping and God’s redemption and the new way in Christ. How would you share this truth about Christ with someone else? Would you pray asking God for the name of someone you might share with before the end of this study of Galatians? Briefly summarize the comparison made in Hebrews 9.

As you close your time in the word today, allow these truths from Hebrews to encourage your spirit with what God has done on your behalf. Close by praying with a heart of gratitude for the love that God has for you.

Days 3 and 4 – Galatians 4:12-20 1. You might have written some question marks in the margin of today’s paragraphs as I did when I began this study! Open in prayer asking God to help you learn what he wants you to learn from the passage you will be studying in the next two days, and then begin with these observation questions. • According to Galatians 4:12-16, what did Paul acknowledge about the people of Galatia when he first brought the gospel to them?

•

Now you will study those who had put the Galatians people under a spell. Read the following verses for a look at the mention Paul made of those who were disturbing the Galatian people. What did Paul say about these people in these verses? a. Galatians 1:6,7 b. Galatians 3:1 c. Galatians 4:17

d. Galatians 5:7-12

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Lesson 6 e. Galatians 6:12,13

How would you summarize what Paul wrote about “these people” in his letter?

2.

•

Those who were troubling the churches of Galatia were later called Judaizers. These people called themselves Ebionites, from the Hebrew word that meant to be poor or to take on poverty, as those who were poor in spirit. These people accepted only the gospel of Matthew and they rejected Paul, calling him an apostate from the law. They expounded the (Old Testament) prophetic writings with exactness. As Hebrews they were circumcised and they sought to maintain the Hebrew customs or traditions according to the Law. They even worshipped the city of Jerusalem.13 The Judaizers taught and focused upon Moses and the law given to Moses. They put Moses and the law above Abraham and the promises given to Abraham.

•

Scripture often contains the literary device of metaphors. In this the author implies a comparison between two different things, or uses a figure of speech in which a word or phrase that ordinarily means one thing is applied to another to suggest a likeness between the two.14 What was the metaphor used in Galatians 4:19 and what did Paul want to see in the people?

Please examine these word studies for some of the key words used in this passage.

Strong’s # and Transliteration:

Definition from Strong’s Concordance, unless written in italics:

Use of the word in other Scriptures:

32 angelos angelon Galatians 4:14

Angel, a messenger, especially an angel, by implication, a pastor

Matthew 11:10

2206 zeloo zelousin Galatians 4:17 Galatians 4:18

Devoted ISV, eagerly sought NASB, to have warmth of feeling for or against, covet (earnestly) (have) desire, (move with) envy, be jealous over…

James 4:2b

13 14

Henry Bettenson, Documents of the Christian Church, London, Oxford Press, 1963, p. 37. Clarence L. and Robert K. Barnhart, editors, The World Book Dictionary, Chicago, World Book, Inc. 1985, p. 1304. 67

Lesson 6 Strong’s # and Transliteration:

Definition from Strong’s Concordance, unless written in italics:

Use of the word in other Scriptures:

3445 morphoo morphothe Galatians 4:19

Formed, to fashion. Originally of artists who shape their material into an image.15

Hapax legomen, the phrase that means this is the only place this word is used in the New Testament.

3. In lesson 2 you studied Paul’s background and his ministry. Think about what Paul had in common with the Gentiles of the churches in Galatia that led him to write Galatians 4:12.

4. What circumstances were involved with Paul bringing the gospel to the churches of Galatia? In the midst of an unfortunate circumstance, it is easy to focus on the negative dimension of a situation, and miss God’s perspective. When Christ was on earth He did not heal everyone who was living in Israel, and sometimes God allows His precious children to suffer. Read Peter’s comments on suffering in 1 Peter 2:20-25, and consider what is to be our perspective on suffering?

Please read these other statements that express truth about the Lord. What is said about the Lord in these verses and what is taught about the sovereignty of God? a. Isaiah 45:7 (in words spoken to Cyrus, the Medo-Persian king who overthrew Babylon in 539 B.C. and freed the Jews from their exile)16

b. Romans 8:28

How would you summarize the verses given in question 4 as they relate to what Paul shared about himself in Galatians 4:13,14?

15 16

Zodhiates, Ibid., p. 937. Ibid., p. 954.

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Lesson 6 5. In Galatians 4:14 Paul talked about his welcome among the people in Galatia. At a later time, the author of Hebrews was giving practical instructions to the Hebrew people and wrote about the way believers were to relate to “strangers,” in Hebrews 13:1,2. What were the followers of Christ asked to do here?

6. Paul modeled a concern for the body of Christ in the Galatian churches. You have seen from Paul’s writings that the followers in Galatia needed admonishment because they were listening to a “different gospel.” Their attitude had changed toward the truth that Paul had brought to them. Their attitude had changed toward Paul, who brought them God’s truth. Have you ever acknowledged the blessing you have received from those who have brought you God’s truth? You might write a letter to your pastor expressing your gratitude for his faithful preaching of God’s word. If you have a minister of Christian education in your church, have you ever acknowledged the effort they make to assure that God’s word is handled carefully? Perhaps you have never sat under teaching that did not line up with the word of God and you have never experienced what it is like to be pulled away from your faith and from the truth of the Lord. Would you take the time to express your gratitude to those in spiritual authority over you? Perhaps there is something in your life that pulls you away from the truth of Christ. It might not be obvious to you at first, but would you quiet yourself before the Lord and ask Him this question? If there is something that pulls you away from the truth, will you ask the Lord what are you to do about this?

7. Can you imagine Paul praying, “Lord I want You to use my illness so that others will come to know You.” Isn’t that what God actually did in Paul’s life? Please read Paul’s testimony of his thorn in the flesh in 2 Corinthians 12. While 2 Corinthians 12:7-9 is often quoted, many fail to see these verses in their context. Please read 2 Corinthians 12:1-10 to see the context of Paul’s testimony. Why was he given an affliction? What did Paul acknowledge about the Lord and Christ in this passage? What difference did that make in Paul’s life?

You might be facing an issue in your life that has caused you to suffer. Our human response to suffering is to ask the Lord to take the source of our suffering away. Is there something in your life now that you would just as soon not have in your life? Have you prayed that God would take this away from you? If it is God’s will for this to continue, would you pray that God would use this circumstance to bring Him honor and glory? What do others see when we are allowed to suffer? What fruit of the Spirit can be evident as you suffer? Continued on the next page.

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Lesson 6 Remember the definition of spiritual formation from Dr. Mulholland’s book given on the first page of Lesson 1? I thought of Dr. Mulholland’s definition when I read Galatians 4:19. I have chosen to follow this every day of my life, to be “in the process of being conformed to the image of Christ for the sake of others.”17 Is it always easy? No it is not. There are events, people, and circumstances that get in the way of me following this standard. What gets in the way of you desiring to be in the process of being conformed to the image of Christ?

Monica, the mother of Augustine watched her son live in sinful disobedience for many years. How painful it was for her to know that her son was not honoring God with his life. Monica prayed for years for her son’s salvation, and she asked countless people to pray with her. Eventually Monica’s prayers were answered and after Augustine became a follower of Christ, he wrote that his mother’s pain during his time of disobedience was greater than the pain she had experienced during his actual birth. Do you have an ache within you because someone you love is not living a life of obedience to the Lord? You might be discouraged because perhaps you have prayed and prayed and their heart is still not soft toward Christ. You might consider asking someone to pray with you on behalf of your loved one. In joining with another you will probably find that they have a loved one they have been praying for as well, and they would also welcome your intercession. You might close by singing the first verse of John Newton’s incredible hymn, “Amazing Grace.” “Amazing Grace” Amazing grace, how sweet the sound, that saved a wretch like me! I once was lost, but now am found, was blind but now I see. By John Newton

Day 5 – The Fruit of the Spirit - Kindness 1. As you have studied the fruit of the Spirit, you might see how these qualities overlap and intertwine with others. This is especially true in the fruit you are looking at today, the fruit of kindness, translated as gentleness in the KJV. Open your time in prayer and then begin with these observation questions. • God’s desire for His children is that they walk with Him, to live in obedience to Him, to express love toward Him, and to love others. One way that we can express our love for others is to be kind toward people. The word translated as kindness in Galatians 5:22 was only used eight times in the entire New Testament. Look at these references from Romans that will deepen your understanding of the word kindness. a. Romans 2:4a (this verse was also in Lesson 5, because it includes the word patience)

17

M. Robert Mulholland Jr., Invitation to a Journey, Downers Grove, IL, InterVarsity Press, 1993, p. 12. 70

Lesson 6 b. Romans 3:12 (the Greek word chrestos in this verse is generally translated as good)

c. Romans 11:22 (referring to Gentiles being grafted in to the branch)

2.

•

Now look at how the word kindness was used in Colossians 3:12 to see what is asked of those who follow after Christ.

•

Please read how Jesus described the Holy Spirit in John 16:13-15, and jot down these truths on the Holy Spirit sheet in the Appendix. As you write out these truths, thank the Lord for His gift of the Holy Spirit to you today.

Please examine these word studies for the key word used in today’s lesson.

Strong’s # and Transliteration:

Definition from Strong’s Concordance, unless written in italics:

Use of the word in other Scriptures:

2617 heced Psalm 136

Lovingkindness, kindness, by implication (towards God) piety, rarely (by opp.) reproof, or (subjectively) beauty, favour, good deed merciful, mercy, covenant love

Many think this is one of the most important words in the Old Testament. Psalm 117:2 (my daughter painted the words of Psalm 117 on my kitchen wall!)

5544 chrestotes chrestotes Galatians 5:22

Kindness, usefulness, i.e. moral excellence (in character or demeanor): gentleness KJV, good (-ness). It is the grace that pervades the whole nature, mellowing all which would have been harsh and austere.18

Titus 3:4 (allow the truth of this verse to encourage you!)

3.

How did God demonstrate His kindness according to Ephesians 2:7?

4. What does it mean to be God’s servant? One dimension of serving God involves serving others. One question you might ask of yourself would be “What is my motive for serving?” Is your motive for serving to gain man’s approval or to demonstrate your love for God? In 2 Corinthians 6:6, Paul used the same word, kindness. You looked at this passage 18

Zodhiates, Ibid., p. 967. 71

Lesson 6 in Lesson 5 when you studied patience, however, please read this again noting Paul’s passion for being a servant of God. 5.

If kindness is characterized by being useful, how do you define what is useful?

I thought of the Greek word agape, and how this word is used in Scripture. This love involves caring for others and wanting God’s very best for them, even though this might not necessarily be what they want for themselves. Please review the definition of the word kindness from Question 2. How would you live out this quality in your life as you relate to others? How can you show kindness to someone today? How can you show kindness to someone this next week? Can you be kind to others if you are self absorbed or self-centered? Don’t you just love yes or no questions? When was the last time you got in the way of showing kindness to another?

When was the last time you claimed the truth that you have been crucified with Christ, and you laid yourself aside and acted in kindness toward someone who had a need?

Who do you know who manifests the fruit of the Spirit of kindness? Would you take the time to affirm that person with a note or phone call to encourage them in their walk with the Lord? This would acknowledge that you have noticed their kindness toward others. Please close by reading Psalm 136 as the psalmist declared “God’s lovingkindness is everlasting.” While the psalm praises God for His faithfulness to Israel, as you read this Psalm allow God’s holy word to penetrate your spirit, that you might agree with what has been said about the Lord in these words. If you know the chorus, “Thy Lovingkindness” you might sing this song as an act of worship before the Lord.

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Lesson 7 – Galatians 4:21-31 and Goodness Introduction This week’s lesson will focus on the end of Galatians 4, the review of Galatians 4, the Comprehensive Chapter Study of Galatians 5, and the fruit of the Spirit, goodness. The apostle Paul used another portion of the Hebrew Scriptures to instruct his audience concerning their faith. As you study the book of Galatians allow the Holy Spirit to teach, reprove, correct and train you in God’s righteousness. The work of the Holy Spirit might involve you committing a verse or passage to memory this week. Trust God to provide what you need to treasure His word in your heart. God longs for you to spend time with Him.

Days 1 and 2 - Galatians 4:21-31 1. As you open in prayer to begin the study for the next two days, ask God to help you see the message that the Holy Spirit directed Paul to write. It is always a temptation to slip into studying Scripture as an academic exercise. God would have you spend time in His holy word that you might be complete and thoroughly equipped for every good work. After reading Galatians 4:21-31, answer these observation questions. • How did Paul address his audience in today’s paragraphs? •

Read Galatians 4:21-31 again marking the key words in the passage and listing them here.

•

Did you mark the words slave, slaves, or slavery in some way? Please do that now if you have not already done so. Now read through the verses where Paul used the words slave, slaves, or slavery and then summarize this teaching from Galatians 4.

•

An allegory provides a symbolic picture or representation, where the author speaks of something under other terms. In the first century some scholars considered the Hebrew Scriptures to be allegorical. As time passed, Christian schools were formed that took a more allegorical interpretation of the Old Testament, rather than taking the Scripture literally. In Paul’s writing he takes a literal interpretation of the sacred writings of the Hebrew Scriptures, but in Galatians 4:22-31 the Holy Spirit also directed Paul to interpret portions of Genesis allegorically. 73

Lesson 7 •

Please read Genesis 16 and record what you learn about the individuals involved in this narrative. a. Sarai (later named Sarah):

b. Abram (later named Abraham):

c. Hagar:

d. The angel of the Lord:

e. Ishmael:

f. The Lord God:

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•

Abraham and his family came from Ur, and the legal custom in the Chaldeans provided for a barren woman to give her husband her hand-maiden so that she might give birth to an heir if the husband was agreeable and willing to accept the child. In the culture of the ancient near east slaves were included as a member of one’s family, but slaves had very few personal rights. For Sarai and Abram to follow this legal custom made sense, but according to Genesis 16, what problems came about because of their plan?

•

In Galatians 4:21-31, what did Paul say the two women represent?

•

How did Paul say the Christians in Galatia were to consider themselves according to Galatians 4:28?

•

According to Galatians 4:31, what is the lineage of those who are brothers (and sisters) in Christ?

Lesson 7 2.

Guess what? There are no word studies for these two days of study!

3.

Please record what God promised to Abraham in Genesis 17:1-5.

4. Now look at what God declared to Abraham about his two sons in Genesis 17:15-27 and how Abraham responded. a. Ishmael:

b. Isaac:

5.

Briefly record your observations of Genesis 21:1-8.

6. What promise did God make concerning Ishmael, and how did God provide for Hagar and Ishmael according to Genesis 21:9-21?

7. What are the contrasts shared in Galatians 4:21-31? Keeping in mind what you have studied in Genesis, read Galatians 4:21-31 and Romans 9:6-9 to answer these questions: Women:

Abraham had two sons by:

Children born according to:

Covenants:

Sarah Hagar

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Lesson 7 8. I know you have already read Galatians 5, but please read Galatians 5:1 in light of the paragraphs you have just studied. Write out the truth of Galatians 5:1 here.

What did Paul say about persecution in Galatians 4:28-31? What does this teaching on persecution say to you personally?

In the book of Hebrews, the new covenant was explained. Please read Hebrews 9:13-15 and jot down the information shared about the new covenant. (Notice also that in 9:14, all three persons of the trinity are mentioned.)

In Galatians 4:27, Paul quoted from Isaiah 54:1. Please end by reading this prophecy given to the nation of Israel, in the context of Isaiah 54, then record God’s promise to His people in Isaiah 54:5-10.

Meditate on the truth you’ve discovered in the last two days, and perhaps you can think of a song or hymn you might lift before the Lord as an act of worship to Him.

Day 3 - Galatians 4 Review 1. You will spend today reviewing Galatians 4. Some would rather skip over this part of the inductive study because it is hard to determine the themes of the chapter! The only way I can do this is by praying, continually asking God the Holy Spirit for help. Then please read Galatians 4 one more time and proceed. Start by looking over Galatians 4 and as you do determine what are the five main key words in Galatians 4.

