Bible Study - Freedom - Personal Service - Galatians 5 and 6 - July 31, 2011

Bible Study – Freedom – Personal Service – July 31, 2011
This is our final lesson in our series entitled “Freedom: Making It Personal.”
Our scripture is Galatians 5:13-16, 22-26; 6:7-10.

The Apostle Paul was writing to the Christians in Galatia about freedom. The Judaizers were telling the Gentiles who had accepted CHRIST by faith that they had to also obey the law. There was also another group called the “libertines” who believed those who had accepted CHRIST were free to do whatever they pleased.
Since they were secure in CHRIST then live it up.

Christians are free but with freedom comes responsibility. Paul addressed an important issue that all Christians face, which is the rule of the flesh versus the rule of the Spirit in their lives. When the flesh rules, it leads to a whole list of actions and attitudes contrary to having the right relationship with CHRIST. Paul gave this list in Galatians 5:19-21:
19 Now the works of the flesh are obvious:[2][3] sexual immorality, moral impurity, promiscuity, 20 idolatry, sorcery, hatreds, strife, jealousy, outbursts of anger, selfish ambitions, dissensions, factions, 21 envy,[4] drunkenness, carousing, and anything similar, about which I tell you in advance—as I told you before—that those who practice such things will not inherit the kingdom of God.
The libertines likely looked upon these flesh things as a part of being a human. Since a Christian was free, he/she could indulge in them because they were part of their nature as a human. Paul gave the Christians in Galatia another list which reflected the attributes of walking in the Spirit. Walking in the Spirit is living in the Spirit. It is a normal way of life.

Paul addressed the flesh versus the Spirit. The question all Christians need to ask themselves, “Does my walk match my talk?” The only way that can be accomplished is through the right relationship with CHRIST and empowered by the indwelling HOLY SPIRIT.

Christians are grafted into the vine/CHRIST at the moment of salvation. They can allow sin to block this union such that HIS power cannot flow through them to grow and mature into healthy vibrant Christians.

When Christians have a healthy union with CHRIST, HIS love flows from HIM through them. This is agape love, which is self-giving love.

Let’s read Galatians 5:13-15: (My inserts)
13 For you are called to freedom, brothers (Fellow Christians); only don’t use this freedom as an opportunity for the flesh (like the libertines teach), but serve one another through love (which is provided through your union with CHRIST). 14 For the entire law is fulfilled in one statement: Love your neighbor as yourself.[1] 15 But if you bite and devour one another, watch out, or you will be consumed by one another.

Paul was telling his readers that Christians were called to freedom to serve GOD but not to serve the flesh. Freedom from sin and death was to free a Christian from the shackles of sin’s bondage to serve GOD through his/her relationship with CHRIST as directed by the HOLY SPIRIT.

Paul directed his readers to consider that the entire law was summed up in Leviticus 19:18 - 18 Do not take revenge or bear a grudge against members of your community,[21] but love your neighbor as yourself;[22] I am the LORD.

In Mathew 22:34-40, JESUS responded to a question HE was asked by a Pharisee - 34 When the Pharisees heard that He had silenced the Sadducees, they came together in the same place. 35 And one of them, an expert in the law, asked a question to test Him: 36 “Teacher, which commandment in the law is the greatest?”[12]37 He said to him, “Love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind.[13] 38 This is the greatest and most important[14]commandment. 39 The second is like it: Love your neighbor as yourself.[15] 40 All the Law and the Prophets depend[16]on these two commandments.”

The love of GOD resulting from our relationship with HIM flows from us to others. That is why having the right relationship with HIM is vital. When Christians are grafted into the vine (CHRIST), HIS self-giving love is a natural flow from HIM to others. This is a part of the sanctification process. Christians have rough edges that need to be smoothed, which is done by walking in the Spirit.

We see in verse 15, that Christians were using their mouths to devour each other over varying Spiritual matters. In essence, he was saying, “So quit bickering, seek truth and live the truth. Evaluate your life by measuring it against the love CHRIST had for you when HE gave HIS life on the cross for you. This was self-giving love or agape love that can only come from GOD.”

Let’s read Galatians 5:16-18:
16 I say then, • walk by the Spirit and you will not carry out the desire of the flesh. 17 For the flesh desires what is against the Spirit, and the Spirit desires what is against the flesh; these are opposed to each other, so that you don’t do what you want. 18 But if you are led by the Spirit, you are not under the law.
Paul may have anticipated that some Christians would say, “But I am a weak Christian because the desires of the flesh are so strong. The libertines tell us that since we are Christians housed in a body of flesh, we can follow the desires of our flesh.” Paul, in essence, said, “Do not focus on the flesh because you are dead to the flesh (our last week’s study). You are to walk in the Spirit. When you walk in the Spirit you will be led by GOD and not the desires of the flesh.”

Paul tells us that the desires of the flesh are against the leadership of the HOLY SPIRIT. A Christian cannot serve two (2) masters – flesh and the Spirit. Each has different and conflicting desires. If you desire to walk in the flesh you are under the law and will be judged accordingly. If you walk in the Spirit and are led by the Spirit you are truly free because the HOLY SPIRIT will never lead you into things contrary to the will of GOD. When a Christian is in right relationship with CHRIST, then he/she is always in the center of the will of GOD.

In our next scripture, Paul gives us a list of attributes which reflect evidence of the working of the HOLY SPIRIT in our lives.

Let’s read Galatians 5:22-26:
22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faith,[5] 23 gentleness, self-control. Against such things there is no law. 24 Now those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. 25 If we live by the Spirit, we must also follow the Spirit. 26 We must not become conceited, provoking one another, envying one another.

Paul gave his readers a list of things produced by a life that obeys the desires of the flesh in verses 19-21. In this scripture, he gave them a list of the attributes of a life led by the indwelling HOLY SPIRIT.

First, note that he used the word “fruit.” It is not fruits but one fruit yielding a variety of attributes. Also, that fruit has a seed inside that is capable of bearing more fruit when planted in the right soil and in the right conditions. Therefore, when our lives reveal the fruit of the SPIRIT, it plants the seed in the lives of others. Just as GOD’S Word is a seed that is planted in our hearts to produce a Spiritual crop to the glory of GOD, when it falls upon good ground, so is the seed produced by the fruit of the Spirit.

Paul gave his readers and us today a list of nine (9) attributes of lives led by the HOLY SPIRIT. He began with love. Paul had in mind self-giving love or agape love. Agape love gives without demanding anything in return. This is not saying that Christians are to be door mats.

When I think of agape love, other than what CHRIST did by giving HIS life for us while we were still sinners, I think of my loving wife. To me she is my earthly example of agape love.

Love – When Christians love (agape) it is the same love that GOD and CHRIST have for us. To me love, “ah la” agape, is not a bend over backwards, step on me type of love. It is an honest deep caring love that deals with a situation honestly. GOD loves all humans with agape love but HE also gives all a choice – heaven or hell. Accept CHRIST and receive all the benefits of being HIS child or reject CHRIST and suffer the consequences.

JESUS tells us in John 5:24 - 24 “I assure you: Anyone who hears My word and believes Him who sent Me has eternal life and will not come under judgment but has passed from death to life.

