I know full well this question cannot be fully answered to the satisfaction of discerning believers with one fell swoop, but it is my intention to begin to answer it. It is my belief, the New Testament not only encourages the fellowship of believers of Christ in diverse groups, it demands it. Continue Reading
In chapter 3 of the letter to the Galatians Paul starts getting into the meat and potatoes of his argument. Faith over works. Those in my faith-heritage may argue, no his point is faith over works of “the law”. This being a reference only to “old law” or Mosaic Law. But I think as we examine what exactly Paul is saying we will see a principle being taught that exceeds just arguing against circumcision and the Mosaic Law. Continue Reading
As we continue our examination of the book of Galatians bear in mind what it is Paul was upset at Peter about. Also in this chapter, Paul will begin his main argument. Pay close attention to his opening statements on the subject. Continue Reading
The first step in correcting a problem is admitting you have one. In the first twenty years of my Christian walk, you never would’ve convinced me that I was in the same boat the Galatians were in when Paul chose to write to them. Yet, that’s exactly where I was. Now it’s as if a veil has been lifted and I understand that salvation – justification in the eyes of God comes from grace through faith and not my own efforts to get everything right and shun everything that is wrong. Looking back at the book of Galatians and Romans now, I think “How could I not have seen this? The scriptures are so clear on the point.” Continue Reading
I have discovered over years of study, the problem with a Pharisaical mindset or system is multi-leveled. There’s no simple answer. There’s not one scripture to point to and say, “see that one proves the system is wrong”. When you try, basically the defender of the system will simply present a seemingly contradicting passage as proof that he is right. So learning the truth is sometimes a long and slow study. It requires an open heart and mind without the constant knee-jerk reactions that naturally occur when statements contradict your current theology. Continue Reading