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Lesson 7 2. Now we will review again some of the means of teaching that have been used in Galatians 4. You already looked at the declarative statements for the chapter. Remember these are statements of doctrinal truth or historical narrative. Many of the verses in Galatians 4 are statements of doctrinal truth, hence they are declarative statements. I believe that Paul wrote an admonition to the churches in Galatia in Galatians 4:911. I think that Galatians 4:17b-20 and 4:31 are exhortations. Mark these in some way. 3. The goal will now be to reflect back on the message of Galatians 4. Look at your Scripture Worksheets and your lists of the declarative statements, exhortations, warnings, and admonitions from this chapter. Using some of the key words written in the text, you will now consider a theme for each of the sections you studied in this chapter. It might help to write out several summary statements for each section, and then try to limit your statement to no more than five words, and list these statements here as well as on page 153 of the Appendix, in the sections for Chapter 4 Summary Statements. Paragraph Summary Statements of Galatians 4 Galatians 4:1-7

Galatians 4:8-11

Galatians 4:12-16

Galatians 4:17-20

Galatians 4:21-27

Galatians 4:28-31

4. The next part of the lesson is to ask God to show you the theme for Galatians 4 based on the main points of each paragraph. Is there one theme that the separate paragraph themes would “fit” under? Sometimes you can take some of the key words from the paragraph themes and write those into a theme or title for the chapter. Pray and ask for help with this part of the lesson, and then read through these paragraph themes you listed. Now list your summary statements and title for Galatians 4 on the Theme and Title Chart in the Appendix on page 153. List your title for Galatians 4 here. 5. My prayer continues to be that these words in Galatians, written so long ago would be very practical in your life today. Please close by reading Psalm 85 as a prayer for revival in your own heart and on behalf of our nation. 77

Lesson 7

Day 4 – Galatians 5, Comprehensive Chapter Study 1. Today you will spend time going through the Comprehensive Chapter Study for Galatians 5. Open in prayer asking for the Lord’s help and then read the Scripture Worksheets for Galatians 5 paying attention to the key words that are repeated. You can refer to the Appendix pages 147, 149, and 151 for help with the inductive observation process. • Mark the key words in Galatians 5. Now is the time to list what is being taught concerning the key words of Galatians 5, by writing a list of what is being stated about the key word when the author used the word. You can place these lists directly on the Scripture Worksheets in the right-hand margin under the heading of the key word, or place your lists on a separate sheet of paper. 2. As you read Galatians 5, you can also look for contrasts and comparisons that were used. Refer to Appendix pages 149 and 151, and then write those here in the space provided, or mark your Scripture Worksheets in some way to show these contrasts and comparisons. Contrasts (to show differences/opposites)

Comparisons (to show similarities and connections, using the words as or like)

3. Read Galatians 5 looking for the declarative statements. Paul continued with statements of doctrine in this chapter. I see that Galatians 5:1 and 5:6 are declarative statements. You look and see the others that were written and mark these in some way. You will look for the instructions, exhortations, warnings and admonitions at a later time.

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Lesson 7 4. Look for terms of expression that help you understand time, with words like “now, then, later,” etc. and mark these in a consistent way. Another means of understanding language is to examine the way verbs are used in writing. A simple explanation of verbs is that they are words that express action or the state of being, and they relate the words communicated within a framework of time. Verbs communicate that something is happening at the moment, or has happened in the past, or will happen in the future. (The verbs in the preceding sentence are in italics.) Verbs can also announce that an event has already taken place and the results of that event are continuing at the present time. Please take the time to read Galatians 5 looking for the different verb tenses that were used, noting in the left hand margin references to the future, the present, or the past. This can add another dimension to your study, not because you will be studying verbs, but this will help you see what God has done in the past, what He is doing in your life today, as well as show you what the future holds. 5. Mark words that express conclusion or show results or purpose with words like “for,” “for this reason,” “so that,” and “because.” Words that express conclusion are important to note because they show why the author wrote what he wrote and help you see the promises or consequences that will come. 6. Did you see a truth in Galatians 5 that the Lord wants you to focus upon? Was there a word that caused you to think about your own life and lifestyle? How have these words of Scripture ministered to you today?

Now please close by praying through the verse you have chosen and make it very personal to where you are in your life today.

Day 5 – The Fruit of the Spirit - Goodness 1. The word chosen for goodness in Galatians 5:22 was used in the Greek translation of Psalm 27:13. Open your time today by reading Psalm 27:11-14 as a prayer before the Lord, and then answer these observation questions. • What was said about God’s goodness in Psalm 27:13 and what difference did that make to the psalmist David?

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2.

•

Another psalm speaks of God’s goodness. Please read Psalm 31:19 and consider who will receive the promise of God’s goodness.

•

What will bring satisfaction according to Psalm 65:4? Is that true for you? Do you testify of God’s faithfulness and His goodness to you?

•

Biblical scholars have said that the word goodness denotes generosity. How have the Psalms that were studied today confirmed that interpretation of God’s nature?

•

The very goodness of God can be seen in the promise that Jesus made to His followers in John 16:14. Please write out this promise and meditate on what this can mean to you.

Please examine these word studies for the key words used in today’s lesson.

Strong’s # and Transliteration:

Definition from Strong’s Concordance, unless written in italics:

Use of the word in other Scriptures:

2896 towb Psalm 64:5

Good, as an adjective, a good thing, a good man or woman; the good, goods, or good things, good men or women; as an adverb, well, beautiful, best, better, bountiful, cheerful, at ease, fair (word), (be in), favour, fine, glad… Also used for moral goodness. Goodness, virtue, or beneficence. This is character energized, expressing itself in good.19 “Moral and spiritual excellence.”20

Psalm 37:3

19 agathosune agathosune Galatians 5:22

Used four times in the New Testament. Romans 15:14 (mark this for later)

3. You will now look at the three other places the word goodness was used in the New Testament. What does this mean to those who follow after Christ? a. Romans 15:14

19

Spiros Zodhiates, The Complete Word Study New Testament, p. 878. John MacArthur, Galatians, Chicago, Moody Press, 1987, p. 168. 80 20

Lesson 7 b. Ephesians 5:9

c. 2 Thessalonians 1:11

4. Now please read Galatians 6:10 to see how Paul used a different form of the same word (goodness) that was used in Galatians 5:22. (Galatians 6:9 used a different word for good that will be looked at in a later lesson.)

5. The word used for kindness in Galatians 5:22 comes with the sense of mellowness, where as the word goodness you are looking at today may be expressed through a zeal for goodness and truth in rebuking, correcting, and chastising. Christ’s righteous indignation in the temple gives us a picture of His goodness, not His kindness.21 Who do you know who manifests the fruit of the Spirit of goodness? Would you take the time to affirm that person with a note or phone call to encourage them in their walk with the Lord? This would acknowledge that you have noticed their attitude of goodness toward others. I was so blessed by reading Psalm 37 as I studied the use of the word good in the Old Testament. You might consider closing with Psalm 37:3, which used the same word for good as the other Psalms you have studied today. If you have the time, read the entire Psalm, or at least verses 1-11 and 37-40. What does this call you to do?

Continued on the next page.

21

Spiros Zodhiates, The Hebrew-Greek Key Study Bible, Chattanaooga, AMG Publishers, 1990, p. 1796. 81

Lesson 7 You might close by singing “Come Thou Fount,” noticing how the word goodness is used in the third verse. “Come Thou Fount” Come, Thou fount of ev’ry blessing, turn my heart to sing Thy grace; streams of mercy, never ceasing, call for songs of loudest praise. Teach me some melodious sonnet sung by flaming tongues above; praise the mount, I’m fixed upon it, mount of Thy redeeming love. O to grace how great a debtor daily I’m constrained to be! Let Thy goodness like a fetter bind my wand’ring heart to Thee. Prone to wander - Lord, I feel it - prone to leave the God I love; here’s my heart O take and seal it, seal it for Thy courts above. By Robert Robinson and John Wyeth.

How has God, the Holy Spirit spoken to you this week through His holy word?

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Lesson 8 – Galatians 5:1-21 and Faithfulness Introduction This week’s lesson will focus on Galatians 5:1-21 and the fruit of the Spirit, faithfulness. Important truth was taught in this week’s portion of Scripture. This week you will look at the themes of freedom, circumcision, relating to others, and the deeds of the flesh. Next week’s lesson will examine the fruit of the Spirit in the context of Galatians 5! As you begin this week’s lesson, you have only three more lessons to study. Remember the goal you set in Lesson 1? You were asked to consider the greatest obstacle that might arise that would keep you from completing these lessons. As you open pray that you might stand firm in the goal the Lord helped you establish weeks ago, and ask the Lord to strengthen you against any obstacle that is present these weeks that would keep you from making progress. Thank the Lord that He is faithful and He delights in His children spending time with Him in His holy word.

Days 1 and 2 – Galatians 5:1-12 1. In the next two days, you will be studying Galatians 5:1-12. Please open in prayer asking that Christ will be made known to you through this passage of Galatians. One of the roles of the Holy Spirit is to glorify Christ. A simple way of defining the word glory is to say that it provides a correct estimate of someone. This is one of the roles of the Holy Spirit, to provide a correct estimate of Christ through your time in the word. I thank the Lord for this provision He has made for His children. Now begin with these observation questions. • Paul opened Galatians 5 with a declarative statement. What has Christ done and what does this mean to His followers?

•

Paul gave two commands in Galatians 5:1. What were the Galatians asked to do?

•

A simple definition of a biblical warning is when the author directed a certain behavior and gave the recompense if this was not followed. Write out the warnings of today’s passage, in two parts, first list the warning, and then the consequence for disobedience. The Consequence for Disobedience: The Warning: a. Galatians 5:2

b. Galatians 5:10

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2.

•

Look at how Paul’s reference to the Holy Spirit in Galatians 5:5 introduces a key teaching about circumcision in Galatians 5:6. Now read Galatians 6:15 and answer these two questions. What did Paul say matters and what does not matter? What matters: What Does Not Matter:

•

What did Paul say believers are waiting for in Galatians 5:5?

•

How did Paul use the example of yeast in Galatians 5:9?

•

How did Paul share his confidence in the churches of Galatia in Galatians 5:10?

•

What a statement Paul made in Galatians 5:12! You studied the life of Paul in Lesson 2. Please take a moment and reflect on Paul’s character and his personality, and jot down five words that describe the apostle Paul.

Please examine these word studies for some of the key words used in this passage.

Strong’s # and Transliteration:

Definition from Strong’s Concordance, unless written in italics:

Use of the word in other Scriptures:

1657 eleutheria eleutheria Galatians 5:1

Freedom, (legitimate or licentious, chiefly, moral or certain), liberty. From 1658 unrestrained, to go at pleasure, i.e. as a citizen, not as a slave, exempt from obligation or liability, free (man or woman), at liberty Circumcised, to cut around, circumcised, those who were circumcised came to be known as the Jewish or Hebrew people.

Galatians 2:4

4059 peritemno peritmethenai Galatians 5:2,3

Galatians 5:13 This word was studied on page 29. Galatians 5:6 Galatians 5:11

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Lesson 8 Strong’s # and Transliteration:

Definition from Strong’s Concordance, unless written in italics:

Use of the word in other Scriptures:

203 akrobustia akrobustias Galatians 5:6

Uncircumcised, by implication, gentile, figuratively, unregenerate state or person, not circumcised, uncircumcision. Those outside of the nation of Israel. Faith, believing, persuasion, i.e. credence, moral conviction (or religious truth or the truthfulness of God or a religious teacher) especially reliance upon Christ for salvation; abstract, constancy in such profession; by extension, the system of religious (gospel) truth itself; assurance, belief, fidelity Grace, graciousness, (as gratifying), of manner or act (abstract or concrete, literally, figuratively, or spiritually: especially the divine influence upon the heart, and its reflection in the life; including gratitude): acceptable, benefit, favour, gift, joy, liberality, pleasure, thank (-s, -worthy)

This word was also studied on page 29. Galatians 6:15

4102 pistis pistis Galatians 5:6

5485 charis charin Galatians 2:9,21

Hebrews 11:1

This word was studied on page 29. Galatians 5:4

Galatians 6:18

3. Did you mark the words circumcision and uncircumcision in Galatians 5? When you mark these words you can see that these are key words in the chapter as well as in the entire book of Galatians. Remember that the Jewish Christians, who were later named Judaizers, focused on circumcision, the Law given by Moses, and the writings of the (Old Testament) prophets. The sign of God’s covenant with Israel was circumcision and these two words covenant and circumcision cannot be separated. The first Scriptural references to circumcision and covenant are in Genesis 17. Please read the following Scriptures, recording the main truths about covenant and circumcision. a. Genesis 17:1-27

b. Jeremiah 31:31-33

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Lesson 8 c. Hebrews 13:20

4. There are other references to circumcision in the New Testament. In Acts 15:1-31 the Jerusalem Council for the early Christian church addressed the misunderstanding concerning the life of a Christian. What did these leaders say concerning circumcision for those who believe in Jesus Christ?

5. Please look at Paul’s teaching on circumcision to Gentile believers who were not of the nation Israel. What did Paul say about circumcision in these passages? a. Romans 2:28,29

b. Colossians 2:9-11

c. Colossians 3:11

d. 1 Corinthians 7:19 (summarize this verse and then summarize what Christ taught concerning this from Matthew 22:36-39)

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Lesson 8 6. Paul wrote that you have been set free. Jesus said in John 8:31,32 that if you abide in His word, you are truly His disciple. Christ also said that you will know the truth and the truth will make you free. Jesus declared in John 14:6 that He is the way, the truth and the life and that no one comes to the Father except through Him. The truth of Christ is revealed through the Holy Spirit. 7. Christ has set us free. What then are the benefits of freedom? Part of this freedom involves being free from whatever enslaves you. One thing I wrestle with is perfectionism. When I do not seek God’s perspective, but live by my own wisdom, I can be enslaved in my standards and miss God’s will for my life. When I live with unrealistic expectations for myself or for others, I am robbed of joy, and this can set me at odds with God’s plan. I know that I am alive today that I might bring God honor and glory. I know that whatever I can do well I do in His strength. Perfection here on earth has already been done, and only once; it is called Jesus. Those who have asked Jesus Christ to be their Savior are clothed in His righteousness! Remember God made it possible for you to leave behind the rags of your sins and take on a new garment. You are now clothed in the righteousness of Jesus Christ. Our sanctification then is what sets us apart, the working out of our salvation. This calls Christians to conform their life to the life of Jesus Christ. Sanctification calls believers to honor God, to choose to walk in obedience to His standard, in His righteousness. Do you really live in freedom day by day? Or, is there something that has enslaved you? There might be something in your life that God NEVER intended to bring you bondage. The Holy Spirit convicts us of sin and righteousness and the coming judgment. Please stop and ask God what might be enslaving you.

Paul shared that a little yeast can spread through the whole batch of dough. Is there a tendency or vulnerability to allow (the yeast of) error to spread throughout your mind? Some children were not raised in a home that provided an environment of trust and nurture. Those from that background have to work to learn God’s truth rather than the errors from their background. The Holy Spirit will guide you into God’s truth. Are there any errors that have corrupted God’s truth in your mind? What can you do about this?

Do you understand God’s grace? God’s grace was demonstrated in the life of His holy and perfect Son. The favor of God Almighty came through the sacrifice of Jesus Christ, as the acronym states, God’s Riches At Christ’s Expense. Through the sacrifice of Jesus Christ, we have received the unconditional favor of God. Please look back at the admonition of Galatians 5:4. What had caused the Galatians to fall away from grace?

Continued on the next page.

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Lesson 8 Before you go on, please stop and think about what this means to you.