John 3:16-18 - 16 “For God loved the world in this way: He gave His • One and Only Son, so that everyone who believes in Him will not perish but have eternal life.[10] 17 For God did not send His Son into the world that He might condemn the world, but that the world might be saved through Him. 18 Anyone who believes in Him is not condemned, but anyone who does not believe is already condemned, because he has not believed in the name of the • One and Only Son of God.

John 14:6 - 6 Jesus told him (Thomas), “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me.

John 10:10 - 10 The thief cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy: I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly. (KJV)

GOD gives all people a choice. HE has unconditional love for all and the freedom to choose. Who do you choose – CHRIST or Satan?

Love asks the question, provides an accurate account of the consequences and gives the opportunity but leaves the choice to the individual.

Joy – Is that which comes from having an intimate relationship with GOD through CHRIST. This joy is not dependent upon pleasant circumstances. It is the internal knowing and awareness of a loving SAVIOR regardless of the circumstances. It is an awareness of the indwelling presence of GOD and being secure in HIM. What joy that our salvation and the salvation of others brings. It is overwhelming.

Peace – Is connected to joy. Peace is peace of mind and Spirit. It is peace in the midst of the storms of life because we are secure in CHRIST. It is like the peace JESUS had when HE was fast asleep in a boat during a storm on the sea that frightened HIS seafaring disciples. HE was at peace that HIS FATHER was in control.

Patience – Is longsuffering – No one likes to suffer. Longsuffering is not suffering, it is patience. It is the opposite to those who have short-tempers. (Ouch!! That steps on my foot.) Those who have this character do not explode with anger.

Kindness – Is gentleness. It is an attribute of agape love that leads Christians to forgive those who hurt them. This is very hard to do without having the right relationship with GOD through CHRIST.

Goodness – Describes a Christian’s attitude toward others. It is an attribute of agape love.

Faith – Is a vital ingredient in obediently serving GOD. It is responding to the call of GOD without hesitation. It is built upon the fact that we know and trust GOD such that when HE says act, we act. And just as important, when HE says stop, we stop.

Gentleness – Is meekness. I used to think of meekness as weakness. It is far from that notion. I read once that meekness is having the power to do something but the self–control not to use it unless needed. It is like a mighty horse. It has great power and it is ready for action but waits upon its rider to say giddy-up. Christians have the power of GOD in their lives but wait upon HIM to lead them into action. When HE says move, we are to respond.

I recall the story of a young lady kidnapped by a serial killer placed her in the trunk of his car. She said something to the effect, “If there is a GOD, please help me now.” The cords which bound her were broken. She found the latch in the trunk of the car and popped it open. The killer saw the trunk lid flapping. She closed it when the killer pulled over to check the trunk. He checked it and it was closed. He got back into his car and tried to leave but got stuck. She popped the trunk and ran. The killer jumped out of the car and chased her with a machete. It so happened that two (2) either former or current Marines just happened to be coming down this dirt road in a truck as she ran from her would be killer. She was naked from the waist down. The killer saw the vehicle coming toward her and got back in his car and sped off. She is the only survivor I think of eight (8) women who were brutally killed.

GOD is great and comes to our aid in times of need. I know there will be other stories where HE did not. I cannot explain why HE didn’t. Only HE knows and that is when we have to trust in HIS sovereignty. If you get in a bad situation, ask GOD to help you. If you are a Christian, claim the blood of JESUS. There is power in the shed blood of JESUS.

Self-control - Is temperance. We are GOD’S Sons or Daughters and HE is our FATHER. It is living life under GOD’S control and not us flying off in our own direction. GOD dwells within us and we are the temple of the HOLY SPIRIT.
These attributes of the HOLY SPIRIT working within a life comes from within and not the result of obeying the law.

The fruit of the Spirit is manifested through lives in right relationship with HIM, which are lives surrendered (dead to self) to HIM – “Here I am LORD, use me.” Fruit is produced as Christians go through the process of sanctification in everyday life. This is where we get to really know GOD. Christians are to consider that they are dead to the influence and control of sin. Their human spirit is considered dead but their born-again Spirit is alive to obediently serve GOD by walking (living daily) in the Spirit. Paul said it best in Galatians 2:19-20 - 19 For through the law I have died to the law, that I might live to God. I have been crucified with Christ; 20 and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I now live in the flesh,[10] I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself for me.

Our part is to walk in the Spirit. Walking in the Spirit is a way of life. It is not focusing on, “Am I producing fruit in my life?” You will produce fruit when you walk in the Spirit with GOD. An apple tree or a peach tree does not have to worry about producing apples or peaches. They bear their intended fruit. Others may see the fruit in our lives before we do or we may never see the fruit until judgment day. It does not matter. What matters is obediently serving GOD as HE directs and being willing to respond when HE issues the invitation.

How do we recognize invitation? Dr. Henry Blackaby puts it best in “Experiencing God” published by LifeWay Press, One LifeWay Plaza, Nashville, TN 37235-0175, “When you see the Father at work around you, that is your invitation to adjust your life to Him and join Him in that work.”

When GOD works in our lives, we are not to become conceited or to think more highly of ourselves than those not as “Spiritual.” Satan uses every trick in the book to damage the witness of those obediently walking in the Spirit. That is why a healthy relationship with CHRIST is vital and gives the Christian balance. When GOD works through other Christians, sometimes we may think that HE is working through them in a mightier way than through us. Don’t be fooled or misled.

Whatever GOD calls you to do is just as important to HIM and HIS plan and purpose as those things which we as humans consider to be greater or showier. Remember GOD considers a cup of cold water very important. It is not the perceived size of GOD’S call from a human perspective but the obedience of the heart responding.

Let’s read Galatians 6:7-10:
7 Don’t be deceived: God is not mocked. For whatever a man sows he will also reap, 8 because the one who sows to his flesh will reap corruption from the flesh, but the one who sows to the Spirit will reap eternal life from the Spirit. 9 So we must not get tired of doing good, for we will reap at the proper time if we don’t give up. 10 Therefore, as we have opportunity, we must work for the good of all, especially for those who belong to the household of faith.

Satan is a deceiver and lies. Paul used an example to which his readers could relate, farming. When you sow wheat, you get wheat. When you sow tomato seed you get a tomato plant that produces tomatoes. The seed you put into the ground yields a crop. When a person, Christian or non-Christian sows seed, he/she will reap what he/she plants – good or bad. Sowing is doing. It is an action and all people sow seeds and reap the crop. If Christians want to reap a Spiritual crop, then they are to walk in the Spirit.

Christians are living each day. They are either led by the SPIRIT or by their own desires. When they are in right relationship with CHRIST e.g. grafted into the vine, then the natural result is fruit of the Spirit. An apple tree does not have to worry and work hard to try to produce apples. It is an apple tree and it naturally produces apples. It is the same with a Spirit led Christian. He/she needs to abide in CHRIST and allow HIS life to flow through him/her and he/she will produce fruit of the Spirit. Stay connected to the vital nutrients.