Paul ended Galatians 5:6 with the phrase, faith that is active through love. To me this means that I must express my faith by loving the Lord God and by loving others. How can I do that today? When I thought of this question, I decided to go outside and take a walk while reflecting on Paul’s exhortation, “What matters is faith that is active through love.” Do you have a place where you can meditate? You might join me in walking and ruminating on how you can live this out in your life this week.

Day 3 - Galatians 5:13-18 1. Today’s lesson will focus on the next six verses in Galatians 5. Please open your time in the word by reading from the beginning of the chapter asking God to illuminate His word that it would make a difference in your spirit today. After reading through Galatians 5:18, begin with these observation questions. • What is the calling for those who follow after Christ?

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•

How did Paul command the Galatian people to live according to Galatians 5:13 and what was the contrast to that in Galatians 5:15?

•

How is the whole law summarized, according to Galatians 5:14?

•

What was Paul’s warning in today’s paragraph? What would be the consequence if they did not live following this caution?

•

What was the instruction of Galatians 5:16 and what was the promise made in relationship to this instruction? This promise should encourage your heart. Stop and meditate on this truth, considering what this means to you today.

Lesson 8 •

2.

How did Paul further explain Galatians 5:16 in the next two verses?

Please examine these word studies for some of the key words used in this passage.

Strong’s # and Transliteration:

Definition from Strong’s Concordance, unless written in italics:

1657 eleutheria eleutheria Galatians 5:13

Freedom, (legitimate or licentious, Galatians 2:4 chiefly, moral or certain), liberty. From 1658 unrestrained, to go at pleasure, i.e. as a citizen, not as a slave, exempt from Galatians 5:1 obligation or liability, free (man or woman), at liberty Serve, to be a slave to, be in bondage, 1 Timothy 6:2 (do) serve (-ice). To obey.

1398 douleuo douleuete Galatians 5:13 4561 sarx sarki Galatians 5:13

Flesh, (as stripped of the skin), i.e. strictly the meat of an animal (as food), or (by extension) the body (as opposed to the soul [or spirit], or as the symbol of what is external, or as the means of kindred), or by implication human nature, with its frailties [physical or moral], and passions, or specifically a human being, carnal, (-ly, or carnally minded)

Use of the word in other Scriptures:

Galatians 5:17,19-21,24

Note: Flesh has been described as man who has chosen to be left to himself;22 the inclination or tendency within man that drives him to do evil23

3. When Paul wrote to the church in Corinth he shared with them about their freedom, only in this case in regard to the Corinthian’s choice of lifestyle. Please read 1 Corinthians 9:19-27 and summarize the commitment Paul made concerning his freedom. Note also the illustration made in the last four verses of the chapter and how this relates to Paul’s teaching in Galatians 5.

22 23

Walter Russell, The Flesh/Spirit Conflict in Galatians, Lanham, University Press of America, Inc., 1997, p. 5. Ibid. 89

Lesson 8 4. Please read Peter’s instructions to the church in 1 Peter 2:16 and 2 Peter 2:19. How did Peter say Christians are to live in these two verses?

5. Several theologians have written that the book of Galatians is a “rough draft” of the book of Romans. In today’s paragraph, you find several thoughts and themes that are found in the epistle to the Romans. Please read these verses in Romans and record how these truths confirm Paul’s teaching to the church in Galatia. a. Romans 6:12,14

b. Romans 13:14 c. Romans 7:15,19,23

d. Romans 8:2,6,7

6. The New Testament presents a picture of how those who follow after Jesus Christ will live as His church. Many specific instructions are given in the New Testament regarding the believer’s relationships with others in the body of Christ. These instructions direct Christians as to how they are to relate to one another. Look at how the phrase one another was used in these Scriptures, and briefly record these commands in the spaces below. As you complete this list, please consider which of these commands given are generally hard for you to obey within the body of Christ. Please reflect on why you struggle with obedience to any of these commands. Romans 12:10

Romans 12:16

Romans 14:19

Ephesians 4:32

Ephesians 5:19

Ephesians 5:21

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Lesson 8 7. Christ has set us free so that we may enjoy the benefits of freedom. Is there something in your life that you are enslaved to that might keep you from serving others in the body of Christ?

Scripture tells those who follow Christ that they must love their neighbor as them self. Who is your neighbor? Paul wrote of this command that God gave to His people through Moses and then gave again to those following Jesus in Romans 13:8-10. In Romans 13:10 Paul simply said that love does no wrong to a neighbor. A neighbor is someone near by. I think it means all of those individuals that God has placed in your life. Do you have a “neighbor” that God has placed in your life that is hard to love? Stop and ask God to help you reach out in love to this person. Do you sometimes want to change the definition of neighbor so that it might exclude someone that is in your life that is hard to love? Remember the command of Galatians 5:13, “but through love make it your habit to serve one another.” How can you make loving others the habit of your life? Behavioralists say that it take 30 days of consistency to form a habit, just as it takes 30 days of not doing something you used to do to break the hold the habit has had on you. I think a way to break a habit is to surrender the habit to the Lord and I have done this by fasting, by going without something. Each week I fast several meals. Going without reminds me of my commitment to the Lord and as I set my own desires aside, I am reminded of my desire to crucify my flesh and unite my heart with my Savior. Realize also that we are to “consider how to stimulate one another to love and good deeds, not forsaking the assembling together (for corporate worship) and encouraging one another.” This is what God intends for His children. You might close by singing a song of praise to the Lord, or perhaps the song “Make Me a Servant” as your prayer before the Lord.

Day 4 – Galatians 5:19-21 1. This study has led you through the book of Galatians as well as provided a closer look at each of the nine fruit of the Spirit. Today’s lesson will look at the sixteen works of the flesh that Paul wrote about in Galatians 5:19-21. Studying these might cause you to have an emotional response because perhaps someone you love or you yourself are enslaved to one or several sinful behaviors. Please open your time in the word in prayer, and then answer these observation questions. • In the introduction to today’s paragraph, what did Paul say about the works of the flesh in Galatians 5:19?

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2.

•

Look over the list and notice that several of the works of the flesh could be grouped by the relationship they have to others on the list. Write these works of the flesh out, grouping them in some way.

•

What was the warning Paul gave in Galatians 5:21 and what is the consequence of this behavior?

Please examine these word studies for some of the key words used in this passage.

Strong’s # and Transliteration:

Definition from Strong’s Concordance, unless written in italics:

Use of the word in other Scriptures:

2041 ergon erga Galatians 5:19 4202 porneia porneia Galatians 5:19

Works, deeds NASB, toil (as an effort or occupation); by implication, an act, doing, labour Sexual immorality ISV, immorality NASB, harlotry, (including adultery and incest), figuratively, idolatry, fornication Impurity, (the quality) physically or morally, uncleanness

Ephesians 5:11

Promiscuity, sensuality NASB, licentiousness, (sometimes including other vices): filthy, lasciviousness, wantonness Idolatry, image-worship, literally or figuratively

Ephesians 5:19

167 akatharsia akatharsia Galatians 5:19 766 aselgeia aselgeia Galatians 5:19 1495 eidololatreia eidololatria Galatians 5:20 5331 pharmakeia pharmakeia Galatians 5:20

Witchcraft, sorcery NASB, medication, (“pharmacy”), i.e. (by extension) magic (literally or figuratively)

1 Corinthians 6:18

Ephesians 5:3

Used four times in the New Testament. Colossians 3:5 Used three times in the New Testament. Revelation 9:21 Revelation 18:23

2054 eris eris Galatians 5:20 92

Rivalry, strife NASB, a quarrel, i.e. (by implication) wrangling, contention, debate, variance

Romans 13:13

Lesson 8 Strong’s # and Transliteration:

Definition from Strong’s Concordance, unless written in italics:

Use of the word in other Scriptures:

2205 zelos zelos Galatians 5:20

Jealousy, zeal, (in a favorable sense, ardor), in an unfavorable one, as of a husband [figuratively of God], or an enemy, malice): emulation, envy (-ing), fervent mind, indignation

Hebrews 10:27

2816 kleronomeo kleronomesousin Galatians 5:21 932 basileia basileian Galatians 5:21

Inherit, to be an heir to, (literally or figuratively), be heir, (obtain by) inherit (-ance). Kingdom, royalty, (abstractly) rule, or (concretely) a realm (literally or figuratively): reign

Matthew 5:5 Romans 14:17

3. Read Paul’s command to the church in Ephesus to see similar teaching to today’s passage of Galatians, in Ephesians 5:3-10. Now read Colossians 3:5 and see how this relates to Galatians 2:20.

4. Please read 1 Corinthians 6:9 and compare these verses with what was in Galatians 5:19-21.

5. Read Paul’s comments to the people of Corinth in 1 Corinthians 3:1-3 to see his concern for these people. How did Paul describe them?

6.

I love the ISV translation of 1 John 3:6-10. Please take the time to read this passage. “No one who remains in him goes on sinning. The one who goes on sinning has not seen him or known him. Little children, do not let anyone deceive you. The person who practices righteousness is righteous, just as he is righteous. The person who practices sin belongs to the evil one, because the Devil has been sinning since the beginning. The reason that the Son of God was revealed was to destroy the works of the Devil. No one who has been born from God practices sin, because God’s seed remains in him. He is not able to go on sinning, because he has been born from God. This is how God’s children and the Devil’s children are distinguished. No person who fails to practice righteousness and to love his brother is from God.” How would you respond to this passage of Scripture? Is there someone God would want you to talk to about this? Continued on the next page. 93

Lesson 8 Paul used the phrase, “and things like that,” in Galatians 5:21. I have a friend whose son is living in open rebellion to the authority of his parents, and the entire household is suffering grief unmeasured. Rebellion could be added to Paul’s list, as one of the “things like that.” Would you stop and ask God to help you see if there is a work of the flesh that you are vulnerable to repeating, and then stop and ask God to help you gain victory over this work of the flesh, that you might truly be free in Christ, not using this freedom as an opportunity to gratify your flesh.

Day 5 – The Fruit of the Spirit - Faithfulness 1. This day you will study the fruit of the Spirit, faithfulness. Before you begin, please write out Galatians 5:22,23. Have you memorized this truth? After writing out the verses, say the verses out loud and then open in prayer asking God for His Spirit to help you understand His truth.

Now please answer these observation questions. • Record what is written about God in the following verses. a. Lamentations 3:22

b. 1 Thessalonians 5:24

c. 1 John 1:9

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•

What was revealed about Jesus in Revelation 19:11?

•

What is promised to those who are faithful according to Revelation 2:10?

Lesson 8 •

This week you will look at two truths concerning the Holy Spirit, one describing His role in the life of believers and another describing His nature. a. Romans 8:11

b. Ephesians 4:28-30

2.

Please examine the word study for the key word used in today’s lesson.

Strong’s # and Transliteration:

Definition from Strong’s Concordance, unless written in italics:

Use of the word in other Scriptures:

4102 pistis pistis Galatians 5:22

Faithfulness, persuasion, i.e. credence, moral conviction (of religious truth, or the truthfulness of God or a religious teacher), especially reliance upon Christ for salvation; abstract, constancy in such profession, by extension the system of religious (Gospel) truth itself; assurance, belief, believe, faith KJV, fidelity

Hebrews 11 is known as the “Hall of Faith” in the New Testament. Hebrews 11:1,3-9

3.

What did David say would contribute to his own faithfulness in Psalm 119:30?

4. Paul described an aspect of God’s character in 1 Corinthians 10:13. What did Paul say about God and what has God promised to those who follow after Him?

5.

Look at what Peter wrote to believers in 1 Peter 4:19 to see how Christians are to live.

6. The apostle Paul was writing to Timothy at the end of his life and made the statement, “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith,” in 2 Timothy 4:7. We all have areas in our life where we are vulnerable to temptations. Think about your life now and ask God to show you any area in your life where you are not following the lifestyle that Paul declared in 2 Timothy. Ask God what you should do about this before you go on.

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Lesson 8 7.

To you, what qualities would be used to describe the opposite of faithfulness?

Christians are asked to be faithful to what God has asked of them. What does that mean to you today?

What challenges you in this area of being faithful? One author said “attending meetings, cranky neighbors, or irritations from children.”24 What about you? What or who is it that has caused you to be unfaithful to your commitment with Jesus Christ, the One who saved you?

What qualities would you use to describe a faithful friend?

Who do you know who manifests the fruit of the Spirit of faithfulness? Would you take the time to affirm that person with a note or phone call to encourage them in their walk with the Lord? This would acknowledge that you have noticed their faithfulness toward others as well as toward the Lord. We are to bring God glory in all that we do, so that others see the Lord in us, in all we do and in all you say. How will you please God today? Be specific. Is this task or attitude hard for you? Stop and ask God to help you as you close your time today. You might sing a song to declare your desire to be faithful in all you do.

24

Rubel Shelly, In Step with the Spirit, Grand Rapids, Baker Book House, 1987, p. 127. 96

Lesson 9

Lesson 9 – Galatians 5:22-26, Galatians 6:1-5, and Gentleness Introduction This week’s lesson will finish Galatians 5, review the chapter, and then begin Galatians 6. At the end of the week you will examine the fruit of the Spirit of gentleness. Only two lessons remain in the study of Galatians! May you continue with the task you started weeks ago, and finish well! God is faithful to help us finish what He has led us to start, and I am claiming that truth for you as I begin this week’s lesson. Have you memorized another verse from Galatians? This week ask God what verse He would have you focus on in the lesson, and write the verse out on a card to help you with that. You might consider a verse that you can claim when you are tempted by sin.

Day 1 – Galatians 5:22-26 1. Today you will study the fruit of the Spirit portion of Galatians! My prayer is that you are grasping Paul’s message to the churches of Galatia, and that you are also able to see that these truths have significance in your own life today. Open in prayer, asking for the Holy Spirit to help you see the eternal principles of Galatians 5, and then read Galatians 5:13-26 to answer these observation questions. • Read out loud Galatians 5:16 and 25. What are believers asked to do in Galatians 5:16 and 25 and what is promised to believers who obey?

•

What did Paul contrast in Galatians 5:19 through 23?

•

How did Paul relate the law to the fruit of the Spirit?

•

What did Paul say about the flesh in Galatians 5:24?

•

Read again Galatians 2:19-21 and see how this relates to Paul’s paragraph at the end of Galatians 5.

•

What instruction did Paul give to those who live by the Spirit in Galatians 5:25 and how did this agree with Jesus’ promise of John 16:13?

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Lesson 9 •

The last instructions in Galatians 5:26 ask believers to not participate in three actions. Name these and think back in the last month, asking yourself if you had any of these attitudes in your spirit. 1. 2. 3.

2.

Please examine these word studies for some of the key words used in this passage.

Strong’s # and Transliteration:

Definition from Strong’s Concordance, unless written in italics:

Use of the word in other Scriptures:

3804 pathema pathemasin Galatians 5:24

Passions, affections, something undergone, i.e. hardship or pain, subjectively, an emotion or influence: affliction, motion, suffering Desires, lusts KJV, a longing, (especially for what is forbidden). The active and individual desire resulting from the soul’s diseased condition.25 Guided, to march in (military) rank (keep step), to conform to virtue and piety, walk orderly

Romans 7:5 (read what is said here about bearing fruit)

1939 epithumia epithumiais Galatians 5:16, Galatians 5:24 4748 stoicheo stoichomen Galatians 5:25 2755 kenodoxos kenodoxoi Galatians 5:26 4292 prokaleomai prokaloumenoi Galatians 5:26 5354 phthoneo phthonountes Galatians 5:26

Arrogant, vainly glorifying, selfconceited: desirous or vain-glory, boastful NASB Provoking, to call forth to oneself (challenge), to irritate, challenging NASB Envying, to be jealous of

John 8:44

Used five times in the New Testament. Philippians 3:16 (living) Hapax legomen. Kenos defined as empty, (in) vain Doxa defined as glory Hapax legomen. Hapax legomen.

3. Paul commanded the Galatians to stop being arrogant. I just read a book that addressed some pitfalls that might cause someone in church to sin. Henry and Richard Blackaby compiled the following list as they believe that pride can lead someone to these sinful behaviors. After reading the list, ask God if you have a struggle with this issue of arrogance. 26 25

Spiros Zodhiates, Ibid., pp. 914,942. Henry & Richard Blackaby, Spiritual Leadership, Nashville, Broadman & Holman Publishers, 2001, pp. 221227. 98 26

Lesson 9 Pride can lead to these sinful behaviors: • • • • •

To take credit oneself for what God or others have done To become unteachable, rather than allowing the Holy Spirit and others to teach and equip you To consider oneself to be self-sufficient instead of relying on God’s grace and the help of others To no longer serve with compassion, because a prideful person seeks what they can gain instead of what they can give To a place of vulnerability, as “pride goes before destruction and a haughty spirit before stumbling,” Proverbs 16:18

4. Please meditate on Galatians 5:22-26 and choose one of these options before you conclude today’s lesson. This exercise will help you learn the passage you have studied today. Option 1: Take Galatians 5:22-26 and write these verses over in your own words. This might seem very difficult, but it can help you learn this passage if you take the time to do this. Option 2: We have all heard the expression that “a picture is worth a thousand words!” It is perhaps true that it might take a thousand words to describe a picture! The second option involves drawing a picture or diagram of the verses you studied. I thought of a picture, but do not want to share that with you, because it is always good to think for oneself! When you try to do this you will be thinking in a different way to help you with the passage.

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Lesson 9 5. Read Galatians 5:26 again and consider how you are to relate to one another based on Paul’s instruction.

In real practical terms, what can you do to live out these instructions given in Galatians 5:25,26?

Please read Philippians 2:3,4 and summarize what these verses say believers are to do.

God has made provision for His children through the indwelling of the Holy Spirit. The instruction of Galatians 5:25 says that believers are to be guided by the Spirit. Please look at the sheet in your Appendix where you have recorded information about the role and the nature of the Holy Spirit and mark in some way the truths about how the Holy Spirit guides you. Write these out here, and allow these truths to minister to your spirit as you close your time today.

Day 2 - Galatians 5 Review 1. You will spend today reviewing Galatians 5. This involves thinking back over the chapter to look for the main ideas or themes that were presented by Paul. Start by praying and asking God for His help and praising the Lord that He has promised that the Holy Spirit will help you. • Please read Galatians 5 one more time and list the key words used by Paul.

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Lesson 9 2. Paul gave several instructions or commands in Galatians 5. Examples of two instructions are found in Galatians 5:1b and c and 5:13b and c. Paul began both of these verses with a declarative statement and then he gave two instructions. Some of the verbs or words that express action were written in the imperative mood, which means that they are statements written as commands to be followed by those hearing the words or receiving the book or letter. These imperatives were generally written in the second person, addressing the recipients as “you or your” or sometimes the “you” is understood but not actually stated in the sentence. In the Koine Greek that was used for the New Testament, the verbs written in the imperative mood are easy to differentiate, because the imperative mood has a different ending than other verb forms. However, even when you do not know the Greek word that was used, you can tell when a verb is in the imperative form by the intent of the sentence. The instructions might also be written with the words should or must introducing the verb, as in Galatians 5:14b. An instruction might also be written with “a verb of being” followed by what is called an infinitive, the form a verb takes when it is introduced by the word “to,” like ‘you are to love others.’ An example of this is found in the ISV translation of Galatians 5:13b. Mark the instructions in Galatians 5 in some way, and then think about why this instruction was given as well as who was given this instruction. When you locate an instruction or command, there might also be a reason given for the recipient to obey. Please look for the reason that those hearing were to follow the command, or why God gave this command. The reason might be introduced by such words as, “in order that,” “so that,” or simply by the word “that.” Galatians 5 contains several warnings. Mark Galatians 5:2,3 and Galatians 5:9 and 10b as warnings. Now read the rest of the chapter to see the other warnings that Paul wrote to the churches in Galatia. Sometimes the Bible will confront a specific behavior of the recipient or recipients that has not honored God. The Bible contains admonitions that call the believer to consider their lifestyle choices, recognizing that God is aware of the thoughts and actions of His children. Galatians 5:4, 5:7b, 5:11 and 5:12 are admonishments. Mark these in some way. 3. The goal will now be to reflect back on the message of Galatians 5. Look back at your Scripture Worksheets and your markings of the declarative statements, instructions, exhortations, admonitions, and warnings from the chapter. Using some of the key words written in the text, you will now consider a theme for each of the sections you studied in this chapter. It might help to write out several summary statements of each section, and then try to limit your statement to no more than five words. List these statements here as well as on the Theme and Title Chart on page 153 of the Appendix, in the sections for Chapter 5 Summary Statements. Paragraph Summary Statements of Galatians 5 Galatians 5:1-6

Galatians 5:7-12

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Lesson 9 Galatians 5:13-18

Galatians 5:19-26

4. The next part of the lesson is to ask God to show you the theme for Galatians 5 based on the main points of each paragraph. Is there one theme that the separate paragraph themes would each “fit” under? Sometimes you can take some of the key words from the paragraph themes and write those into a theme or title for the chapter. Pray and ask for help with this part of the lesson, and then read through these paragraph themes you listed to do this. Now list your title for Galatians 5 here and on the Theme and Title Chart on page 153 of the Appendix.

5. You can rejoice that you just finished Galatians 5 and have one chapter to go! I certainly rejoice with you that you are in Lesson 9 of the study of Galatians and the Fruit of the Spirit! God is faithful, and you are diligent to be at this place today! Before you close your time today, think of a hymn or chorus that focuses on the theme or one of the themes you chose for Galatians 5 and sing that song before the Lord as an act of worship before Him.

Day 3 – Galatians 6, Comprehensive Chapter Study 1. Isn’t this amazing! You are about to begin your study of Galatians 6! Once again you will be asked to spend time going through the Comprehensive Chapter Study. Open in prayer asking for the Lord’s help and then read the Scripture Worksheets for Galatians 6 paying attention to the key words that are repeated. You can refer to the Appendix pages 147, 149, and 151 for help with the inductive observation process. • Mark the key words in Galatians 6. Now is the time to list what is being taught concerning the key words of Galatians 6, by writing a list of what is being stated about the key word when the author used the word. You can place these lists directly on the Scripture Worksheets in the right-hand margin under the heading of the key word, or place your lists on a separate sheet of paper. List the key words from Galatians 6 here.

2. As you read Galatians 6, you can also look for contrasts and comparisons that were used. Refer to Appendix pages 149 and 151 and then write those here in the space provided, or mark your Scripture Worksheets in some way to show these contrasts and comparisons. Answer this on the next page. 102

Lesson 9 Contrasts (to show differences/opposites)

Comparisons (to show similarities and connections, using the words as or like)

3. Read Galatians 6 looking for the declarative statements. Paul continued with statements of truth and doctrine in this chapter. I see that Galatians 6:3, 6:7b, 6:11,12,14 and 15 are declarative statements. You look and see what you think and mark the declarative statements in some way. Paul begins Galatians 6 with two instructions in Galatians 6:1 and several more are given throughout the chapter. Stop and mark the instructions in Galatians 6 also. 4. Look for terms of expression that help you understand time, with words like “now, then, later,” etc. and mark these in a consistent way. Another means of understanding language is to examine the way verbs are used in writing. A simple explanation of verbs is that they are words that express action or the state of being, and they relate the words communicated within a framework of time. Verbs communicate that something is happening at the moment, or has happened in the past, or will happen in the future. (The verbs in the preceding sentence are in italics.) Verbs can also announce that an event has already taken place and the results of that event are continuing at the present time. Please take the time to read Galatians 6 looking for the different verb tenses that were used, noting in the left hand margin references to the future, the present, or the past. This can add another dimension to your study, not because you will be studying verbs, but this will help you see what God has done in the past, what He is doing in your life today, as well as show you what the future holds. 5. Mark words that express conclusion or show results or purpose with words like “for,” “for this reason,” “so that,” and “because.” Words that express conclusion are important to note because they show why the author wrote what he wrote and help you see the promises or consequences that will come. 6. What truth from Galatians 6 does the Lord want you to focus upon? Was there a word or phrase that caused you to think about your own life and lifestyle? How has this last chapter of Galatians made a difference in your life today? Continued on the next page.

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Lesson 9

Now please close by praying that God would reveal Himself through Galatians 6, and encourage your spirit as your continue.

Day 4 – Galatians 6:1-5 1. In the first paragraph of Galatians 6, Paul continued with his teaching concerning the believer’s personal walk with the Lord and he also gave instructions concerning how believers are to live in community with other believers in the church. Open your time today in prayer asking the Holy Spirit to reveal truth concerning your own walk with the Lord, based on God’s righteousness, asking that you would be open to what the Lord might have for you as a member of the body of Christ. Begin with these observation questions. • What was the first instruction Paul wrote in Galatians 6:1 and when was this to take place?

27

•

Who was the instruction of Galatians 6:1 directed to and what was the warning given in this verse?

•

Paul described those “who are spiritual” in the last paragraph of Galatians 5. Look back at this and summarize what Paul meant by the phrase those “who are spiritual.”

•

What was the instruction of Galatians 6:2 and what was the explanation given for following this command?

•

Look back again at Galatians 5:26 to see how this verse relates to today’s passage.

•

One commentator wrote that Galatians 6:5 could be in reference to the coming judgment when everyone will stand before God.27 Others interpret this simply as a

R. Alan Cole, The Epistle of Paul to the Galatians, Leicester, Inter-Varsity Press, 1989, p. 175.

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Lesson 9 load that is light, to be carried by oneself. Please write out the instruction that ended today’s paragraph.

2.

Please examine these word studies for some of the key words used in this passage.

Strong’s # and Transliteration:

Definition from Strong’s Concordance, unless written in italics:

Use of the word in other Scriptures:

4301 prolambano prolemphthe Galatians 6:1

Caught, to take in advance, literally, to eat before others have an opportunity, to anticipate, surprise, come aforehand, overtake, take before, beforehand NASB

Used three times in the New Testament. Mark 14:8

Restore, to complete thoroughly, i.e. to repair, or adjust: fit, frame, mend, (make) perfect (-ly join together) Carrying ISV, bear NASB & KJV, to lift, literally or figuratively (endure, declare, sustain, receive, etc.), carry, take up Burdens, weight, in the N.T. only figuratively, a load, abundance, authority: burden (some), a heavy or excessive load Load, burden, an invoice (as part of freight), figuratively, a task or service

1 Corinthians 1:10

2675 katartizo katartizete Galatians 6:1 941 bastazo bastazete Galatians 6:2,5 922 baros bare Galatians 6:2 5413 phortion phortion Galatians 6:5

1 Thessalonians 3:4

Galatians 6:17

2 Corinthians 4:17 (weight)

Luke 11:46

3. In Galatians 6:1 Paul gave instructions to individuals, using the singular pronoun you, as well as instructions to the corporate body of the church, by using the plural pronoun you, as they would say in the south, you all! You (in the plural) who are spiritual restore should restore that person in a spirit of gentleness. You (in the singular) watch out for yourself so that you are not tempted as well. When someone is living in sin, what brings repentance? Repentance means to change one’s mind about something and to go in a different direction. The same word used in Galatians 6:1 for restore was the word used for those who mended nets that were used for fishing. Think about what would be involved in that process. What is involved in restoring someone after they have sinned and how would that compare to mending a net?

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Lesson 9 What was the attitude commanded to the spiritual restorer in Galatians 6:1?

Paul announced to the Romans that it is the kindness of God that leads to repentance. Read Paul’s instructions to the church in Corinth in 2 Corinthians 2:5-11 to see the attitude necessary for the “spiritual person” who will work to restore a person caught doing something wrong.

4. Paul used the expression “the law of Christ” in Galatians 6:2. Many believe that Paul is referring to Christ’s teaching in the gospels, specifically in John 13:34 and Mathew 22:3840. Please read these two passages and summarize Christ’s teaching here.

How would obedience to the “law of Christ” influence your relating to “a person caught doing something wrong”?

5. In Galatians 6:1 Paul said that you are to watch out for yourself, so that you are not tempted as well. What are you to do to follow this instruction?

Who do you know who is carrying a burden now that you might come along side of to “practice” carrying their burden? What could you do for them to show kindness (usefulness) and fulfill the law of Christ in love?

Continued on the next page.

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Lesson 9 When you are carrying a burden a solution is to trust God with the provision He has made for His children. Please end by reading Matthew 11:28-30. (This will be looked at again tomorrow when you study the fruit of the Spirit, gentleness.) Jesus quoted a verse from Jeremiah 6:16 in this passage, as the nation of Israel had been told where they would find rest in the midst of their rebellion against God. A key to Jesus’ promise is that we are to learn from Him. How would learning about Jesus help you carry your own load? What can you do about that?

You might end your time today by singing a song of praise that is a reminder to you of God’s care.

Day 5 – The Fruit of the Spirit – Gentleness 1. Today you will look at the fruit of the Spirit, gentleness, a word that has been misunderstood by many people. The New Testament defines the words gentle and gentleness in a number of ways. Open today’s lesson in prayer asking for God’s perspective on the fruit of the Spirit of gentleness, that you might understand how incorporating this quality will bring sensitivity as well as strength to your faith. Now begin with these observation questions. • Please read Galatians 6:1 and as a review, record what Paul said here about this same word gentleness.

•

In Matthew 11:29 Jesus said that we are to turn to Him and learn from Him. How did He describe Himself in this verse and why?

•

What was the promise that Jesus made to His followers at the end of Matthew 11:29?

•

In Lesson 4 you looked at Jesus’ description of the Holy Spirit in John 14:16,26,27. Please return to this passage and describe what Jesus taught about the Holy Spirit in John 14:17,18. Do not forget to record these truths on the Holy Spirit reference sheet in your Appendix.

•

What does this description of the Holy Spirit (from John 14:17,18) mean to you personally?

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Lesson 9 2.

Please examine this word study for the key word used in today’s passage.

Strong’s # and Transliteration:

Definition from Strong’s Concordance, unless written in italics:

Use of the word in other Scriptures:

4236 praotes prautes Galatians 5:23

Gentleness, by implication humility, meekness KJV. “The Lord was meek because He had the infinite resources of God at His command.”28

Galatians 6:1 2 Timothy 2:25

3. The Greek philosopher Aristotle defined the root of the word used for gentle as being the middle course in being angry. This word would stand between two extremes, getting angry without reason and not getting angry at all. Therefore it is getting angry at the right time, in the right measure, and for the right reason.29 Now look at two places Paul used the same word for gentleness to see the instructions given for believers. a. Ephesians 4:2 (read Ephesians 4:1-3)

b. 1 Timothy 6:11

4. Jesus spoke about those who are gentle in His Sermon on the Mount in Matthew 5:5. Write out Jesus’ statement about the gentle in Matthew 5:5.

This was a direct quote from Psalm 37:11. In this Psalm David showed the blessing and provision that God has made for the humble and the consequences He has pronounced upon the wicked. If you have the time today to read this Psalm, you will be blessed. The Psalms were poetic literature and read aloud or sung when the Hebrew people gathered for worship. You might read this song aloud as a means of worship unto the Lord. 5. Now please look at Peter’s teaching in 1 Peter 3:15,16 to see how you are to share the truth that is within you. What would it look like if you followed this command with a different attitude?

28

W.E. Vine, Vine’s Expository Dictionary of Old and New Testament Words, Old Tappan, Fleming H. Revell Co., 1981, p. 56. 29 Spiros Zodhiates, The Hebrew-Greek Key Study Bible, p. 1869. 108

Lesson 9 6. Please look back at the word study of gentleness in Question 2. How would you describe the opposite of this word based on Dr. Strong’s definition?