GOD’S Word is seed. The stuff we feed or allow into our minds are also seeds – television, movies, internet, literature, sensual, unhealthy or corrupt things dwelled upon and the list goes on and on. Meditate upon GOD’S Word, talk to HIM in prayer and walk with HIM in the Spirit on a moment by moment basis. Allow the Spirit led life to become the natural result of the sanctification process, which is for Christians to be made into the image of CHRIST.

Our human nature likes to see results, now. When we walk in the Spirit, time and timing are vital. Once a seed is planted it needs to die and be transformed into a living plant, which will bear fruit. Seeds need the proper soil, water, sunlight, and nutrients. It takes time. Christians are to wait upon GOD and not loose heart because they do not see immediate results. In due time there will be a harvest that glorifies GOD. This applies to their own lives, to the lives of others and the things GOD calls them to accomplish.

This is especially true of fellow believers. Often, we work with folks, especially those with addictions who take one step forward and three steps backwards. We are not to lose heart but press toward the final goal.

Freedom in CHRIST comes with responsibility. Christians are free to do whatever they please but they are accountable for their actions and the consequences for their sins. They reap what they sow, good or bad. They will always be GOD’S Sons or Daughters which will never change but GOD rewards obedience. Rewards are stored in the heavenly treasury.

Stay connected to the true vine, CHRIST, so that vital Spiritual nutrients will flow from HIM to you, and you will bear much fruit. It is all about having and maintaining the right relationship with CHRIST. The vine connected to the branches produces the fruit, which is part of the natural process of a healthy relationship. Abide in that knowledge and rest in HIM as HE works through you. Blessings.

Bible Study - Freedom -Personal Responsibility - Romans 5 and 6 - July 24, 2011

Bible Study – Freedom – Personal Responsibility – July 24, 2011
This is lesson four (4) in our series entitled “Freedom: Making It Personal.”
Our scripture is Romans 5:12-20; 6: 1-23.

In our last lesson, we explored how sin came into the world through Adam and Eve. Since, GOD made Adam responsible for the garden, GOD held him accountable for what went on in the garden. Thus sin and its consequence, which is death, came through Adam, which included Eve and all human beings from that time forward. GOD intended for all of mankind to live forever, thus the tree of life was in the garden. GOD DID NOT place any restrictions on Adam or Eve regarding the tree of life until they sinned. Then HE protected them from partaking of the tree to keep them from living forever in their fallen state. Sin broke their relationship and fellowship with GOD. GOD knew what would happen, thus HE planned to redeem/buy back/purchase through the shed blood of JESUS, all who would believe by faith in HIS ONLY SON, JESUS.

Once the barrier of sin had been broken by the shed blood of CHRIST, the relationship and fellowship with GOD would be restored for all who have faith in CHRIST. All who believe in CHRIST are made righteous, are born into GOD’S family, receive eternal life, receive the HOLY SPIRIT, their citizenship in heaven, they have died and buried, been resurrected, ascended, returned to earth and live upon earth to obediently serve GOD. All of that happened at the moment of salvation. This is a lot to comprehend.

Dying to self is the theme of this lesson. Paul, in essence, was telling his readers then and us today, that Christians should consider themselves dead and that they have been resurrected to obediently serve GOD as HIS Sons and Daughters. Let’s explore.

We need to keep in mind 2 Corinthians 5:21 - 21 He (GOD) made the One (JESUS) who did not know sin to be sin for us, so that we (those who believe in HIM/Christians) might become the righteousness of God in Him – as we read our next scripture.

Let’s read Romans 5:12-20: (Background and Lead-in for our Scripture.)

Death through Adam and Life through Christ (My insertions)
12 Therefore, just as sin entered the world through one man (Adam), and death through sin, in this way death spread to all men, because all sinned.[3] 13 In fact, sin was in the world before the law, but sin is not charged to one’s account when there is no law. 14 Nevertheless, death reigned from Adam to Moses, even over those who did not sin in the likeness of Adam’s transgression (sin). He (Adam) is a prototype of the Coming One (JESUS). 15 But the gift (righteousness/eternal life) is not like the trespass (sin/death). For if by the one man’s (Adam’s) trespass the many died, how much more have the grace of God and the gift (righteousness) overflowed to the many by the grace of the one man, Jesus Christ. 16 And the gift is not like the one man’s sin (Adam), because from one sin came the judgment (death), resulting in condemnation, but from many trespasses came the gift (righteousness), resulting in justification (just-as-if-I-never-sinned).[4] 17 Since by the one man’s trespass (Adam), death reigned through that one man (Adam), how much more will those who receive the overflow of grace and the gift of righteousness reign in life through the one man, Jesus Christ. 18 So then, as through one trespass there is condemnation for everyone (Adam), so also through one righteous act there is life-giving justification[5] for everyone (CHRIST). 19 For just as through one man’s (Adam) disobedience the many were made sinners, so also through the one man’s obedience (CHRIST) the many will be made righteous. 20 The law came along to multiply the trespass. But where sin multiplied, grace multiplied even more, 21 so that, just as sin reigned in death, so also grace will reign through righteousness, resulting in eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.

GOD’S gift of grace is more than sufficient to blot out any sin a Christian commits after he/she receives CHRIST as his/her SAVIOR.

Paul anticipated that some of his readers might think, “Well, if grace is multiplied to cover all sin, then Christians should sin more so they can have more grace.” Paul addressed that statement in our next scripture.

Let’s read Romans 6:1-7:
The New Life in Christ
1 What should we say then? Should we continue in sin in order that grace may multiply? 2 Absolutely not! How can we who died to sin still live in it? 3 Or are you unaware that all of us who were baptized[1] into Christ Jesus were baptized into His death? 4 Therefore we were buried with Him by baptism into death, in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, so we too may • walk in a new way[2] of life. 5 For if we have been joined with Him in the likeness of His death, we will certainly also be[3] in the likeness of His resurrection. 6 For we know that our old self[4][5] was crucified with Him in order that sin’s dominion over the body[6] may be abolished, so that we may no longer be enslaved to sin, 7 since a person who has died is freed[7] from sin’s claims.[8]

Paul goes to the heart of our lesson. In essence, since Christians have died to sin, how can they continue to sin? WOW, that is a profound statement. Paul explains his statement using the symbolism of baptism. We could get into all sorts of discussion regarding baptism. Being a Baptist, I believe baptism by immersion captures Paul’s explanation. Baptism is an outward example of what has already happened in a Christian’s life at the instant he/she asked CHRIST into his/her life. Baptism symbolizes a Christian dying to his/her old life, being buried and being resurrected to walk in his/her new life, in CHRIST.

We discussed in last week’s lesson about taking off our old clothes or our old life and putting on our new clothes or our new life in CHRIST. It is the same idea as baptism. In CHRIST our old life has been put to death. When CHRIST died all believers in HIM died and when HE was resurrected, all believers were resurrected with HIM. Thus, Paul was saying a Christian was in essence already dead to sin. A dead person cannot sin because he/she is already dead and has no earthly senses.

I know, I can hear some saying, “Only if that were true.” It is true, only we have not reckoned or considered it so through the sanctification process. GOD’S desire is for Christians to be made into the image of CHRIST. Christians have salvation, been made righteous, have been justified, have received the indwelling HOLY SPIRIT, have eternal life, have been born into GOD’S family, have died with CHRIST, have been buried with CHRIST, have been resurrected with CHRIST, have ascended into heaven with CHRIST and sent back to earth to live obediently for GOD and be HIS witnesses to all the world. CHRIST has conquered sin and as Christians, sin has no power over them. Consider that sin has been conquered through the victory of CHRIST through HIS shed blood for you. Claim the blood of JESUS over the power of sin and live victorious. Now, that is a lot to ponder.

So why do we struggle? The flesh still rules. Keep in mind, sanctification is a process. We live in the world of flesh and are being transformed by the renewing of our minds into the image of CHRIST.In the animal world it is called metamorphic, a worm changes to a cocoon and then to a beautiful butterfly. In the Christian world we call it sanctification – salvation, sanctification (Think of this as the stage where the work is done to produce that beautiful butterfly), glorification.

Keep in mind 1 John 1:9: 9 If we (Christians) confess our sins, He (GOD) is faithful and righteous to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.

Christians must press on to the finish line, which is sanctification, and claim the victory which is our Glorification. When we see JESUS we will be like HIM.

Let’s read Romans 6:8-11:
8 Now if we died with Christ, we believe that we will also live with Him, 9 because we know that Christ, having been raised from the dead, no longer dies. Death no longer rules over Him. 10 For in that He died, He died to sin once for all; but in that He lives, He lives to God. 11 So, you too consider yourselves dead to sin, but alive to God in Christ Jesus.[9]

Dying to self is a mindset empowered by the indwelling HOLY SPIRIT and yielding of our human will to HIS will. It is easy to say but hard to do because we must consider or reckon ourselves dead to any influence of sin, which we are through the process of sanctification. Paul stated in 1 Corinthians 15:31, “I die daily.” Sin has NO influence over us because we are secure in CHRIST.

JESUS said it best when HE prayed in the Garden before HIS crucifixion, “Not MY will but THY will be done.” CHRIST told HIS disciples that they must take up their cross daily.

To me the ultimate release from the rule of the flesh to the Spirit was when CHRIST hung on the cross. HE had the power and HE knew HE had the power to call legions of angels to release HIM from the cross and remain a human. Or HE could choose to give up HIS earthly life to conquer sin. HE chose to die for you and for me, so that all who believe in HIM will live eternally in relationship, fellowship and complete union with GOD as HIS Sons and Daughters. But guess what? HE gave up HIS human life to be given HIS human life back by GOD in the form of HIS glorified body for eternity.

Satan lures people every day into reaching for the gusto and living life to its fullest in the flesh – drugs, sex, alcohol, gambling, and the list goes on and on. Satan tells them, “Who needs CHRIST or there is plenty of time, so live it up now.” Wrong!!! It is the message of Satan. He tempted JESUS and he will tempt you as well. But in the end those who follow the desires of the world/flesh loose both their physical and Spiritual life. Don’t let Satan rob you of the joy of your salvation and living the abundant Christian life through the indwelling HOLY SPIRIT. Satan is a deceiver and a liar. His goal is to destroy you any way he can. Don’t let him do it. Seek CHRIST now!!!

Let’s read Romans 6:12-14:
12 Therefore do not let sin reign in your mortal body, so that you obey[10] its desires. 13 And do not offer any parts[11] of it to sin as weapons for unrighteousness. But as those who are alive from the dead, offer yourselves to God, and all the parts[12] of yourselves to God as weapons for righteousness. 14 For sin will not rule over you, because you are not under law but under grace.

GOD does not make us into robots after we are born into HIS family. HE gives us freewill to choose. Christians are empowered by the HOLY SPIRIT but live in a body of flesh. We still must choose who we will serve on a daily basis – GOD or the desires of the flesh. Some may say, “Gee, you are talking in circles. You say a Christians is dead to sin.” Yes, Christians are dead to what sin can do to their born-again bodies. If, we consider ourselves dead, then we will not allow any earthly thing to get into our way when we obediently serve GOD. All fear is gone because we are already dead. Does this mean we are to take stupid chances? NO!!! Satan tried to entice JESUS to jump off the top of the temple. JESUS did not fall for it. Only obey GOD as HE leads you.

Let’s read Romans 6:15-18:
From Slaves of Sin to Slaves of God (You are a slave.)
15 What then? Should we sin because we are not under law but under grace? Absolutely not! 16 Do you not know that if you offer yourselves to someone[13] as obedient slaves, you are slaves of that one you obey—either of sin leading to death or of obedience leading to righteousness? 17 But thank God that, although you used to be slaves of sin, you obeyed from the heart that pattern of teaching you were entrusted to, 18 and having been liberated from sin, you became enslaved to righteousness.

Paul was saying that people are slaves to something – the things of the world, the flesh or to the things of the Spirit. He rejoiced in the fact that the Christians in Roman had chosen to become slaves of righteousness.

All Christians have that same choice today. Who is your master? Is it various addictions and sensual pleasures that rob you of your relationship with CHRIST? Is it GOD indwelling your life and leading you and guiding you as HE desires? The choice is yours. Choose CHRIST while there is still time.

Let’s read Romans 6:19-23:

19 I am using a human analogy[14] because of the weakness of your flesh.[15] For just as you offered the parts[16] of yourselves as slaves to moral impurity, and to greater and greater lawlessness, so now offer them as slaves to righteousness, which results in sanctification. 20 For when you were slaves of sin, you were free from allegiance to righteousness.[17] 21 And what fruit was produced[18] then from the things you are now ashamed of? For the end of those things is death. 22 But now, since you have been liberated from sin and become enslaved to God, you have your fruit, which results in sanctification[19]—and the end is eternal life! 23 For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.

This is a good summary. We have all served the flesh but once we asked CHRIST to forgive us and to come into our lives, we have been set free from the bondage and power of sin and received eternal life. We are no longer slaves to sin but have chosen to become enslaved by GOD.

First John 4:4: 4 You are from God, little children, and you have conquered them, because the One (CHRIST) who is in you is greater than the one (Satan) who is in the world.

Verse 23 is a verse we all need to memorize - 23 For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.

Do you choose eternal death or eternal life? Choosing CHRIST means choosing eternal life. HE is the only ONE to conquer death. Do you choose a living SAVIOR? The choice is yours; please accept CHRIST right now as your SAVIOR. Blessings!!!

Bible Study - Freedom - Personal Relationship - Galatians 4 and 1 John 1 and 1 John 3 - July 17,2011

Bible Study – Freedom – Personal Relationship – July 17, 2011
This is lesson three (3) in our series entitled “Freedom: Making It Personal.”
Our scripture is Galatians 4:1-7; 1 John 1:5-9; 3:1-3.

In our first two (2) lessons in this series of study, we have seen that doing as we please (libertinism) or legalism (strictly following the law) does not bring freedom but brings slavery/bondage. Our lesson this week focuses on true freedom that is found by having a personal relationship with CHRIST.

As you recall, Paul had established the church in Galatia. He knew that the Christians in Galatia knew the truth yet they had allowed Judaizers to come into their midst and teach a false gospel. The Judaizers were teaching that in order for a Gentile to become a Christian, after having received CHRIST by faith, they had to be circumcised and follow the Jewish laws, rules and regulations. When Paul heard this he was livid.