I have attended two excellent seminars taught by Christian educator Dr. Kathy Koch the founder of Celebrate Kids, Inc. Dr. Koch shared about how one can recognize pride in their life. I have included these here. As you read through the list ask the Holy Spirit to reveal to your spirit if you carry the sin of pride and were unaware of this. 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8.

you know only your strengths, not your weaknesses you do not take responsibility for your own problems you talk about your strengths rather than using them you boast about your past you take credit for your strengths you lose sight of today because of ambition for the future you believe you can be anything without God you are not interested in others

Please stop and ask God to help you express this quality of gentleness rather than the work of the flesh, pride. 7. I have a friend who was raised in a home filled with anger, and as an abused child she developed actions and attitudes that kept her alive. The word gentle was not in the description anyone would ever have given of her. When she became a Christian, a pastor challenged her about this, and changing was very difficult for her. She did make a concerted effort to be gentle, and eventually she was able to honor God with a spirit of gentleness that came from the Lord Himself. Take a minute to think of the word gentleman. How would you describe a gentleman and how does it make you feel when you are in the presence of a gentleman? How would you describe the qualities of a man who was NOT a gentleman and how does it make you feel when you are in the presence of a man who is not a gentleman?

Who do you know who manifests the fruit of the Spirit of gentleness? Would you take the time to affirm that person with a note or phone call to encourage them in their walk with the Lord? This would acknowledge that you have noticed their gentleness toward others. Continued on the next page.

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Lesson 9 The apostle Paul told the people of Philippi that they were to not merely look out for their own interests, but for the interests of others. They were told to have the attitude of Christ. Please read the ISV translation of Philippians 2:6-11 as a closing prayer today. Stop and take the time to ask God to help you have the same attitude that was in Christ Jesus when He was here on the earth. In God’s own form existed he, And shared with God equality, Deemed nothing needed grasping. Instead, poured out in emptiness, A servant’s form did he possess, A mortal man becoming. In human form he chose to be, And lived in all humility, Death on a cross obeying. Now lifted up by God to heaven, A name above all others given, This matchless name possessing. And so, when Jesus’ name is called, The knees of everyone will fall, Where’er they are residing. Then every tongue in one accord, Will say that Jesus Christ is Lord, While God the Father praising, ISV.

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Lesson 10

Lesson 10 – Galatians 6:6-18, Galatians Review, and Self-control Introduction This is the last week in the study of the book of Galatians! This week’s lesson will focus on the remaining portion of Galatians 6, a review of Galatians 6, as well as a day to review the entire book of Galatians! The lesson will also look at the fruit of the Spirit, selfcontrol and review the role and nature of the Holy Spirit. In this last week of study, please ask the Lord what verse He would lead you to memorize. We will always be blessed by spending the time and effort it takes to develop this spiritual discipline. You might also review those verses that you memorized during this study, knowing that God’s word will NEVER return void, but will always accomplish God’s purpose.

Day 1 – Galatians 6:6-10 1. Open today by reading Galatians 6, asking God to help you see the purpose for this chapter. Tomorrow you will finish Galatians 6, so you might meditate on Galatians 6 during your day, asking God to help you as you finish the study of the book of Galatians. Now open with these observation questions. • What is the instruction in Galatians 6:6?

•

What was Paul’s instruction of Galatians 6:7 and why was this important?

•

What did Paul teach about planting and harvesting in Galatians 6:7-9? Harvesting: Planting:

•

What were the commands Paul gave to the Galatians in Galatians 6:9,10 and who would benefit from obedience to these commands?

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Lesson 10 2.

Please examine these word studies for some of the key words used in this passage.

Strong’s # and Transliteration:

Definition from Strong’s Concordance, unless written in italics:

Use of the word in other Scriptures:

2841 koinoneo koinoneito Galatians 6:6

Share, to share with others, communicate KJV, distribute, be partaker, fellowship, sharing equally, contributing Deceived, to cause to roam, (from safety, truth or virtue), go astray, err, seduce, wander, be out of the way

Romans 12:13

Ridiculed ISV, mocked KJV, to make mouths at

Hapax legomen.

Good, beautiful, but chiefly good, valuable, or virtuous (for appearance or use, and thus distinguished from agathos (#18) Get tired, grow weary, lose heart NASB, the opposite of being steadfast. Be weary KJV, denotes cowardice, faintheartness.

Galatians 4:18

18 agathos agathon Galatians 6:10

Good, benefit, good things, well. Benevolent, profitable, useful, constitutionally good but not necessarily benefiting others.30

(This word has the same root as the word goodness in Galatians 5:22; see below.) Titus 3:1

19 agathosune agathosune Galatians 5:22

Goodness, virtue, or beneficence. This is character energized, expressing itself in good.31 “Moral and spiritual excellence.”32

Used four times in the New Testament. Refer to this word study on page 80.

4105 planao planasthe Galatians 6:7 3456 mukterizo mukterizetai Galatians 6:7 2570 kalos kalon Galatians 6:9 1573 ekkakeo egkakomen Galatians 6:9

2 Timothy 3:13

Used five times in the New Testament. Ephesians 3:13

3. Another way to translate Galatians 6:6 would be to say the one teaching as well as the one receiving the teaching should share all things together. This can also relate to Galatians 6:1. The Christian who has restored the one who was caught doing something wrong builds up with the word of God, and in this they (share) fellowship together.33 Paul also wrote about the Christian churches addressing the needs of those preaching the gospel in Corinth, Thessalonica, and Philippi. Please read Philippians 4:10-18 looking for the reason the church was to share with those who taught them.

30

Spiros Zodhiates, The Complete Word Study New Testament, p. 878. Ibid. 32 John MacArthur, Ibid., p. 168. 33 Ibid., p. 182. 112 31

Lesson 10 4. The Greek verb koinoneo means sharing, and in a number of different ways. Read Peter’s words in 1 Peter 4:13 to see what believers are to share according to this verse. Please stop to meditate on this. When I read 1 Peter 4:13 it made me think of God’s perspective on what and how we share with others. As you have studied the fruit of the Spirit, you have been led to think about how you relate to others. The noun form of the Greek word (koinoneo) in Galatians 6:6 is koinonia, and this has been translated as fellowship, partnership, or communion in the New Testament. Read about the believer’s understanding of this concept in Acts 2:42-47. What did believers in the early church share according to this passage?

The Greek word koinoneo is not to be a “one way” sharing, as all believers are to share with one another. What does this mean to you today?

Two dear ladies studying the book of Galatians in my class asked what they could share with me, and I said their prayers would minister to me as nothing else could. I challenge you to pray for those who teach you, whether in your home church or through some form of media. After hearing a sermon, a broadcast on the radio or on the television, or some form of tape, stop and pray for that teacher to be strengthened in their walk. As I wrote that I was reminded of the words of a missionary friend of mine who said “if you do not know how to pray for me you can always pray through Paul’s words of Colossians 1:9-12.” You might write out these verses on a card and keep the card in some place where you pray, and then pray this passage on behalf of those who teach you the word. They will be blessed as you partner together with them in this way. 5. How did Paul’s teaching about harvesting relate to his teaching from Galatians 5:1625? What is God’s message to you today concerning this? What are you to do about this? Stop and meditate on God’s truth to you and seek the direction of the Holy Spirit concerning this.

Continued on the next page.

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Lesson 10 Please close by reading Psalm 4 as your own prayer unto the Lord. Thank the Lord for His faithfulness.

Day 2 - Galatians 6:11-18 and Galatians 6 Review 1. You will spend today reviewing Galatians 6. Before you look for the main ideas or themes that were presented by Paul, you will see the contrast Paul made about himself and those who were troubling the churches in Galatia. Start by praying and asking God for His help knowing that the Holy Spirit will help you. Begin with these observation questions. • Look at the contrasts that Paul addressed at the end of his epistle, in Galatians 6:1117. The book of Galatians ends differently than any of Paul’s other epistles. Look at the conclusion of Paul’s letter as you reflect on what Paul taught in the book of Galatians. Teaching in conclusion: To boast in:

The Ebionites (later called Judaizers):

The Apostle Paul:

In relationship to the cross: Any other additional information:

•

What were the three words Paul used as a blessing in his benediction of Galatians 6:16,18 and to whom were these addressed? a. Galatians 6:16

b. Galatians 6:16

c. Galatians 6:18

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Lesson 10 •

Please read Galatians 6 one more time and list the key words used by the apostle Paul.

2. When you began Galatians 6 you looked for the declarative statements and instructions. In Galatians 6, I read Galatians 6:16 and 18 as exhortations. Mark these in some way. 3. The goal will now be to reflect back on the message of Galatians 6. Look at your Scripture Worksheets or your lists of the declarative statements, instructions, and exhortations from the chapter. Using some of the key words written in the text, you will now consider a theme for each of the sections you studied in this chapter. It might help to write out several summary statements of each section, and then try to limit your statement to no more than five words, and list these statements here as well as on page 153 of the Appendix, in the sections for Chapter 6 Summary Statements. Paragraph Summary Statements of Galatians 6 Galatians 6:1-5

Galatians 6:6-10

Galatians 6:11-17

Galatians 6:18

4. Now is the time to ask God to show you the themes for Galatians 6 based on the main points of each paragraph. Is there one theme that the separate paragraph themes would “fit” under? Sometimes you can take some of the key words from the paragraph themes and write those into a theme or title for the chapter. Pray and ask for help with this part of the lesson, and then read through these paragraph themes you listed to do this. Now list your title for Galatians 6 here and on the Theme and Title Chart in the Appendix on page 153.

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Lesson 10 5. If you are reading this paragraph, you probably just completed the study of Galatians 6, and have three days to complete the entire lesson! This is a cause for celebration! I am certainly praising the Lord for His faithfulness and for His mercy as I type this sentence! I was reading Psalm 119 today and stopped to pray verses 9-16 as my prayer. You might personalize this prayer by changing the phrase “young man” to “young woman” or “man,” or “woman,” or “older man,” or “older woman,” as I did. May these words bring conviction, assurance, and comfort to your spirit.

Day 3 – Review of the Entire Book of Galatians 1. This is the day to review the entire book of Galatians. For many people who study a Bible inductively, this part of the study is the most difficult, but at the same time, many find that this time spent in the word is very valuable, because it really helps to determine the theme and purpose of the book. I can only complete this part of the lesson when I humbly bow before God and acknowledge that it is NEVER easy for me to “figure out the theme” of a book of the Bible, but with God’s help it is possible! So please join me in asking for prayer, God will help us! 2. Look at what you have recorded on page 153 of the Appendix for the themes of each chapter. Now you will write a statement to summarize the entire book of Galatians! This will sum up the book of Galatians in a “nutshell” and this will also help you understand the purpose for the book of Galatians. You are looking for the overall message or theme of the book. Ask yourself how each chapter relates to the main theme of the book. Here are some guidelines for writing a book theme: Keep in mind when writing a book theme: • Use about five words or less, if possible • Use at least one word that is actually used in the book • The theme should be descriptive of what is in the book 3. Based on the key words, declarative statements, instructions, exhortations, admonitions, warnings, and summary statements, what is the purpose for the book of Galatians?

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Lesson 10 4. Considering what you have learned in the study of Galatians, what does God want you to share with another person who does not yet know your Savior Jesus Christ? You might write a poem, draw a picture, or in some way express who you are as a follower of Christ.

Day 4 – The Fruit of the Spirit – Self-control 1. Bill Bright, the founder of Campus Crusade for Christ said that “we can not walk in the Spirit without the word, and we can not understand the word without the Holy Spirit.” It is important for every follower of Christ to understand today’s theme of the fruit of the Spirit, self-control. Humbly open in prayer asking the Holy Spirit to help you as you study today so that you might be open to the message that God has in store for you as you spend time in His holy word. Remember that one of the roles of the Holy Spirit is to convict, which includes the conviction of sin, righteousness, and the coming judgment. Jesus said that we would know the truth and the truth would set us free. You have read in Galatians 5:1 that it was for freedom that Christ set us free. Is there a pattern in your life that enslaves your spirit? Stop and ask God to help you understand this bondage, that through the fruit of selfcontrol you might truly walk in freedom. Now please begin with these observation questions while being sensitive to the Lord’s message to you. • What comparison is made in Proverbs 25:28 about a man who has no control over his spirit?

•

What is the contrast made in Proverbs 12:18, and how does this relate to the fruit of the spirit, self-control?

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Lesson 10 •

2.

Look back at the works of the flesh listed in Galatians 5:19-21. What difference would self-control make in regards to these works of the flesh?

Please examine this word study for the key word used in today’s passage.

Strong’s # and Transliteration:

Definition from Strong’s Concordance, unless written in italics:

Use of the word in other Scriptures:

1466 egkrateia egkrateia Galatians 5:23

Self-control, (especially) continence, temperance KJV. Often used in regard to sexual matters, which would then refer back to Galatians 5:19.34 Possessing power, having mastery or possession of.35

Used three times in the New Testament. Acts 24:25 2 Peter 1:6

3. Please look at Peter’s writing in 2 Peter 1:3-9. What did Peter say about the life of a believer and self-control here?

4. The verbal form of the Greek word used for self-control in Galatians 5:23 is found in Paul’s writing to the people of Corinth. Please read these references and record what was said here. a. 1 Corinthians 7:9 b. 1 Corinthians 9:24-25 (What does Paul say will lead to victory?)

5. According to 1 Corinthians 10:13, what difference will God make in your life when you are tempted?

34

R. Alan Cole, Ibid., p. 168. Kenneth S. Wuest, Wuest’s Word Studies, Grand Rapids, Wm. B. Eerdmans Publishing Co., 1944, p. 160. 118 35

Lesson 10 6. Is the fruit of self-control the pattern of your life, or are their areas in your life where you are out of control? Proverbs 29:11 says that a wise man keeps himself under control. Do you struggle with this area of self-control? Ask God to reveal that to you. It might be that you do not see this struggle, but since God sees all things, He sees your struggle and is always available to help you with any thing that dulls your appetite for Him. Is your struggle in the area of the tongue? That could include anger, sarcasm, or gossip. Is your struggle regarding the area of sexual temptation, or perhaps regarding gluttony? Maybe you struggle with your response to people or circumstances and you need to determine what controls your emotions. You might consider who or what you allow to control your moods. In the culture of the first century, the Greek philosophers taught that self-control was possible for an individual through knowledge and reason. The Jewish group called the Essenes, living in Qumran, attempted to live a life of self-control in ascetic austerity, choosing a celibate lifestyle, sharing all things communally, and fasting on a regular basis, relying on God to help them.36 From the perspective of a Christian, to be self-controlled is to be Spirit controlled, controlled by the Holy Spirit. John Piper wrote in his book A Hunger for God, “our appetites dictate the direction of our lives-whether it be the cravings of our stomachs, the passionate desire for possessions or power, or the longings of our spirit for God. But for the Christian, the hunger for anything besides God can be an archenemy, while our hunger for God-and Him alone-is the only thing that will bring victory.” As we have studied the fruit of the Spirit, you can ask yourself, or your (accountability) friend, “What is harvested through my life?” There are times when we can sow from our flesh rather than sow from the Spirit. Are you living in your flesh or are you controlling your flesh? Are you speaking out the desires of your flesh or are you controlling your flesh? Taking one of Paul’s statements from Galatians 6:8 and writing this as a question, “Do you have a life formed by the Spirit or a life formed by your flesh?” Please stop and pray about this, being honest with yourself, and being honest with God. Maybe you answered, “My life is formed by the Spirit, except in this one area:” In an earlier lesson I quoted John Ortberg who said that disciplined followers of Jesus can do “the right thing at the right time in the right way for the right reason.”37 Christians are empowered to honor and glorify God no matter the circumstances that come into their life. Self-control involves developing the habit or practice of self-denial, saying no to your feelings when they are counter to the Lord’s standard. Self-control involves being disciplined, putting things in order in areas where you have responsibility. Being self-controlled means recognizing sin and agreeing with God that it is sin. Sometimes when sin is confessed with another, the power of the sin is broken. Will you confess your struggle before the Lord and perhaps to a friend as well, asking that friend to hold you accountable concerning this area of your life? Continued on the next page.