Paul had told his readers that the law was given to reveal their sin and the victory over sin was faith in CHRIST. CHRIST alone conquered sin and death. Faith in HIM frees those who believe in HIM from the bondage of the law to obediently and freely serve GOD through CHRIST because of the indwelling HOLY SPIRIT.

The goal of every human is to be pleasing and acceptable to the true GOD of the universe. Humans have a basic instinct, urge and desire to have a relationship with GOD, thus humans use various ways to reach GOD, which Paul referred to as rudimentary or elemental. GOD has revealed that the way to HIM is through being justified and being righteous – sinless, perfect. When they are acceptable/perfect according to GOD’S requirement, they receive GOD’S Spirit WHO indwells them forever. Humans try to live a sinless, perfect life but fail.

GOD revealed HIS plan for salvation and perfection to Abraham long before the law came into the world. Faith was the way to GOD. GOD ordered the law through a mediator, Moses. HE allowed the law as a standard to reveal the wickedness of humans. The law was a type of master to guide all humans, especially the Jews to the truth. It allows all to see that they miss the mark of perfection when trying to follow the law. GOD had promised Abraham that the SAVIOR, the Messiah, CHRIST would come through his lineage at just the right time to fulfill the law. Until the Messiah came, faith in HIS coming would serve as a placeholder. CHRIST would fulfill the law and deliver those of faith from the slavery/bondage of the law. GOD’S grace extends to those looking forward to the cross and those looking backward to the cross.

GOD gave CHRIST permission to come to earth at just the right moment in time – Greek language was common, good transportation system and peace (Roman rule). CHRIST chose to come to earth and live as a human. HE was tempted in every way as humans, yet without sin. CHRIST represented GOD. JESUS disciples wanted to see GOD and JESUS told them in John 14:9 - 9 Jesus said to him (Philip), “Have I been among you all this time without your knowing Me, Philip? The one who has seen Me has seen the Father. How can you say, ‘Show us the Father’?

CHRIST was 100% human but also 100% divine. CHRIST gave HIS sinless, perfect life on the cross and became sin for all who believe in HIM to be set free from sin and death. GOD’S plan was in place before HE created the world. GOD revealed HIS plan to Abraham through his life of faith, and completed HIS revelation through the life, death, resurrection and ascension of CHRIST. The way to GOD is faith in CHRIST.

GOD called Abraham to follow HIM. Abraham responded by faith to HIS call. As a result of Abraham’s faith, GOD revealed the path back to HIM. Let’s go back to the Garden of Eden. Adam and Eve had a personal relationship with GOD. They walked with GOD and talked with HIM but when they sinned they lost that fellowship. Sin and its consequences came into earth, which is eternal separation from GOD and resulted in physical as well as Spiritual death. GOD’S plan is to restore that original relationship HE had with HIS children through faith in the promise of the coming Messiah, JESUS, through the lineage of Abraham. Those living in Old Testament times were looking forward to the cross and the promised Messiah. Since the passion of CHRIST and HIS resurrection, Christians are looking back to the cross. Abraham had faith such that if he had sacrificed Isaac, GOD would have raised him from the dead. That is powerful faith. GOD honored that faith by equating it to righteousness. Faith in GOD resulted in GOD declaring Abraham righteous. Faith in CHRIST makes Christians righteous such that they can be indwelled by the HOLY SPIRIT. (2 Corinthians 5:21)

Paul builds on this message to help the Christians in Galatia to see the fallacy in having the Gentile converts follow the law. Faith in CHRIST was all that was needed for salvation.

Let’s read Galatians 3:27-29: Sons and Heirs
27 For as many of you as have been baptized into Christ have put on Christ. 28 There is no Jew or Greek, slave or free, male or female; for you are all one in Christ Jesus. 29 And if you are Christ’s, then you are Abraham’s seed, heirs according to the promise.

Paul used the words “put on CHRIST” to show that those in CHRIST had taken off their old clothes of following the law or paganism and had put on their new clothes provided by the passion of CHRIST - forgiveness from sin, which is salvation, eternal life, the miracle of the rebirth into the family of GOD, citizenship in heaven, being justified, made righteous and indwelled by the HOLY SPIRIT. In essence Paul was saying, “So why in heavens name would you revert back to telling these Gentile converts that they have to follow the law when GOD has given all of this plus Grace!”

Paul continued by saying, that being a descendant of Abraham is not the result of physical descent, it is by faith. Abraham was obedient to GOD’S call, as a result of his faith in GOD; GOD promised him that HE would:
- HE would make him into a great nation. We generally think of the Jews being this great nation, which physically it is but GOD was referring to the nation of believers – Christians – Jews, Gentiles, slaves, free, male, female, all races, all people having faith in CHRIST are one in CHRIST.
- GOD would bless him and his Spiritual descendants – Christians.
- GOD would make his name great.
- As a result Abraham would be a blessing.
- GOD will bless those who bless him.
- GOD will curse those who curse him.
- All peoples on earth will be blessed through him because CHRIST will be a physical descendant of Abraham.

All of GOD’S promises belong to Christians. All of these promises require faith and come as a result of people of faith being born from a common Spiritual seed (GOD), through faith in CHRIST. These are promises the law cannot provide. GOD is the FATHER and because HE is the FATHER of all who believe in CHRIST, those born-again through CHRIST are heirs to all GOD has for them. Before they accept CHRIST as their SAVIOR, they are controlled by the basic things people use to find a relationship with GOD – the law, worshiping graven images, satisfying the flesh and the list goes on and on. These things can lead to GOD/CHRIST but each person must decide whether or not to accept CHRIST when their Spiritual eyes are opened. It is GOD’S job to reveal truth in every person’s heart but GOD leaves the choice to that person. GOD never sends a person to Hell; the person chooses Heaven or Hell.

Paul continued his discussion on the importance of faith in CHRIST for salvation versus the law in our next scripture.

Let’s read Galatians 4:1-7:
1 Now I say that as long as the heir is a child, he differs in no way from a slave, though he is the owner of everything. 2 Instead, he is under guardians and stewards until the time set by his father. 3 In the same way we also, when we were children, were in slavery under the elemental forces of the world. 4 But when the completion of the time came, God sent His Son, born of a woman,[1] born under the law, 5 to redeem those under the law, so that we might receive adoption as sons. 6 And because you are sons, God has sent the Spirit of His Son into our[2] hearts, crying, “• Abba, Father!” 7 So you are no longer a slave, but a son; and if a son, then an heir through God.

Paul used the subject of inheritance to make his point of what it means to be a child of the promise. Even though a child’s father is wealthy, as long as he is a child, what his father has does not belong to him. He is treated like a slave. The child is under the influence of those who will develop him and prepare him for the moment that his father gives him his inheritance. What does this mean from a Spiritual point-of-view?

The Israelites or people in general are like children who need to be tutored, disciplined and guided to the point the father sees that the children have been prepared to receive the inheritance/salvation. Paul said that the law can guide a person to the point of him/her seeing the need of salvation but the law cannot provide salvation. It takes a step of faith for a person to receive salvation through CHRIST. Only GOD knows the heart of a person and HE issues the invitation for that person to take that step of faith. The sad thing is that a person may reject CHRIST. GOD gives freedom to every person who has or will ever live the right to accept or reject HIS invitation of salvation.

Paul told his readers that all of us have been under the influence of elemental forces – paganism, the law, following rules, regulations, rituals, spiritual forces, Satan, evil spirits, etc. Paul being a Pharisee was under the strict belief that the way to salvation was through the law prior to his encounter with CHRIST. However, once he encountered CHRIST he saw the fallacy in the law and found glorious freedom in CHRIST.

At just the right moment in time, GOD allowed HIS ONLY SON to come to earth to be born of a virgin young lady, to be born under the law, to fulfill the law, live a sinless life and give HIS life by shedding HIS blood to redeem (to buy back) all who would believe in HIM. This removed the sin barrier to usher in the miracle of the rebirth for believers to become HIS Sons or Daughters. Paul referred to adoption. Adoption carries all the privileges of natural birth children. In the adoption process, it is the father’s action that begins the adoption process. The process does not start with the child. The Apostle John referred to the process as rebirth.

JESUS told the Jewish Rabbi, Nicodemus, in John Chapter 3 that a person must be born-again. The process of adoption or rebirth means that a Christian has been restored to the status of the greatest relationship of all – a Son or Daughter of GOD with all the rights and privileges GOD has for HIS children. Now that is something to rejoice about and ponder.

Paul referred to the Trinity – GOD the FATHER, sent HIS ONLY SON, JESUS so that all who believe in HIM by faith can receive the HOLY SPIRIT in their hearts. The HOLY SPIRIT assures and confirms a Christian’s step of faith and leads, guides, enlightens, empowers, teaches, instructs and much more as he/she walks daily with HIM.

A Christian’s relationship with GOD is such that he/she can bebop into HIS very throne room and call HIM Daddy. This is not to trivialize our relationship with GOD but to reveal the intimate and free access we have with GOD through CHRIST. GOD’S children are always welcome to approach HIM regardless of what they may have done because salvation is complete and eternal. Christians are forever justified and righteous before HIM because of HIS marvelous grace.

So why do Christians need to confess their sins? It is to maintain the right relationship with GOD and obediently serve HIM as HE directs through the HOLY SPIRIT. A Christian never looses his/her salvation but their dynamic relationship can be blocked by sin. Remember that we discussed rewards and the Heavenly Treasury. GOD’S desire is for all of HIS children to be made into the image of HIS SON, JESUS and that requires the right relationship with HIM through CHRIST.

GOD’S redemptive plan is to restore relationship and fellowship with HIM through faith in CHRIST. GOD does not force HIS children to obediently serve HIM. HIS desire is that HIS children serve HIM because they love HIM and adore HIM and because HE is their loving FATHER. Since Christians are truly free, what does that mean? Let’s explore in our next scripture.

Let’s read 1 John 1:5-10: Fellowship with God
5 Now this is the message we have heard from Him and declare to you: God is light, and there is absolutely no darkness in Him. 6 If we say, “We have fellowship with Him,” and • walk in darkness,[4] we are lying and are not practicing[5] the truth. 7 But if we walk in the light as He Himself is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus His Son cleanses us from all sin. 8 If we say, “We have no sin,” we are deceiving ourselves, and the truth is not in us. 9 If we confess our sins, He is faithful and righteous to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. 10 If we say, “We have not sinned,” we make Him a liar, and His word is not in us.

The Apostle John was writing to Christians in general. The letter is considered a pastoral letter written to several Gentile congregations. It was written about 85-90 A.D. from Ephesus. This was before he was sent to the Island of Patmos. The temple in Jerusalem had been destroyed in 70 A.D. and Christians had scattered to other areas. Christians had been persecuted and their commitment was declining and they were conforming to the world’s standards. They were blending into society. False teachers had sprung up and created a problem for the Christians who were not on a firm Spiritual foundation. Some false teachers were teaching that they did not sin, they were above sin. Yet they were walking in darkness. John wrote his letter in an effort to put Christians back on track by addressing the light and darkness or truth versus error. Light always reveals things as they are; especially Spiritual light in the midst of Spiritual darkness. By their fruits will you know whether or not they walk the talk.

John told his readers to discern between truth and error by viewing matters in GOD’S light because GOD is light. Apparently some Christians were claiming that they were Spiritually sound and walking with CHRIST but their walk proved differently. John challenged Christians to examine their lives and the lives of fellow Christians in the light of GOD’S Word. Were they fooling themselves and were they being deceived into thinking they were following CHRIST when they were actually following the dictates of the world/flesh?

One measure of a Christian’s walk is the fellowship he/she has with GOD and with fellow Christians. Do you have fellowship with CHRIST? If so, do you have fellowship with fellow Christians? If you are not in fellowship with CHRIST, why not? Is it sin in your life? Sin blocks fellowship with CHRIST and with fellow Christians. Remember that the shed blood of CHRIST cleanses a Christian from all sin. Have you been misled by false teaching? If you say you have no sin, then you have been deceived and you need to confess it before GOD.

Verse 9, is a verse every Christian must memorize. Yes, Christians are forgiven of all sin – past, present and future - by the shed blood of CHRIST but we still sin. We are still GOD’S children and nothing will ever change that fact but sin breaks our fellowship with HIM. Confession is agreeing with GOD that we have allowed something to come into our lives, which is contrary to HIS desire for us and it is interfering with our relationship with HIM. We must keep in mind that GOD’S Spiritual goal for HIS children is to be made in the image of JESUS. Notice, a Christian’s part is to confess, repent (stop doing it) and GOD’S part is to forgive, cleanse and restore.

We live in a physical world and are surrounded by a spirit world. Satan’s desire is to defeat every Christian. When a Christian fails to confess their sin, it is a flag that he/she is trying to hide it. That is all Satan needs to attack the Christian and try to lure him/her into deeper sin. Christians are in spiritual warfare. Do hot give the enemy any opening to compromise your relationship with CHRIST. Be up front with GOD and hide nothing. Confess all thoughts and acts of commission or omission that are contrary to HIS will. Make your life an open book before HIM. Often, it is not pretty but you place it in the light and you do not hide it in your heart. GOD already knows, be honest with HIM because HE cares for you. How much does HE care - Enough to send HIS SON to die for your sins!

John was very clear in verse 10 – “If we say, “We have not sinned,” we make Him a liar, and His word is not in us.”

Let’s read 1 John 3:1-3:
1 Look at how great a love[1] the Father has given us, that we should be called God’s children. And we are! The reason the world does not know us is that it didn’t know Him. 2 Dear friends, we are God’s children now, and what we will be has not yet been revealed. We know that when He appears, we will be like Him, because we will see Him as He is. 3 And everyone who has this hope in Him purifies himself just as He is pure.