36 37

Rubel Shelly, Ibid., p. 154. John Ortberg, Ibid., p. 55. 119

Lesson 10 I have included in the Appendix information about compulsive behaviors and the biblical Twelve Step Program that came out of the Oxford Revival of the 19th century. If you struggle with the fruit of self-control please take the time to read these resources, I have prayed that this will help you. Who do you know who manifests the fruit of the Spirit of self-control? Would you take the time to affirm that person with a note or phone call to encourage them in their walk with the Lord? This would acknowledge that you have noticed that they manifest selfcontrol in their own life as well as in relationship toward others. Jesus is faithful in all circumstances. Please close by singing this hymn as a reminder of the role that you have asked Jesus to have in your life. “What a Friend We Have in Jesus” What a Friend we have in Jesus, all our sins and griefs to bear! What a privilege to carry everything to God in prayer! O what peace we often forfeit, O what needless pain we bear, all because we do not carry everything to God in prayer! By Joseph Scriven and Charles C. Converse

Day 5 – Review: the Fruit of the Spirit and the Holy Spirit 1. This is the last day in the study of Galatians and the Fruit of the Spirit! Today you will be reviewing the fruit of the Spirit as well as the role and nature of the Holy Spirit. My prayer is that you will be blessed by your time of study today. Open by asking the Holy Spirit to reveal and glorify God the Father and Jesus Christ the Son through Himself as you spend time in the word. Begin again with these observation questions. • Write out Galatians 5:22,23 one more time! Can you do this from memory? Memorizing Scripture is always a blessing. God has made that promise to His children.

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•

Reading about the fruit of the Spirit will not produce the fruit of the Spirit. Memorizing the list will not produce the fruit of the Spirit… How did the book of Galatians say it was possible to live out the fruit of the Spirit?

•

In a number of places in the book of Isaiah, prophecy was recorded concerning the coming Messiah. In Isaiah 11:1 the prophecy included a picture of the ministry of the Holy Spirit. Please record what this verse said about the Spirit.

Lesson 10 2. One of my favorite passages in the New Testament is the contrast James made in James 3:13-18. Please read this and note what is said about fruit and the sowing of seeds.

3.

Please look at these verses to see further evidence of the role of the Holy Spirit. a. John 16:8-11

b. Titus 3:5

c. Matthew 28:18-20

d. 1 Peter 1:2

e. Ephesians 4:30

4. One place you did not look concerning the Holy Spirit is in Romans 8:26. What is the role of the Holy Spirit according to this verse? What does this say about you and what does this mean to you personally?

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Lesson 10 5. As you close today, please read Psalm 1 to see a contrast between the righteous and the wicked. As you read Psalm 1:2 think of a word you might substitute for the word law used here, based on what you have studied in the book of Galatians. What was the promise made in Psalm 1 and what was recorded here about fruit?

What would be different about your life if you lived in the fruit of the Spirit and extended the fruit of the Spirit toward others?

During this lesson you have studied the role and nature of the Holy Spirit and recorded what you learned on page 155 of the Appendix. Look at this again and read what you recorded. Please write a letter to God or the Lord Jesus or the Holy Spirit in response to the truths revealed about the Holy Spirit. My prayer included a time of thanking God for the Holy Spirit and acknowledging each role the Spirit has in my life.

Continued on the next page.

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Lesson 10 I love the “classical” piece of music called Pachelbel’s Canon, but never realized that there are words to this lovely melody. My prayer is that the words of this song might bring comfort to you as you close today. Evangelical Christians know that God is always with them, so we would not agree with the request asking God to “stay with us,” because we know that God has promised to never leave us, nor forsake us. What an incredible blessing we have to be able to call the Lord God Almighty, Abba Father.

Pachelbel’s Canon In the silence of our souls, O Lord, we contemplate Thy peace. Free from all the world’s desires, free of fear and all anxiety. O Lord, our God, wisdom, joy and peace and love Divine; O Lord, our God, glory, praise and honor be always Thine. O dearest Lord, come to us now, have mercy on us, stay with us and protect us all; O dearest Lord, come to us now, have mercy on us, stay with us and protect us all; O Lord our King, Thy praises we will always sing! Alleluia, Alleluia, Alleluia, Alleluia, Sing Alleluia.

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Appendix

Roman Road in Pisidian Antioch, Galatia Photo courtesy William Fretwell

Galatians Chapter 1

Scripture Worksheets

Scripture Worksheets Chapter 1 1

From Paul—an apostle not sent from men or by a man, but

by Jesus Christ and God the Father who raised him from the dead— 2and all the brothers who are with me, to the churches in Galatia. 3May grace and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ be yours! 4He gave himself for our sins in order to rescue us from this present evil age according to the will of our God and Father. 5To him be the glory forever and ever! Amen. 6

I am astonished that you are so quickly deserting the one

who called you by the grace of Christ to follow a different gospel, 7which is not really another one. To be sure, there are certain people who are troubling you and want to distort the gospel about Christ. 8But even if we or an angel from heaven should proclaim to you a gospel contrary to what we proclaimed to you, let that person be condemned! 9What we have told you in the past I am now telling you again: If anyone proclaims to you a gospel contrary to what you received, let that person be condemned! 10Am I now trying to win the approval of people or of God? Or am I trying to please people? If I were still trying to please people, I would not be Christ's servant. 11

For I want you to know, brothers, that the gospel that was

proclaimed by me is not of human origin. 12For I did not International Standard Version® - 1.3

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receive it from a man, nor was I taught it, but I received it through a revelation of Jesus Christ. 13For you have heard about my earlier life in Judaism—how I kept violently persecuting God's church and was trying to destroy it. 14I advanced in Judaism beyond many of my contemporaries, because I was far more zealous for the traditions of my ancestors. 15

1

But when God, who set me apart before I was born and

who called me by his grace, was pleased 16to reveal his Son to me so that I might proclaim him among the gentiles, I did not confer with another human being at any time, 17nor did I go up to Jerusalem to see those who were apostles before me. Instead, I went away to Arabia and then came back to Damascus. 18

Then three years later I went up to Jerusalem to become

acquainted with Cephas, and I stayed with him for fifteen days. 19

But I did not see any other apostle except James, the Lord's

brother. 20(I declare before God that what I am writing to you is not a lie.) 21Then I went to the regions of Syria and Cilicia. 22

But I was unknown by sight to the churches of Christ in

Judea. 23The only thing they kept hearing was this: “The man who used to persecute us is now proclaiming the faith he once tried to destroy!” 24So they kept glorifying God for what had happened to me.

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Galatians Chapter 2

Scripture Worksheets Chapter 2

1

Then fourteen years later I again went up to Jerusalem

with Barnabas, taking Titus with me. 2I went in response to a revelation, and in a private meeting with the reputed leaders I set before them the gospel I proclaim among the gentiles. I did this because I was afraid that I was running or had run for nothing. 3But not even Titus, who was with me, was forced to be circumcised, even though he was a Greek. 4However, false brothers were secretly brought in. They slipped in to spy on the freedom we have in Christ Jesus so that they might enslave us. 5

But we did not give in to them for a moment, so that the truth

of the gospel might always remain with you. 2 6

Now those who were reputed to be important added

nothing to my message. (What sort of people they were makes no difference to me, since God pays no attention to outward appearances.) 7In fact, they saw that I had been entrusted with the gospel for the uncircumcised, just as Peter had been entrusted with the gospel for the circumcised. 8For the one who worked through Peter by making him an apostle to the circumcised also worked through me by sending me to the gentiles. 9So when James, Cephas, and John (who were reputed to be leaders) recognized the grace that had been given me, they gave Barnabas and me the right hand of fellowship, agreeing that we should go to the gentiles and they to the International Standard Version® - 1.3

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circumcised. 10The only thing they asked us to do was to remember the destitute, the very thing I was eager to do. 11

But when Cephas came to Antioch, I opposed him to his

face, because he was clearly wrong. 12For until some men came from James, he was in the habit of eating with the gentiles, but after they came he drew back and would not associate himself with them, being afraid of the circumcision party. 13The other Jews also joined him in this hypocrisy, to the extent that even Barnabas was caught up in their hypocrisy. 14But when I saw that they were not acting consistently with the truth of the gospel, I told Cephas in front of everyone, “Though you are a Jew, you live like a gentile and not like a Jew. So how can you insist that the gentiles must live like Jews?” 15 16

2

We ourselves are Jews by birth, and not gentile sinners,

yet we know that a person is not justified by the works of the

law but by the faithfulness of Jesus Christ. We, too, have believed in Christ Jesus so that we might be justified by the faith of Christ and not by the works of the law, for no human being will be justified by the works of the law. 17

Now if we, while trying to be justified in Christ, have

been found to be sinners, does that mean that Christ is a minister of sin? Of course not! 18For if I rebuild something that I tore down, I demonstrate that I am a wrongdoer. 19For through the law I died to the law so that I might live for God. I 130

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Scripture Worksheets

have been crucified with Christ. 20I no longer live, but Christ lives in me, and the life that I now live in the flesh I live by the faithfulness of the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me. 21I do not set aside the grace of God, for if righteousness comes through the law, then Christ died for nothing.

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Galatians Chapter 3

Scripture Worksheets Chapter 3

1

You foolish Galatians! Who put you under a spell? Was

not Jesus Christ clearly portrayed as crucified before your very eyes? 2I want to learn only one thing from you: Did you receive the Spirit by doing the works of the law or by believing what you heard? 3Are you so foolish? Having started out with the Spirit, are you now ending up with the flesh? 4Did you suffer so much for nothing? (If it really was for nothing!) 5Does God supply you with the Spirit and work miracles among you because you do the works of the law or because you believe what you heard? 6In the same way, Abraham “believed God, and it was credited to him as righteousness.”2 7

You see, then, that those who have faith are Abraham's

real descendants. 8Because the Scripture saw ahead of time that God would justify the gentiles by faith, it announced the gospel to Abraham beforehand when it said, “Through you all nations will be blessed.” 9Therefore, those who believe are blessed together with Abraham, the one who believed. 10

Certainly all who depend on the works of the law are

under a curse. For it is written, “A curse on everyone who does not obey everything that is written in the book of the law!” 11

Now it is obvious that no one is justified in the sight of God

by the law, because “The righteous will live by faith.” 12But the law has nothing to do with faith. Instead, “The person who International Standard Version® - 1.3

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keeps the commandments will have life in them.” 13Christ redeemed us from the curse of the law by becoming a curse for us. For it is written, “A curse on everyone who is hung on a tree!” 14This happened in order that the blessing promised to Abraham would come to the gentiles through Christ Jesus, so that we might receive the promised Spirit through faith. 15

Brothers, let me use an example from everyday life. Once

a person's will has been ratified, no one can cancel it or add conditions to it. 16Now the promises were spoken to Abraham and to his descendant. It doesn't say “descendants,” referring to many, but “your descendant,” referring to one person, who is Christ. 17This is what I mean: The law that came 430 years later did not cancel the covenant previously ratified by God so as to nullify the promise. 18For if the inheritance comes by the law, it no longer comes by the promise. But it was by a promise that God so graciously gave it to Abraham. 19

Why, then, was the law given? It was added because of

transgressions until the descendant came to whom the promise was given. It was put into effect through angels by means of an intermediary. 20Now an intermediary involves more than one party, but God has acted on his own. 21So is the law in conflict with the promises of God? Of course not! For if a law had been given that could give us life, then certainly righteousness would come through the law. 22But the Scripture has put 134

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Scripture Worksheets

everything under the power of sin, so that what was promised by the faithfulness of Christ might be given to those who believe. 23

Now before this faith came, we were held in custody and

carefully guarded under the law in preparation for the faith that was to be revealed. 24And so the law was our guardian until Christ came, so that we might be justified by faith. 25But now that this faith has come, we are no longer under the control of a guardian. 26

For all of you are God's children through faith in Christ

Jesus. 27Indeed, all of you who were baptized into Christ have clothed yourselves with Christ. 28A person is no longer a Jew or a Greek, a slave or a free person, a male or a female, because all of you are one in Christ Jesus. 29And if you belong to Christ, then you are Abraham's descendants and heirs according to the promise.

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Galatians Chapter 4

Scripture Worksheets Chapter 4

1

Now what I am saying is this: As long as an heir is a child,

he is no better off than a slave, even though he owns everything. 2Instead, he is placed under the control of guardians and trustees until the time set by the father. 3It was the same way with us. While we were children, we were slaves to the basic principles of the world. 4But when the fullness of time had come, God sent his Son, born of a woman, born under the law, 5in order to redeem those who were under the law, so that we might receive adoption as his children. 6Now because you are his children, God has sent the Spirit of his Son into our hearts to cry out, “Abba! Father!” 7So you are no longer a slave but a child, and if you are a child, then you are also an heir through God. 8

However, in the past, when you did not know God, you

were slaves to things that are not really gods at all. 9But now that you know God, or rather have been known by God, how can you turn back again to those powerless and bankrupt basic principles? Why do you want to become their slaves all over again? 10You are observing days, months, seasons, and years. 11

I am afraid for you, lest somehow my work for you has been

wasted! 12

I beg you, brothers, to become like me, since I became

like you. You did not do anything wrong to me. 13You know International Standard Version® - 1.3

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that it was because I was ill that I brought you the gospel the first time. 14Even though my condition put you to the test, you did not despise or reject me. On the contrary, you welcomed me as if I were an angel of God, as Christ Jesus himself. 15

What, then, happened to your positive attitude? For I testify

that if it had been possible, you would have torn out your eyes and given them to me. 16So have I now become your enemy for telling you the truth? 17

These people are devoted to you, but not in a good way.

They want you to avoid me so that you will be devoted to them. 18(Now it is always good to be devoted to a good cause, even when I am not with you.) 19My children, I am suffering birth pains for you again until Christ is formed in you. 20

Indeed, I wish I were with you right now so that I could

change the tone of my voice, because I am completely baffled by you! 21

Tell me, those of you who want to live under the law: Are

you really listening to what the law says? 22For it is written that Abraham had two sons, one by a slave woman and the other by a free woman. 23Now the son of the slave woman was conceived according to the flesh, but the son of the free woman was conceived through a promise. 24This is being said as an allegory, for these women represent two covenants. The one woman, Hagar, is from Mount Sinai, and her children are born 138

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into slavery. 25Now Hagar is Mount Sinai in Arabia and corresponds to present-day Jerusalem, because she is in slavery along with her children. 26But the heavenly Jerusalem is the free woman, and she is our mother. 27For it is written, “Rejoice, you childless woman, who cannot give birth to any children! Break into song and shout, you who feel no pains of childbirth! For the children of the deserted woman are more numerous than the children of the woman who has a husband.” 28 29

So you, brothers, are children of the promise, like Isaac.

But just as then the son who was conceived according to the

flesh persecuted the son who was conceived according to the Spirit, so it is now. 30But what does the Scripture say? “Drive out the slave woman and her son, for the son of the slave woman must never share the inheritance with the son of the free woman.” 31So then, brothers, we are not children of the slave woman but of the free woman.