John addressed the love GOD has for HIS children. GOD’S love extends to all people and HIS desire is for all to come to a saving knowledge of HIM through CHRIST. HIS desire is that all people will be restored to their rightful place as HIS children through the redemptive process which is provided by the shed blood of HIS ONLY SON JESUS. But Adam and Eve chose to eat from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil as recorded in Genesis 2:15-17:
15 The LORD God took the man and placed him in the garden of Eden to work it and watch over it. 16 And the LORD God commanded the man, “You are free to eat from any tree of the garden,[16] 17 but you must not eat[17] from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, for on the day you eat from it, you will certainly die.”[18]

Sin came into the world and its consequences are death. Fellowship was broken with GOD. Since individuals, Adam and Eve, sinned the decision to be saved from sin and death is up to each individual. Do you accept CHRIST as your SAVIOR or reject HIM?

Those who have accepted HIM as their SAVIOR are HIS children. Christians have this assurance by the indwelling HOLY SPIRIT at the moment they are saved. They have been transformed through the miracle of the rebirth. But what they will appear like when CHRIST returns for the second time, it is yet to be determined. Other scripture tells us that we will be like CHRIST and at HIS return we will receive our Glorified bodies like CHRIST’S resurrected body. Christians who have this hope are to remain focused on the promises of GOD and not deviate from the true gospel. GOD keeps HIS promise; just look at the promise HE made to Abraham, which extends to all Christians.

Every Christian has this hope. Hope includes moral and Spiritual development through the ongoing process of sanctification. Christians are grafted into the vine of CHRIST. It is through this vital connection that they receive their Spiritual nourishment, grow and mature into the image of CHRIST.

Are you walking in the light as HE is the light? If not, ask CHRIST to reveal to you what you need to do to walk as HE desires for you to walk. Do not be misled by false teaching or false notions or assumptions. Seek the truth and build a solid relationship with CHRIST. Walk in personal Spiritual freedom. You live and die as an individual. Do not let others cause you to miss the joy of walking in the light of GOD’S presence in your life. Blessings!!!

Bible Study - Freedom - Personal Checklist - Galatians 3 - July 10, 2011

Bible Study – Freedom – Personal Checklist – July 10, 2011
This is lesson two (2) in our series entitled “Freedom: Making it Personal.”
Our scripture is Galatians 3:1-3, 10-14, 19-26.

Grace versus legalism are issues the church has debated over the years. Grace does not give a Christian the right to do whatever he/she chooses to do that is contrary to GOD, it guarantees his/her citizenship in heaven and the opportunity to approach GOD and call HIM FATHER. GOD in HIS wisdom knew that Christians will not live the perfect life until they see JESUS or HE returns. Therefore, HE gives them grace. Grace is unmerited favor. Grave cannot be earned. It is a free gift which comes with salvation.

So why did GOD give us the Ten Commandments when HE knew that people cannot keep them to the letter or Spirit of the Law? In JESUS’ day, some religious people prided themselves in keeping the law and commandments. JESUS took their pride of keeping the law and commandants to a higher level when HE said if a person so much as looked upon a woman with lust in his heart, he had committed adultery or hate was equivalent to murder. What a person harbors in his/her heart is of equivalent value to GOD as what he/she does outwardly. When the heart is in right standing with GOD, his/her actions will honor GOD.

Let’s consider faith/grace versus legalism/law. Living by faith equals Spiritual freedom whereas living by the law equals bondage. I think of the law as a big bolder resting on a person’s head forcing him/her to obey it and all the rules that go along with it. There is no freedom. The law is static and rigid. A person can never be justified by strictly obeying the law. The law is rigid and does not forgive. It is static and has no provision to forgive even when just a small part of it is broken. A person can say to the law, “But please forgive me, I will never break it again.” The law says, “No, you have broken me therefore you are guilty.”

The law becomes the master of those who follow the law. CHRIST said in Matthew 5:17 - 17 "Do not think that I came to destroy the Law or the Prophets. I did not come to destroy but to fulfill. Who is your master - the law or CHRIST?

The law is static and rigid whereas faith in CHRIST is dynamic. A person cannot build a relationship with the law but he/she can build a relationship with GOD through CHRIST. GOD gives grace to all who accept CHRIST as their SAVIOR. Grace does not abandon the law but it reveals a Christians walk and thought life. The law highlights areas where Christians need to confess and areas that need attention to help with gown and mature Spiritually. The HOLY SPIRIT within will help those who yield their will to GOD and seek to grow and mature Spiritually through their relationship with CHRIST. The law cannot forgive whereas the shed blood of CHRIST forgives, cleanses, set those who have faith in HIM free from the bondage of sin, justifies them before GOD and makes them righteous. This is something that is impossible for the law to do.

The Apostle Paul was writing to the Galatians. He does not mince words. He began his letter by addressing the problems in their church in Galatians 1:6-7: I am astonished that you are so quickly deserting the ONE WHO called you by the grace of CHRIST and are turning to a different gospel – which is really no gospel at all. Evidently some people are throwing you into confusion and are trying to pervert the gospel of CHRIST.

What was going on in Galatia? The Judaizers had moved into Galatia. They were telling the Gentiles that in order for them to become fully saved, they had to also be circumcised and obey the Jewish laws and commandments.

This issue had come up during Paul’s early ministry to the Gentiles and a council convened in Jerusalem to discuss the conversion of non-Jews to Christianity. The Council endorsed Paul’s gospel of grace. We must keep in mind that Paul was trained as a Pharisee under the tutor-ledge of famous Jewish teacher Gamaliel. Paul was very upset with the Christians in Galatia. Let’s explore.

Let’s read Galatians 3:1-3:
Justification through Faith
1 You foolish Galatians! Who has hypnotized you,[1] before whose eyes Jesus Christ was vividly portrayed[2] as crucified? 2 I only want to learn this from you: Did you receive the Spirit by the works of the law or by hearing with faith?[3] 3 Are you so foolish? After beginning with the Spirit, are you now going to be made complete by the flesh?[4]

Paul’s frustration was very evident in our scripture when he addressed the Galatians Christians as “foolish.” He wanted to shock them into realizing that they had been duped and deceived. They knew the truth of salvation by faith in CHRIST but now they embraced a false gospel. Paul asked them questions in an effort to get them to realize what they had done. Did they receive salvation by obeying the law or by faith in CHRIST? Did they think after they received CHRIST by faith that the law would perfect them? NO!!! It was impossible for the law to do anything to help you obediently live each day. The law has no power; it is the HOLY SPIRIT within that gives a Christian the power to live obediently. A Christian is grafted into the vine of CHRIST and HIS nourishment and vitality flows from HIM to Christians who are the branches. It is the HOLY SPIRIT living in you that leads and guides you each moment of your daily life. How stupid can you be!!! Ignorance is one thing but stupidity is another. You have been blinded, led astray and don’t even realize it but you have taught and know the true gospel.

Let’s read Galatians 3:4-9: (Background for continuity and leads into verse 10.)
4 Did you suffer so much for nothing—if in fact it was for nothing? 5 So then, does God[5] supply you with the Spirit and work miracles among you by the works of the law or by hearing with faith?[6]6 Just as Abraham believed God, and it was credited to him for righteousness,[7] 7 so understand that those who have faith are Abraham’s sons. 8 Now the Scripture foresaw that God would justify the Gentiles by faith and foretold the good news to Abraham, saying, All the nations will be blessed in you.[8] 9 So those who have faith are blessed with Abraham, who had faith.[9]

Let’s read Galatians 3: 10-14:
Law and Promise
10 For all who [rely on]* the works of the law are under a curse, because it is written: Cursed is everyone who does not continue doing everything written in the book of the law.[10] 11 Now it is clear that no one is justified before God by the law, because the righteous will live by faith.[11] 12 But the law is not based on faith; instead, the one who does these things will live by them.[12] 13 Christ has redeemed us from the curse of the law by becoming a curse for us, because it is written: Cursed is everyone who is hung on a tree.[13] 14 The purpose was that the blessing of Abraham would come to the Gentiles in Christ Jesus, so that we could receive the promise of the Spirit through faith.

Paul used Old Testament scripture to make his point that a person cannot obey the law well enough for him/her to be acceptable to GOD. GOD demands perfection and one blemish cannot be repaired by continuing to observe the law once broken.

The operative words are “does not continue doing everything.” The law has no power. The only power of the law is in the hands of those who enforce the law, religious leaders on earth, a person’s conscience and GOD. The law itself is designed to give those under the law guidelines to know when they are not measuring up to GOD’S standard. However, once any portion of that standard is broken then the law does not provide forgiveness. Living by the law does not require faith, it requires the human will. The human will is faulty and weak. GOD knew that and provided eternal salvation through faith in CHRIST for all who believe in HIM through forgiveness and grace. GOD imputed righteousness to Abraham because of his faith and not by observing the law, ceremonies or rituals.

The Jewish Talmud speaks of four (4) modes of capital punishment – Stoning, burning, beheading and strangling. Once the convicted criminal had been executed, the corpse would be placed on a piece of timber (tree) to show that justice had been carried out. The Jewish court accused JESUS of blasphemy, which was punishable by death. The Roman method of capital punishment was crucifixion on a cross (tree/timber). CHRIST was crucified on a piece of timber, the cross. According to Jewish law CHRIST was cursed. Yet, CHRIST was sinless and innocent. HE became cursed for the sins of mankind. HE gave HIS life for all who would believe in HIM by faith. Paul makes this clear in 2 Corinthians 5:21:

21 He (GOD) made the One (JESUS) who did not know sin to be sin for us (Christians), so that we might become the righteousness of God in Him.

Let’s read Galatians 3:15-18:
15 Brothers, I’m using a human illustration.[14] No one sets aside even a human covenant that has been ratified, or makes additions to it. 16 Now the promises were spoken to Abraham and to his seed. He does not say “and to seeds,” as though referring to many, but and to your seed,[15] referring to one, who is Christ. 17 And I say this: the law, which came 430 years later, does not revoke a covenant that was previously ratified by God,[16] so as to cancel the promise. 18 For if the inheritance is from the law, it is no longer from the promise; but God granted it to Abraham through the promise.

In verse 16, Paul used the “his seed”, which is singular. The “Seed” To which Paul was referring was CHRIST. CHRIST’S earthly heritage is from Abraham.

The promise was given directly to Abraham by GOD not through a mediator. The promise of salvation through faith in CHRIST was for Jews, Gentiles and all people who come to HIM. The law convicts of sin but also imprisons all who live under the law. It holds them hostage with no provision to escape. If the law could bring salvation there would be no need for CHRIST. Faith in CHRIST brings forgiveness for all sins past, present, future, eternal life, and rebirth into GOD’S family, citizenship in heaven and grace. This was sealed by the promise GOD made to Abraham. In essence, all Christians are descendants of Abraham.

Let’s read Galatians 3:19-26:
The Purpose of the Law19 Why the law then? It was added because of transgressions (sins) until the Seed (JESUS) to whom the promise was made would come. [The law]* was ordered (by GOD) through angels by means of a mediator (Moses). 20 Now a mediator is not for just one person, but God is one (GOD is ONE and ordered that the law be given to apply to all people. For all have sinned and fallen short of the glory of GOD, therefore all of mankind needs a SAVIOR. The law has NO power to save only to show that a person needs salvation.) . 21 (Since GOD ordered the law,) Is the law therefore contrary to God’s promises? Absolutely not! For if a law had been given that was able to give life (redeem from the consequences of sin and eternal death, make a person righteous and have the power to provide the miracle of rebirth), then righteousness would certainly be by the law. 22 But the Scripture (The law) has imprisoned everything under sin’s power,[17] so that the promise by faith in Jesus Christ might be given to those who believe. 23 Before this faith came, we were confined under the law, imprisoned until the coming faith (in CHRIST) was revealed (After HIS life, death, resurrection and ascension which confirmed that HE was the promised Messiah.). 24 The law, then, was our guardian[18] until Christ, so that we could be justified (just-as-if-I-never-sinned) by faith. 25 But since that faith has come, we are no longer under a guardian,[19] 26 for you are all sons of God through faith (The miracle of rebirth) in Christ Jesus. (Spiritual Son-ship/Daughter-ship can only come through the miracle of rebirth as the result of faith in CHRIST and never by trying to obey the law.)

Paul posed the question, “If GOD’S intent was for salvation to come only through faith in CHRIST (The Seed) why did GOD add the law? The law was a place holder for those who looked forward, by faith, to the coming on the Promised Messiah and the cross. Since, JESUS gave HIS life upon the cross Christians have looked back, by faith, to the cross. The law was added to reveal to all people GOD’S ideal for them - Those who were looking forward to the cross, as well as, those looking back to the cross. Faith is the requirement – faith to the coming of the Messiah and faith that the Messiah has come and fulfilled HIS mission of conquering sin and death through HIS shed blood. The proof is HIS resurrection – Mission accomplished!!!

The law was HIS way of revealing to humans how much all humans fall short of meeting HIS ideal of perfection. In JESUS day, some people implied that they kept the law but JESUS revealed a deeper knowledge of GOD’S measure of keeping the law. There is the letter of the law and the Spirit of the law. As stated earlier, JESUS said if a man lusts after a woman it is the same as adultery or if you hate a person, it is the same a murder.

The more a person tries to live by the law the more he/she sees how far short he/she misses the mark. As Christians get to know GOD more through CHRIST, the more they see how much they miss the mark and how much they need CHRIST and grace.

CHRIST frees Christians from the bondage of the law. CHRIST did not come to do away with the law but to fulfill the law. HE lived the perfect sinless life which made HIM the perfect sacrifice for the sins of mankind. All Christians were bought with a price and made free from sin and death through HIS shed blood.

How do we know that CHRIST paid the price for our sins in full? GOD raised HIM from the dead. HE conquered death which is the consequences of sin. HE lives and so do all who believe in HIM. Rejoice in your salvation and freedom in CHRIST. You are free to obediently serve a risen SAVIOR and a caring, awesome, loving GOD. To all who believe GOD gives grace to live each day so they will know that HE loves them and desires for them to run the race of life and cross the finish line to have HIM waiting to say “Well Done Good and Faithful Servant. Enter into heaven for eternity.”

Hebrews 11:1 – 40: (Makes for interesting reading regarding those who practiced faith, including Abraham.)