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Scripture Worksheets Chapter 5

1

Christ has set us free so that we may enjoy the benefits of

freedom. So keep on standing firm in it, and stop attaching yourselves to the yoke of slavery again. 2Listen! I, Paul, am telling you that if you allow yourselves to be circumcised, Christ will be of no benefit to you. 3Again, I insist that everyone who allows himself to be circumcised is obligated to obey the entire law. 4Those of you who are trying to be justified by the law have been cut off from Christ. You have fallen away from grace. 5For through the Spirit, by faith, we eagerly wait for the hope of righteousness. 6For in Christ Jesus neither circumcision nor uncircumcision matters. What matters is faith that is active through love. 7

You were running beautifully! Who cut in on you and

stopped you from obeying the truth? 8Such influence does not come from the one who calls you. 9A little yeast spreads through the whole batch of dough. 10I am confident in the Lord that you will take no other view of the matter. However, the one who is troubling you will suffer God's judgment, whoever he is. 11As for me, brothers, if I am still preaching the necessity of circumcision, why am I still being persecuted? In that case the offense of the cross has been removed. 12I wish that those who are unsettling you would castrate themselves!

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Galatians Chapter 5

For you, brothers, were called to freedom. Only do not

turn your freedom into an opportunity to gratify your flesh, but through love make it your habit to serve one another. 14For the whole law is summarized in a single statement: “You must love your neighbor as yourself.” 15But if you bite and devour one another, be careful that you are not destroyed by each other. 16

So I say, live by the Spirit, and you will never fulfill the

desires of the flesh. 17For what the flesh wants is opposed to the Spirit, and what the Spirit wants is opposed to the flesh. They are opposed to each other, and so you do not do what you want to do. 18But if you are being led by the Spirit, you are not under the law. 19

Now the works of the flesh are obvious: sexual

immorality, impurity, promiscuity, 20idolatry, witchcraft, hatred, rivalry, jealously, outbursts of anger, quarrels, conflicts, factions, 21envy, murder, drunkenness, wild partying, and things like that. I am telling you now, as I have told you in the past, that people who practice such things will not inherit the kingdom of God. 22But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23gentleness, and self-control. There is no law against such things. 24Now those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified their flesh with its passions and desires. 25If we live by the Spirit, let us also be 142

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guided by the Spirit. 26Let us stop being arrogant, provoking one another and envying one another.

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Scripture Worksheets Chapter 6

1

Brothers, if a person is caught doing something wrong,

those of you who are spiritual should restore that person in a spirit of gentleness. Watch out for yourself so that you are not tempted as well. 2Practice carrying each other's burdens. In this way you will fulfill the law of Christ. 3For if anyone thinks he is something when he is really nothing, he is only fooling himself. 4

Each person must approve his own actions, and then he can

boast about his own accomplishments and not those of his neighbor. 5For everyone must carry his own load. 6

The person who is taught the word should share all his

goods with his teacher. 7Stop being deceived; God is not to be ridiculed. A person harvests whatever he plants. 8For the person who plants in his flesh will harvest decay from the flesh, but the person who plants in the Spirit will harvest eternal life from the Spirit. 9Let us not get tired of doing what is good, for at the right time we will reap a harvest—if we do not give up. 10So then, whenever we have the opportunity, let us practice doing good to everyone, especially to the family of faith. 11

Look at how large these letters are because I am writing

with my own hand! 12These people who want to impress others by their flesh are trying to force you to be circumcised, simply to avoid being persecuted for the cross of Christ. 13Why, not even those who are circumcised obey the law! They simply International Standard Version® - 1.3

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want you to be circumcised so that they can boast about your flesh. 14But may I never boast about anything except the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, by which the world has been crucified to me, and I to the world! 15For neither circumcision nor uncircumcision matters. Rather, what matters is being a new creation. 16Now may peace be on all those who live by this principle, and may mercy be on the Israel of God. 17From now on let no one make trouble for me, for I carry the scars of Jesus on my own body. 18

May the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit,

brothers! Amen.

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Inductive Study Methodology

Appendix

Inductive Study Methodology Definition: Using the Bible as the primary source of information and reading with a purpose by asking relevant questions, so that through complete observation, one can accurately interpret, determine eternal principles, and then apply Scripture to all circumstances of life. • • • •

God speaks through the prophets, recorded in Scripture God gave the word so that He might reveal Himself to us God speaks through Jesus, as He is the word who came in the flesh The Holy Spirit gives all believers the ability to understand the word of God

Four Components of the Inductive Study Methodology 1. Observation: Seeing what the text says, to gain facts and information The process of observation is foundational to inductive Bible study Asking the “5 Ws and an H” questions helps students focus on the obvious Who People

What Events

Where Place

When Time

Why Reason or purpose

How Means or method

2. Interpretation: Determining what the text means to gain understanding Looking for information and the correlation in the context of Scripture Context: Looking at the surrounding words, phrases, sentences, paragraphs, chapters, and book in which something exists, occurs, or is placed. The author’s use of the repetition of ideas or thoughts will also help you discover meaning within the context. 3. Principlization: Determining what eternal truths are being taught? Stating the author’s propositions, arguments, narration, and illustrations as abiding timeless truths. 4. Application: Conviction as to how the truth applies personally, leads to transformation. Component of the Methodology

Holy Spirit’s Ministry

Man’s Response

Product of Component

Observation -Focus on the obvious

Illumination

Reasoning

Facts & Information

Interpretation -Done in light of context

Teaching

Evaluation

Understanding

Principlization -Focus on Learning

Conviction

Summarization

Eternal Principles

Application -Begins with individual

Guidance

Accountability

Transformation

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Appendix

Step 1

Inductive Study Methodology

The Overview

Discovering the Context or the Big Picture Purpose: To identify the flow of thought that ties the book together and to identify the author's reason for writing A. Who is the Author: Ask Questions

B.

C.

D. E. F.

G.

• • • • •

Who is writing and what does he say about himself? What are his circumstances? Where is he and why is he there? When in his life is he writing? Why is he writing?

• • • • • •

Who is it written to? How is the recipient described? What does it say about the recipient? What is the relationship of the recipients to the author? Where is the recipient? Why is the author writing to the recipient?

• • •

Who are the other people mentioned and what does the text say about them? What do you learn about their relationship to the author or recipient? What is their relationship to the key message?

• •

Words generally repeated throughout the text When removed the text is left without meaning

• •

Teaching doctrinal truth that would inform and equip those who follow after Christ Historical narrative, sharing historical events or personal testimony

• •

A command or imperative statement, telling someone what they are to do Usually written in the second person such as you, your, or yourself; or introduced with the phrase “let us”

Who is or who are the Recipient/s: Ask Questions

Other People Mentioned: (Either specifically, or by generalization or implication)

Look for Key Words

Look for Declarative Statements Look for Instructions or Commands

Look for Exhortations •

H. I.

148

• •

A personal message from the author to encourage the recipients regarding their own situation, whether personally or within their church Show the uniqueness of the situation that led to the book being written Sometimes introduced with the word “you,” calling or urging obedience

• •

Confronting the behavior of the recipient that has not honored God To advise strongly, to reprove, or to call the recipients to repentance

• •

To put on guard or to put on notice concerning possible danger, evil, or harm To describe a just recompense or a possible consequence for behavior based on God’s prophecy concerning judgment

Look for Admonitions Look for Warnings

Inductive Study Methodology

Step 2

Appendix

Comprehensive Chapter Study

Observation Chapter by Chapter Purpose:

A.

Marking Key Words 1. 2. 3. 4.

B. C. D.

E. F.

To examine the details of the chapter, to see how the chapter details relate to the book Mark so your eye can see on the page the occurrence of the word This is typically done with colored pencils God, Jesus Christ, the Holy Spirit, and their pronouns are always keywords The key words become a basis for developing a list of facts

Making lists of the key words by writing phrases and sentences Reasoning through the lists of information from the key words Contrasts - Reasoning from another perspective Comparisons of ideas or bodies of truth that the author used to teach. • Point out differences in words or phrases • Most contrasts are identified by the following words: but, however, or never the less

Comparisons

Dealing with ideas or bodies of truth that are similar to make some point • Identified by the words: like, as

Terms of Expression

Time - Helps us answer when something occurred or will occur • Look for words like: now, then, or later Conclusion or Results or Purpose • Look for words like: for, for this reason, so that, that, or because Verb Usage – Will tell if something has occurred in the past, will occur in the future, or is to be part of the present time

Step 3

Word Studies

Purpose: To deepen understanding of the text To clarify understanding of the text To determine the meaning of unknown or confusing words or sections of texts

A.

Pick a Word 1. 2. 3.

B.

Look at the key words in the text Look at the words with unclear meanings Look at the verbs and nouns in the text

Look up the definition in a word study tool Exhaustive concordances contain three sections 1. Alphabetical list of all words used in the text of Scripture that are then ordered in biblical occurrence 2. Dictionary of Hebrew words arranged numerically 3. Dictionary of Greek words arranged numerically Expository Dictionaries Vine’s Dictionary of the New Testament: keyed to the KJV Spiros Zodhiates. Complete Word Study Dictionary of the New Testament Complete Word Study Dictionary of the Old Testament

C.

Read the definition back into the text

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Step 4

Inductive Study Methodology

Cross Referencing of Scripture

Purpose: To establish the context within the broader context of Scripture • • • •

Context always rules in all interpretations Amplify or clarify the understanding of the text Scripture is the best interpreter of Scripture Scripture never contradicts Scripture

A.

How to determine Cross References: 1. Look up the word in a concordance 2. Look up the word in a topical Bible 3. Look up verses identified by marginal references

B.

Read the cross reference

C.

Evaluate the message in the light of the cross reference

Step 5

Determining Paragraph and Chapter Theme and Book Title

A.

Paragraph Analysis • Determine the paragraph theme. The editors of some translations of the Bible have each verse starting on a new line within each chapter. The NASB begins each new paragraph by printing the verse number in bold type. The NIV divided the chapters into paragraphs, as we know them, indenting at the beginning of each new paragraph. When you study the ancient languages of the Bible, there are differences in paragraph divisions from one manuscript to another. The words of Scripture were inspired, but years ago, editors added verse numbers, paragraph divisions, and the divisions made by chapter numbers.

B.

Developing each Chapter Theme and the Book Title • A collection of summary statements, one for each chapter and one for the entire book • These can be verified from key words, instructions, exhortations, admonitions, and warnings within the chapter 1. Use five words or less, with at least one actual word found in a chapter 2. Each chapter title should be distinctive from the other chapter titles 3. Each title should be descriptive of what is in the chapter 4. Place these themes on the Theme and Title Chart

150

How?

Why?

What?

Author Recipient(s) Other people Key words Declarative Statements Instructions Exhortations Admonitions Warnings

A. B. C. D. E.

F. G. H. I.

Identify the flow of thoughts which ties it together

•

A. B. C. D. E. F.

•

•

Marking key words Making lists of facts Reasoning the lists Contrasts Comparisons Terms of expression of time, conclusion or results

Examine the details of the chapter Examine how the chapter details relate to the book

Step 2 Comprehensive Chapter Studies

Step 1

Deepen the understanding of the text Clarify the understanding of the text

A. Pick a word B. Look up the definition in an exhaustive concordance or an expository dictionary C. Read the definition of the word back into the text

•

•

Word Studies

Step 3

Step 5

Appendix

B.

•

• •

•

A.

To determine the paragraph and chapter themes To determine the book title Summary statements for each paragraph, chapter, and the book From the key words, declarative statements instructions, exhortations, admonitions, and warnings Use five words or less Each chapter title should be distinctive from other chapters Descriptive of what is in the chapter Place each theme on the Theme and Title Chart

Paragraph and Chapter Theme and Book Title

Establish the context • within the broader context of Scripture Amplify or clarify the • text

A. Look up the word or phrase using: • a concordance • a topical Bible • marginal references B. Read the cross reference C. Evaluate the message in the light of the cross reference

•

•

Cross Referencing Scripture

Step 4

Inductive Study Methodology: Summary of the Process

The Overview: Discovering the context or the big picture of the book • Identify the author’s reason for writing

Inductive Study Methodology

Galatians

Appendix

Galatians Theme and Title Chart

Summary Statements

Titles BOOK

Chapter 1

Chapter 2

Chapter 3

Chapter 4

Chapter 5

Chapter 6

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Appendix

The Holy Spirit The Nature of the Holy Spirit

The Role of the Holy Spirit

155

Map

Appendix

Appendix

In the Fullness of Time The apostle Paul wrote that “in the fullness of time God sent forth His Son,” in Galatians 4:4. This expression, “the fullness of time” can be seen through the perspective of three distinct elements in history. First would be the fulfillment of God’s purpose among the nation of Israel, secondly the influence of the Greek culture who had influenced the Hebrew people for several centuries, and lastly, God sent forth His Son during the time of the Roman rule in the entire Mediterranean area. The fullness of time dictates an analysis of these three elements.

Greek language. The Old Testament sacred writings had been translated into this language of the common people centuries before the coming of Christ, which made the sharing of the gospel “easier,” because so many knew this language that was used for teaching and writing. The culture of the Greeks encouraged thinking on philosophical and ethical issues. The teachings of Plato and Socrates had claimed the existence of a truth and wisdom beyond human understanding. The Stoics introduced a way of life that held similar tenets as the Hebrew faith. These teachings made it seem that there were similarities among the Greek philosophers and the Hebrew prophets. Later the teaching about logos (the word), contributed to this as Christ being declared as logos, who was also sought after by the Greeks.

The Jewish people had a monotheistic religion, where they worshipped Yahweh, the creator of the heavens and the earth. A part of their faith in God was awaiting the provision He had promised of a Savior, a Messiah who would bring them peace. In the midst Despite the differences of this yet unfulfilled promise The Roman rule there was political unrest and a among the Hebrew decreed the Pax Romana, peace number of groups arose to deal people, all were looking among the people and the with their circumstances. The Christian people who were for the long-awaited Pharisees attempted to commanded to be law abiding formulate a way of living contributed to this. The society of the Romans within the Greek culture, giving their provided safe and quality roads that afforded interpretation of the Laws that must be followed people to travel and this was one way the gospel by the Hebrew people living under the rule of was spread among the Roman Empire. foreigners. The Saducees established a pattern The time that God ordained for His Son for the people to continue worshipping God within the temple in Jerusalem and in the to come to earth also afforded some challenges regional synagogues. There were Zealots who as the Gentile people were used to a great variety of gods, and so Jesus being claimed as God was developed a strong political agenda for dealing with foreign rule. There were also the Essenes not unknown to them. There were Emperors who followed ascetic practices and removed who were “deified” and several called themselves the savior of the people. So in one themselves to worship God in isolation near the Dead Sea. Despite the differences among the sense there was toleration among the first Hebrew people, all were looking for the longcentury people toward this one called Christ among His followers, but there was also an awaited Messiah. intolerance that came, through the Jewish leaders The King of the Palestinian region who rejected Jesus of Nazareth as Christ. The appointed by the Roman ruler was supportive Jewish diaspora or dispersion, placed Jewish enough to rebuild the Jewish temple in people in every major city in the Roman Empire Jerusalem and give the people hope. They were and these all heard of Christianity through the to be taxed in the year 4 (or 6 BC) so that Mary traveling merchants and missionaries, so that the and Joseph left Nazareth to go to Bethlehem so world would never be the same as the plan of that prophecy was fulfilled as to the exact God had been revealed through His precious birthplace of the Messiah! Son. In the midst of Palestine, the people Jan Wells, 2002 were united in a unique way with the rest of the area around the Mediterranean by the koine 159

We believe in the Holy Spirit, the Lord, the giver of life, who proceeds from the Father and the Son. With the Father and the Son he is worshiped and glorified. He has spoken through the Prophets. We believe in one holy catholic and apostolic Church. We acknowledge one baptism for the forgiveness of sins. We look for the resurrection of the dead, and the life of the world to come. Amen.

*The word "catholic" refers not to the Roman Catholic Church, but to the universal church of the Lord Jesus Christ.

Amen.

I believe in the Holy Spirit, the holy *catholic church, the communion of saints, the forgiveness of sins, the resurrection of the body, and life everlasting.

He ascended into heaven and sits at the right hand of God the Father Almighty, whence He shall come to judge the living and the dead.

He descended into hell. The third day He arose again from the dead.

Who was conceived of the Holy Spirit, born of the Virgin Mary, suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, died, and was buried.

I believe in God, the Father Almighty, the Creator of heaven and earth, and in Jesus Christ, His only Son, our Lord:

We believe in one God, the Father, the Almighty, maker of heaven and earth, of all that is, seen and unseen.

We believe in one Lord, Jesus Christ, the only Son of God, eternally begotten of the Father, God from God, Light from Light, true God from true God, begotten, not made, of one Being with the Father. Through him all things were made. For us and for our salvation he came down from heaven: by the power of the Holy Spirit he became incarnate from the Virgin Mary, and was made man. For our sake he was crucified under Pontius Pilate; he suffered death and was buried. On the third day he rose again in accordance with the Scriptures; he ascended into heaven and is seated at the right hand of the Father. He will come again in glory to judge the living and the dead, and his kingdom will have no end.

The Apostles' Creed

The Nicene Creed

Appendix

Appendix

Compulsive Behavior There are many causes for compulsive behavior, and usually more than one reason for an individual developing this personality pattern, so that recovery is seldom a simple matter. Compulsive behavior might be caused by one or several of the following: •

An unconscious desire or attempt to suspend time, a desire for invincibility, or the drive to fight the aging process, and in fact achieve immortality.

•

Feelings of inadequacy and shame, often stemming from childhood.

•

Unmet emotional needs, because of the hunger for love we each have within us.

•

Our deep longing for spiritual fulfillment when we are alienated from God, and in fact, this longing can only be filled by our relationship with God.

•

Distorted thinking, such as “I deserve such and such” generally associated with wanting to feel good or have good things.

•

An underlying rebellion in the individual, to God or anyone in authority over them.

•

Low self esteem, including a struggle separating who they are from what they do, or how they behave.

•

Growing up in a home where alcohol or another addiction was present.

In England during the 19th century, a revival led many Christians to a place of humility before God. This Oxford Revival as it was named, contributed teaching concerning what a believer should do to be spiritually whole, and to deal with areas in their life that caused addiction or led to a compulsive behavior. Included in the Appendix is the list of the twelve statements based on Scripture, that later became known as “The Twelve Steps,” forming the basis for the Alcoholic Anonymous program as it is known today. While most AA programs have moved away from the foundation of biblical standards, the original “Twelve Steps” will provide a resource for anyone who struggles with temptations and compulsiveness in their life. Please take the time to study the “Twelve Steps to Wholeness” letting the holy word of God minister to your soul as you process these truths.

I would like to mention two valuable resources to help anyone who is struggling with the “recovery process” or has been affected by someone with an addiction. These books were recommended by a Christian counselor, whose clients can use these “workbooks” as homework in between counseling sessions. One excellent Christian reference is The Twelve Steps, A Spiritual Journey and an excellent book from a non-Christian perspective is Repeat After Me, by Claudia Black. Both of these books are listed in the Bibliography in the Appendix.

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Twelve Steps of Wholeness A valuable resource for anyone struggling with compulsive behaviors. Following a tradition of the early church and the Wesley revival, the Oxford Group systematized a series of “steps” as a process of cleansing one’s inner life. The organization calling themselves Alcoholics Anonymous adapted these “Twelve Steps,” however for the most part they ignored the Christian foundation. They are here re-adapted emphasizing the great Christian base so integral to the wholeness sought. Here the center of wholeness is recognized as the Lord Jesus Christ. The “steps” have also been extended to conform to other principles of discipleship and Christian growth. If a Christian will vigorously apply these principles, and make these decisions, that person will move toward “teleios, wholeness in Christ. 1. I now see that I, of myself, am powerless, unable to control (manage) my life by myself. Romans 7 - 8

Romans 7:18,19

Romans 3:9-10,23

Psalm 32:3-7

2. I now realize that my Creator, God the Father, Son and Holy Spirit, can restore me to wholeness in Christ. Psalm 27:4,5

Ezekiel 36:27

Mark 10:26,27

Philippians 2:13

Romans 8:9

3. I now make a conscious decision to turn my entire will and life over to the care and direction of Jesus Christ as Teacher, Healer, Savior, and Lord. Joshua 1:8,9 John 10:30

Jeremiah 29:11-14 Mark 10:27

Jeremiah 32:27 Matthew 28:18,20b

John 14:6

4. Having made this decision, I now obey God’s call in Scripture to make a fearless, ethical, moral, and Scriptural inventory of my entire life in order to uncover all sins, mistakes, and character defects, and to make a written list of every item uncovered. Psalm 139:23,24

Lamentations 3:40

Jeremiah 23:24

Romans 8:26,27

5. After completing this inventory I now will to “walk in the light, as He is in the light” by admitting to myself, to God, and to at least one other person in Christ the exact nature of these wrongs. 1 John 1:7 Acts 13:38,39

Ephesians 5:13-14 James 5:13-16

Psalm 119:9-11 Hebrews 9:14

1 Timothy 1:15 Acts 2:37-38

6. Having told God about my sinful behavior, I accept His forgiveness through Christ and openly acknowledge that I am forgiven according to the Scripture. 1 John 1:8,9

James 4:10

1 John 2:1,2

Psalm 27:13,14

Psalm 118:18,17

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Appendix Twelve Steps of Wholeness (continued) 7. I now repent (turn away) from all these behaviors in thought, word, and deed, and ask God to remove each besetting sin, through Jesus Christ. Job 11:13-19 John 8:10,11 2 Corinthians 10:3-55

Ezekiel 18:30-32 Romans 5, 6 Colossians 3:17

John 5:14 Romans 12:1,2 1 John 2:3-6

8. I now make a list of all persons I have harmed in thought, word, and deed, and a list of all persons I believe have harmed me, and will to make amends to all of them. Ephesians 4:29-32 Matthew 5:9,43-44

Hosea 11:1-4 Matthew 18:15

Ephesians 5:1,2 Leviticus 19:17,18

Luke 6:31 Mark 12:31

9. I now go directly to these persons to forgive and to seek forgiveness, reconciliation, restitution, or release whenever and with whomever possible, unless to do so would cause further harm. Matthew 5:23,24

Isaiah 1:18-20

10. I now consciously and prayerfully continue to “walk in the light” by unceasingly taking personal inventory of all my temptations and sins, and by keeping a constantly open relationship with God, myself, and other persons. Matthew 6:11-13 Ephesians 5:15-18

Ephesians 4:22-28 Psalm 4:3-5

Colossians 3:13 Psalm 55:22

Proverbs 30:8,9 1 Peter 5:6,7

11. I now continue in regular Scripture study, prayer, worship, and fellowship to increase God’s will in my life. Acts 2:42 Joshua 1:8

Mark 12:28-33 1 Kings 8:56-61

Matthew 6:33 Colossians 3:12-17

Psalm 89:15 Psalm 119:11

12. Recognizing the impact of God in my life, I now intentionally share these principles and their effect with others as God’s Spirit leads, and will to practice these principles in all areas of my life. Micah 6:8 Revelation 12:11

Ephesians 5:8 2 Corinthians 3:17

Psalm 40:8-10 Ephesians 6:10-18

Galatians 5:1

Prepared by Dr. Gary R. Sweeten and Hall B. Schell Published by permission of: Equipping Ministries International, Inc. 640 Northland Blvd., Suite 20 Cincinnati, OH 45241 Phone: 513-742-1100 Email: [email protected] Web: www.equipmin.org

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Appendix

Word Study Index Listed by English Word, Strong’s Number, and Page Number in Lesson

Hebrew Words C Covenant 1285 G Good 2896

45 80

L Lovingkindness 2617

71

P Peace 7965

47

Greek Words A Abba 5 Abide 1696 Adoption 5206 Angel 32 Arrogant 2755

64 42 64 67 98

B Believed 4100 Believing 4102 Blessed 2127 Burdens 922

40 39 42 105

C Carrying 941 Caught 4301 Christ 5547 Circumcised 4059 Comfort 3874 Covenant 1242 Credited 3049 Crucified 4957 Curse 2671 Cursed 1944 D Desires 1939 Deceived 4105

105 105 20 29,84 20 45 40 29 43 43 98 112

Devoted 2206

67

E Envying 5354

98

F Faith 4102 Faithfulness 4102 Flesh 4561 Foolish 453 Formed 3445 Freedom 1657 Fruit 2590

85 95 40,89 39 68 84,89 12

G Gentiles 1484 Gentleness 4236 Get Tired 1573 Good 2570 Good 18 Goodness 19 Gospel 2098 Grace 5485 Guardian 3807 Guided 4748

42 108 112 112 112 80,112 26 29,85 52 98

H Heirs 2818

52

I Idolatry 1495 Impurity 167 Inherit 2816

92 92 93

J Jealousy 2205 Joy 5479 Justified 1344

93 35 29

K Kindness 5544 Kingdom 932

71 93 167

Appendix

Greek Words (continued) L Law 3551 Load 5413 Love 26

168

39 105 23

M Mediator 3316 Minister 1249

52 29

P Passions 3804 Patience 3115 Peace 1515 Promiscuity 766 Promise 1860 Provoking 4292 Put into effect 1299

98 60 47 92 43 98 52

R Redeemed 1805 Restore 2675 Ridiculed 3456 Righteousness 1343 Rivalry 2054

42 105 112 40 92

S Sanctifying 38 35 Self-control 1466 118 Serve 1398 89 Sexual immorality 4202 92 Share 2841 112 Sin 266 52 Spirit 4151 12 T Transgressions 3847 U Uncircumcised 203 W Witchcraft 5331 Works 2041

52 29,85 92 92

Appendix

Bibliography Barnhart, Clarence L and Robert K., editors. The World Book Dictionary. Chicago, World Book, Inc. 1985. Bettenson, Henry. Documents of the Christian Church. London, Oxford Press, 1963. Blackaby, Henry & Richard. Spiritual Leadership. Nashville, Broadman & Holman Publishers, 2001. Bruce, F.F. The Epistle to the Galatians. Grand Rapids, Wm. B. Eerdmans Publishing Co, 1982. Butler, Trent C., editor. Holman Bible Dictionary. Nashville, Holman Bible Publishers, 1991. Cole, R. Alan. The Epistle of Paul to the Galatians. Leicester, Inter-Varsity Press, 1989. Cousar, Charles B. Reading Galatians, Philippians, 1 Thessalonians. Macon, Smyth & Helwys Publishing, 2001. Foster, Richard J. Celebration of Discipline. San Francisco, HarperSan Francisco, 1998. Ironside, H.A. Galatians. New York, Loizeaux Brothers Publishers, 1945. MacArthur, John. Galatians. Chicago, Moody Press, 1987. Meyer, F. B. Through the Bible Day by Day. Philadelphia, American Sunday School Union Press, 1918. Mulholland, M. Robert Jr. Invitation to a Journey. Downers Grove, IL, InterVarsity Press, 1993. Ortberg, John. The Life You’ve Always Wanted. Grand Rapids, Zondervan Publishing, 1997. Russell, Walt. The Flesh/Spirit Conflict in Galatians. Lanham, Maryland, University Press of America, Inc., 1997. Shelly, Rubel. In Step with the Spirit. Grand Rapids, Baker Book House, 1987. Strong, James. Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance. Gordonsville, TN, Dugan Publishers, Inc., 1894. Swindoll, Charles R. Galatians, Letter of Liberation. Insight for Living, 1982. Vine, W.E. Vine’s Expository Dictionary of Old and New Testament Words. Old Tappan, Fleming H. Revell Co., 1981. Wilmington, H.L. http://www.christianity.com/…/1,1183,PTID25304%7CCHID7%&CCIID108853,00.htm Wuest, Kenneth. Wuest’s Word Studies. Grand Rapids, Wm. B. Eerdmans Publishing Co., 1944. Zodhiates, Spiros. The Complete Word Study New Testament. Chattanooga, AMG Publishers, 1991. Zodhiates, Spiros. The Hebrew-Greek Key Study Bible. Chattanooga, AMG Publishers, 1990.

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Sunergos Bible Studies Name of Study: Book Studies: Joshua and the Call to Live Victoriously by Faith The Book of Ruth The Life of David The Book of Nehemiah The Book of Esther Jonah The Sermon on the Mount The Gospel According to Mark The Epistle to the Romans Galatians and the Fruit of the Spirit Ephesians Philippians and the Call to Biblical Fellowship Colossians Titus and the Call to Biblical Discipleship Philemon (Learn the Inductive Bible Study methodology with this short study) James Topical Studies: Old Testament Worship for Followers of Christ Prayers of the Bible Women of the Word Discipleship Series Studies:

Number of Lessons: 10 4 12 8 5 10 14 22 23 10 12 12 9 9 2 11 8 12 12

The format of the Discipleship Series is different, as each lesson is like one day’s work in the other studies.

The Call to Biblical Character – An In-depth Look at the Beatitudes (Matthew 5:10-12) The Call to Bear Fruit by the Power of the Spirit – An In-depth Look at Galatians 5:22, 23 The Call to Live Victoriously by Faith – An In-depth Look at Ephesians 6:10-20 The Call to Biblical Fellowship – An In-depth Look at the “One Another” Commands A Woman’s Call to Biblical Discipleship – An In-depth Look at Titus 2:3-5

11 12 10 12 16

All of these lessons are in-depth inductive Bible studies that encourage the students to examine Scripture through observation before seeking to interpret, while looking for eternal principles in the word that can be applied to their own life. While the studies encourage critical thinking, they also provide some “commentary” from a variety of conservative sources. The studies include instruction for studying inductively, and the work for each lesson has been divided into five days. All studies have been formatted with two options for completing the lessons. The student who has less time for study can complete the opening observation questions which cover the portion of Scripture or theme for the day, and then the student can move to the last question/s which might incorporate other Scriptures and as well as several application questions. The other option is for the student to complete the entire lesson for each day and that would generally take between 30 minutes to one hour. This option includes word studies and an in-depth look at the passage or theme for the day. Leader’s Guides are available for each study to provide resources for those interested in leading a study. Check the Sunergos Bible Studies’ website www.sunergosbible.org for availability, costs, and ordering options. New studies, leader’s guides, and other resources are available from the website.

Book Summary This inductive Bible study focuses on the message for the Christian churches in the region of Galatia by carefully examining the Apostle Paul’s concerns for this group of believers. Each week’s lesson of the in-depth ten-week study also includes a close look at one of the fruit of the Spirit from Galatians 5:22,23 so students can consider its evidence in their own life. The nature and role of the Holy Spirit is studied throughout the lessons. The study provides a number of options for completing the lessons. The study also offers a reflection in Scripture to provide a time of worship as a conclusion to the daily lesson. When a group meets weekly to discuss the lessons, each student will benefit from the suggested review discussions in the accompanying leader’s guide.

Author Profile JAN WELLS has been married forty years, is the mother of two grown children, and a grandmother. A former English and history teacher, Jan has written twenty in-depth, inductive studies reflecting her passion for the Lord and His word. Incorporated in Jan’s writing are a commitment to the importance of the ministry of discipleship within the body of Christ and a sensitivity to the differences in the way people think and learn. Jan, the creator of Sunergos Bible Studies, has taught the Bible to adults for over twenty years in an interdenominational ministry. The author has an M.A. in Christian Ministry from Simpson University (C&MA) and is pursuing an M.Div. from Golden Gate Baptist Theological Seminary (SBC). Sunergos Bible Studies have been used in a number of churches throughout the country and internationally, and because of their thoroughness, they have become valuable resources for many pastors and Bible teachers.